iROC and the Durham Dales on the Multisport Map

Rob Howard / 01.05.2009

It’s not easy to launch a new multi-sport event, especially with the calendar now so crowded with one-day races, let alone to find a new concept or a new venue, yet the first Inov-8 iROC succeeded in all three.

The reaction and feedback to event organisers (and on our forum) have been overwhelmingly positive and iROC will be back again next year, probably in the same venue and with the expectation of a much increased entry.

The venue at the old Lafarge cement works worked well, even allowing the planners to build brand new singletrack routes, which were a great hit with the riders and Race Director Shane Ohly says there are new activities and new areas that can be opened up in future. “Our main aim in the first year was get the quality of the racing right and I think we succeeded in that and have a great platform for future events,” he said. “Heather Dawe and Steve Birkinshaw from Team Inov-8 really helped with this, fine tuning the courses to make them that extra bit special.”

“Of the 6 events I think the night mountain biking and fell race were the highlights, everyone was buzzing after those and I must admit I was relieved when they were over and everyone was safely back. It’s hard to set night courses for racers of very different standards but we got it right. “

“We are currently reviewing what to do next year and I think we can improve the event village, making it much more family friendly and adding more commentary and music – but not the Saturday night bands! That was one idea which didn’t work out too well.”

The race was the first of its kind in Weardale and took place with the backing of a local company (Inov-8 are based at nearby Crook) and the support of the County Durham Tourism Partnership, who are keen to welcome more outdoor activities and visitors to the Durham Dales. The surrounding area offers many opportunities for running and riding, notably the trails and facilities in Hamsterly Forest ,which is fast becoming a mountain biking centre of excellence. (Having stopped off to visit Durham city on my way to iROC I can recommend this too if you can fit it in while you’re in the area.)

There are links below to some of the places you can visit in Durham and you can see the full results from iROC on the event website at www.iroc-race.com. Details of the 2010 iROC will be released later in the year.

Outdoor Activies in County Durham

County Durham Tourism
Hamsterley Trailblazers
North Pennines AONB
The Weardale Way
MTb Opportunities In County Durham