Into the Dark
Info: Entries for this event open on Monday 20th October 2025 at 21:00.
| Entry Fee | €55.00 |
What is Into the Dark?
It’s a fun enduro mountain bike event that’s being piloted this year by Team Ballyhoura. 3 stages will be held in daylight (weather permitting) and 3 stages in darkness from the Ballinaboola car park, where 2nduro has run for the past few years. It’s a totally new format, aimed to be a bit of fun. Entries will be limited so, if you’re interested and can get your hands on some MTB lights, don’t delay when the entries are opened up!
Cool. When is it happening?
The event is planned for Saturday 8th of November. Registration will open at 1 pm, day stages open from 2 pm to 4 pm. After the first daylight (ish!) stages, there’s a break with some entertainment and refreshments provided before the stages in darkness open at 5 pm. All riders should to be back by 7 pm. There will be a small prizegiving ceremony to recognise the top riders overall in the male, female, ebike and u16 categories.
What equipment do I need?
Well, you’ll need the usual bike and safety equipment, ie full face helmet, back protector for youths, etc. for a Gravity / Grassroots Enduro plus a set of lights for the stages in the darkness.
When will entries open?
Entries will open on Monday 20th of October at 9 pm.
How much will it cost to enter?
As this is a fun event, it will cost just €55 to enter, the timing chip hire is €5, so that'll be a total of €60 for most unless you have your own timing chip. In addition we will provide hot food, that will be included in the entry fee and available at the interval between day and night stages.
For this you’ll get 6 timed stages and an opportunity to take part in a unique mountain bike event that runs into the dark. We’re also working on providing some entertainment in the race village!
Is there a cap on entries?
Yes, we’re planning to restrict the entries to lower than our typical events to ensure a great experience for all that sign, so if you’re interested don’t delay in getting your entry in.
How difficult will it be how many stages are there?
This event is not for beginners. However if you’ve competed in the 2nduro, Grassroots or Gravity events recently, then you will be capable of the event. Experience of riding in the dark will help!
Is this solo or 2nduro format?
This is a solo event.
Are e-bikes allowed?
Yes e-bikes are welcome along. There are no additional or different stages for e-bikes and we've included an e-bike category.
Can you repeat stages?
No, you need to complete the stages once only and in order from 1 to 6 as signposted to get a finish. You’ll get a chance to see your stage times (not positions) and compare them with your mates after the day stages, if you want to!
How many categories will there be?
As this is a fun event so we’re planning fewer categories - there will be prizes for 1st, 2nd and 3rd overall for male and female riders plus e-bike and under 16 category.
Will there be food available?
Yes you’ll be glad to know that, included in your entry fee we will be providing hot food at the event HQ. There should be time to have a break after the day stages and before the night stages.
How will the timing work?
Timing will be provided by Sportident, so you can hire a chip when you enter the event, similar to Grassroots and Gravity events. All chips need to be returned.
Important Safety Requirements - consistent with other Cycling Ireland Enduro MTB events:
- A full face helmet is required and must be worn at all times, including between stages.
- All under 18 riders must wear back protection.
- Inspections will be held to ensure compliance - penalties will be applied for non-adherance.
- A Cycling Ireland Limited Competition Race Licence is required to enter this event.
View the Event Disclaimer / Terms and Conditions.
View the Event Cancellation / Refund Policy.
This event offers the option to purchase XCover, so that participants may be able to get a refund if they are unable to attend due to unforeseen circumstances.
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