This week we are appealing for help in locating a lost bandana. Five club members, Jeremy Duane, Stephen O'Connell, Peter Power, Jimmy Condon, and, Dermot Brosnan recently took part in the West Cork Peaks Challenge. This is one of the toughest sportives in the country, mainly due to the route which sends riders over the legendary Priest's Leap, ranked as one of the hardest climbs in Ireland. This year, the sportive tackled Priest's Leap from the southern side. Riders also visited the Top of Coom, Mouth of the Glen, Keimaneigh, and the Mealagh Valley. The lads had a great if tough day out, with Jimmy putting all comers to the sword on the fearsome Priest's Leap. Unfortunately, there was some sad news to report on the day. Club stalwart, Dermot Brosnan misplaced his much loved bandana. Dermot was said to be distraught, so much so that he couldn't eat for a number of days following. Having worked so hard on his Marco Pantani look, Dermot can't pedal his Bianchi without the bandana. While club members have offered to buy a replacement, it just wouldn't be the same.Please keep your eyes peeled on the hedgerows of West Cork.
Last week saw the club represented in the Race Around Ireland. The Race Around Ireland is a 2,150 km non-stop cycling event. People come from all over the world to take part in what has been listed as one of the “World’s Toughest Endurance Events “. Club members, Brendan Coakley, Colin O'Brien and Emmet Fennell competed in the team event. The lads put in a huge effort and completed the race in an incredible time of 70hrs 23 mins. The lads average speed over the course was north of 30kms per hour. Their achievement was only possible with the assistance of a fantastic support crew. A special word of mention to Declan Brady who commented that he never felt so rested, relaxed, and refreshed after the race. Donncha Cutriss competed in the solo race. Unfortunately, Donncha had to pull out of the race with over half the course completed. Donncha's exertions earlier in the summer when he completed the Race Across America caught up with him. No doubt he will bounce back stronger to tackle his next adventure.
The ladies beginners group continued last Monday evening at Kartworld. This is part of the Women in Sport Initiative. The objectives of the Women in Sport programe were to raise the overall physical activity levels among women and to support women's roles within sports organisations. The ladies had a fantastic evening and a re looking forward to improving their cycling skills and fitness. A big thank you to Joanne, Mike, Simon, and, Donal for their assistance. Joanne and a number of the ladies ventured out on the road for a cycle last Saturday evening. The cycle was most enjoyable, but there was a minor incident with a motorist on the Glenville road. The motorist, who only recently returned to driving, was said to be shaken but unhurt.
The Saturday spin headed for Youghal and Tallow. The group made good progress, wind assisted as far as Youghal. The climb to the Half Way Bar was quickly crested before a stop for coffee in Tallow. The return to Watergrasshill was full gas, with the group averaging 29km/hr. Sunday morning saw big numbers out again. Cyclists split into three groups and headed for Midleton. The coffee stop was at Cobh Cross. It was great to see road captain Mick O'Leary out. Mick had taken the summer off the bike to work on his sun tan. Cyclists returned to the village via Leamlara. Chapeau to Eleanor Fennessy who completed the Lost Sheep Triathlon in Kenmare last weekend. A shout out also to club secretary Brian Atkinson, whose beloved Dubs collected Sam Maguire for the fourth year in a row. Brian could be heard belting out Molly Malone at 5pm last Sunday evening. Next weekend sees big numbers from the club head to Glengarriff for the Rebel Tour.. The event which is organised by Cork Sports partnership, will take in some of the most spectacular scenery the Beara peninsula has to offer. Riders have 2 routes to choose from, the160km Rebel Challenge and the 85km Rebel Rider.
Wednesday evening cycles continue departing Watergrasshill at 7pm. All are welcome. Club cycles will continue on Saturday and Sundays. Details will be posted on club Facebook page. New members are always welcome. 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.
