Write a commentThe long awaited Giro d'Italia reaches the outskirts of Newry this Sunday the 11th of May with The Mountain House and Lislea being the closest points to Newry.
The Giro d'Italia is one of the world's most prestigious sporting events, and is one of the European cycling calendar's three Grand Tours, along with the Tour de France and Vuelta a España.
The race is held primarily in Italy, over a three-week period in May and June each year, however every other year its opening stages are held outside its home country of Italy. This year we host the opening stages and on Day three the Giro travels from Armagh through Richhill, Hamiltonsbawn, Markethill, Keady, Newtownhamilton, Belleek, Lislea and Forkhill en route to Dublin.
Official Spectating areas will be at:
The Common's, Newtownhamilton The Village Green, Belleek
The Mountain House, Belleek Lislea Community Centre, Lislea The Forge, Forkhill
Fun activities will take place at the various spectating areas to keep the whole family entertained.
It is estimated that the cyclists will travel through Newtownhamilton at approximately 1pm and will cross the border at Carrickasticken, Forkhill at approximately 1.35pm.
Roads will be closed from 10am - 2pm to facilitate the cycle race.
If you wish to spectate and experience the Giro d'Italia travel through our local area it is adviseable to get to one of the spectating areas as early as you can.
For further details see www.discovernorthernireland.com
The PSNI in Armagh and Newry have set out some guidelines to keep disruption to an absolute minimum.
Superintendent Simon Walls, local commander for the event, said: "We are delighted to welcome the renowned Giro d'Italia on to our roads and we have been involved in months of planning with partners to ensure the event runs smoothly and safely.
"We want everyone to be able to enjoy the spectacle of this world renowned race and are asking for the support of the local community to ensure the event passes without incident.
"Roads in Armagh through Loughgall, Richhill, Hamiltonsbawn, Markethill, Tassagh, Keady, Newtownhamilton and Forkhill will be closed on a phased basis from between 7am and 10am on Sunday morning until approximately 2pm. More specific detail about closure times has been circulated to householders by the event organisers, NITB. It is essential that all roads are clear from vehicles and that no one parks on any of the planned routes. Any car found parked on the route will be moved by police.
"It is also important to note that only cyclists involved in the race will be allowed on the planned route. These roads are not open to cyclists who are not racing.
"Our advice to those who wish to see the race is, make plans early, leave early and use public transport where possible.
"We will do our utmost to keep disruption to an absolute minimum however anyone travelling on the road network should allow extra time for their journey.
"We hope everyone makes the most of the full programme of events over the weekend.”
