The Ultraists: Riders of the PanCeltic Race - Cyclogeographies Vol. 3

With a varying route across the modern Celtic nations*, the PanCeltic Race is an annual ultra-distance cycle race that has a well-earned reputation for being one of the toughest events in the racing calendar. The 2024 edition was no exception, beginning with a 160km night trail around the Isle of Man. Following a ferry crossing back to England, the 2,295km route made its way up the west coast of Scotland before ending in Inverness. Whilst a handful of riders were competing for the win, most were aiming to make the finishers’ party and complete the course in less than 10 days.

Throughout the race, riders are required to be self-reliant and self-supported, and no outside assistance is permitted. Consequently, ultra-distance riders tend to be stoic types, less interested in the kit fellow riders use but happy to discuss in great detail strategies for finding sleeping spots, fuelling, and the avoidance of saddle sores.

These portraits were taken on the Isle of Man as riders relaxed and prepared for the time trial to begin. They form part of a larger project shot during the race, currently being edited and sequenced. Together they make up the third and fourth installments of my Cyclogeographies series - projects which document and explore themes around long-distance bike rides.

*Wales, Ireland, Scotland, Brittany, Cornwall, and the Isle of Man