On Sunday, September 22, the first Fermanagh Endurance Adventure Race (FEAR) will take place, starting and finishing at Derrygonnelly Community Centre.

Organised by Fermanagh District Council in partnership with seven of Fermanagh’s Emergency Services, FEAR will give competitors the chance to run, cycle and kayak some of the most dramatic, breathtaking and remote scenery in Fermanagh.

FEAR has attracted local athletes such as Gerry Murphy and Robbie Bryson, both gold medal winners at the recent 2013 World Police & Fire Games, as well as athletes from all over Ireland. Adventure races by their very nature are a long way removed from a little jog in the park and FEAR is no exception. Competitors will be pushed to their limits along a carefully selected route that spans some of West Fermanagh’s most iconic and challenging landscapes, including the stunning Magho Cliffs and the rugged beauty of the Big Dog Forest.

There are two routes of varying difficulties to suit competitors of different fitness levels - 73km long race versus 37.5km short race. The race also includes a special ‘Emergency Services Trophy’ event, to acknowledge the role that Fermanagh’s Emergency Services are playing in organising the event.

Participants will have the opportunity to compete for cash prizes as well as one of a kind, handcrafted trophies designed by local bespoke furniture design company, Design Onion.

Fermanagh District Council hopes to make FEAR an annual event, attracting top endurance athletes from all over to one of the must do events of the year. So if you haven’t signed up you can start training for next year’s event.

For further information about FEAR visit www.FEARmanagh.com or contact Joanne Cunningham, Fermanagh District Council on +44 (0) 28 6632 3110. The closing date for online entries is September 19 or you are welcome to sign up at the event (Friday 4pm-9pm or Saturday 6.30am-7.30am).