The Hillfest Duathlon took last Saturday 2nd June. The duathlon was a joint promotion between Over The Hill Cycling Club, and Watergrasshill Athletics Club. The event consisted of a 3km run, a 16km cycle, and to finish, a 5km run. The grey start to the morning cleared just as race director Nigel Carroll gave his race briefing. The event attracted some of the best athletes in Cork, while also catering for athletes looking to get a taster of the sport. Jamses Mintern was the first home in a blistering time of 48 minutes, 27 seconds. James was followed home by John O'Connell and Liam O'Connor. Ashleigh Byrne O'Brien was the first female home, with Eileen Duff and Linda O'Connor rounding out the podium.
Alan Heffernan was the first club member home, breaking the hour mark to take 10th place overall. The club was also represented by Aislinn Hurley, Eleanor Fennessy, Joanne McHugh, Julian Boeg, Margaret O'Connor, and Stephen O'Connell. The event was a huge success and was thoroughly enjoyed by the athletes and spectators alike. A massive thank you to all those who made the event a success. The organising committee can be very proud of the event.
Last Wednesday night saw the club TT on the route to Killydonoghue. Kevin Fennessy was the quickest on the night, pipping Jimmy Condon to the gold medal. Conor MacAree, Fred Burdett, Paul McGonigle, Richard O'Brien, and Stephen O'Connell all posted very impressive times. Eleanor Fennessy was the quickest lady, followed closely by Margaret O'Connor.
The first group left the village at 7am on Sunday morning and headed for Dungarvan. The tail wind on the road east made for very fast speeds. Pat McHugh drove the peloton on, ably helped by Brian Atkinson, Conor Keane, Jeremy Duane, and, Peter Power. The second group left the village at 9am for a 50km spin. Buoyed by her strong showing in the duathlon the previous day, Margaret O'Connor was in top form. She had Ellmary Forde and Cathy O'Sulllivan for company. Mike Gowen was super strong also. The breezy conditions were testing, but did not stop members enjoying the cycle.
Club cycles continue each Saturday and Sunday. The club is always delighted to welcome new members. On Sunday mornings at 9am, all levels of cyclists are catered for, with the group split into 3 levels. New members are very welcome to turn up and cycle provided they have a racing bike, a helmet, and are over 18. For further information, check out our club Facebook page or contact us by email info@overthehillcc.com. Details of cycles will be posted on club Facebook page.
