The camps southern Spain have proven very popular and the December camp is never a full-gas effort. It’s a case of steady miles in the sun and a break from the Irish winter

Two of Ireland’s top coaches – Matt Teggart and Barry Monaghan, both former international riders – are teaming up to offer Irish cyclists the chance to take in a winter training camp in Spain just before Christmas.

They are being aided this time around by current top C1 riders Gareth O’Neill and John Buller, who will lead some of the rides. This year’s training week goes ahead after the runaway success of last year’s camps.

“We’re trying to give the ‘pro cyclist’ experience to everyone,” said Teggart. “So it’s about going out to Calpe, getting the miles in, getting guidance from myself and Barry and also from Gareth and John.

“But it’s also a break and a bit of fun; a bit of a getaway from the Irish winter, mixing and training with other cyclists and just getting a quality week in on the bike. Everyone really benefitted it from it last year.

“The December camp is a little more relaxed. It’s focused on enjoyment, steady miles, and good company, rather than full-gas efforts every day.”

While Monaghan was an international rider in the 1990s and has been a cycling coach for many years, Teggart has more recently hung up his racing wheels, though he has also been coaching for several years now.

During his racing days he was a Rás Tailteann stage winner and yellow jersey, held the climbers’ jersey at Tour de l’Avenir, won the sprints classification at Tour of Britain and rode at UCI Continental level; also representing Ireland many times, to Europeans and Worlds level.

For his part, Buller has raced in France for several seasons, has been Irish criterium champion twice and both he and O’Neill have won many of the biggest races in the country. O’Neill, whose winning run continued this year on the home scene, is also a qualified nutritionist.

Teggart told stickybottle the depth of experience all four had built up means they can offer advice on the week-long camp in Spain that all the riders can continue to use in their racing and training long term. “But there will also be plenty of sunshine and coffee stops as well,” he said.

The week away in Calpe is from December 1st to 6th, staying at Hotel Ifach – half board, with breakfast and dinner included.

The trip – which costs £699 – includes:

Airport transfers to and from the hotel for all guests

Five days of guided riding with experienced ride leaders and groups suited to every fitness level

Some of the best training roads in the world, often alongside professional riders

Full mechanical cover and support car on every ride. Assistance with bike hire, if needed

Morning pilates sessions to loosen up before each ride and evening workshops, chats and special guests

Massage options available throughout the week

For all queries, you can contact Teggart on mattyteggart@sky.com.