Pedal into the summer
By Liudmyla Bortok
Bikes, fresh air, and new friends — that’s what the Cork Cycling Festival is all about.
This year’s event runs from Wednesday 16 to Sunday 20 July, with five days of free, friendly, and fun-filled cycling.
Whether you’re young or old, fast or slow, there’s something for everyone. You don’t need to be a pro — just bring your curiosity and a sense of adventure.
One person who brings that spirit to life is Katie Rowland, one of the Cork Cycling Festival’s organisers.
A florist by trade, Katie gave up work three years ago to care full-time for her 93-year-old mother.
“I was just down at the church doing the flowers this morning,” she said with a smile. “It’s a beautiful job, even when it’s busy.”
Katie’s journey back to Cork was a long one. She spent 20 years abroad living in Switzerland and France, working at one point with the United Nations, before settling down and raising a family.
She said: “I’ve been back nine years this August, and I really appreciate being home.”
It wasn’t until 2021, during COVID, that she bought her first bike: “I’d been thinking about it anyway, and the lockdown gave me that final push. I got an electric bike, and I’ve loved it ever since.”
Since taking up cycling, Katie’s world has opened up in more ways than one: “I’ve made so many new friends, a whole new circle. My close friends don’t cycle, so I’ve found a second gang. We go out a few times a week. You just have to know the safe routes.”
She’s noticed the city is improving for cyclists too. “There are more lanes now, and it does feel safer. “I still prefer to cycle with others — it’s more fun and more visible — but it’s definitely getting better.”
Katie has ideas for making Cork even more bike-friendly: “I’d love to see more places to park your bike safely. Like a proper car park, but for bikes — I’d pay for that! I’d also love those little steps at traffic lights they have in Amsterdam, so shorter people like me don’t have to hop off every time,” she laughs, but it’s a serious point.
“People say they don’t see cyclists — but I do. They’re everywhere. You just have to look.”
As for the festival, Katie’s in it for the joy. “We never know how many people will come. But it’s always lovely. Families come along, even older people. One woman is 75 and still cycles with us!”
It’s all volunteer-run, with the support of local sponsors who provide everything from free talks to snacks — and even a swim in Carrignavar.
She said: “Come along. You need to see the places outside of Cork City that are beautiful, that you wouldn't see in a car. Even if you haven’t cycled in years. You just need a bike — and maybe a bit of sunshine.”
The festival is free to the public, welcoming all ages and walks of life. To find out more about the Cork Cycling Festival visit corkcyclingfestival.com, email corkcyclingfestival@gmail.com or find them on Facebook.