Fwd: Over The Hill Cycling Club Notes 3rd November 2019

The past few weeks have been somber for club members following the tragic passing of two much loved members. Dave Bryan passed to his eternal reward in the last week of September. Dave was one of the strongest cyclists in the club, and many was the day he pushed some of the best to their limit. Dave was a farmer, and at busy times of the year would miss out on cycling. Dave could turn up after six or seven weeks off the bike, and keep pace with the fastest in the club. Dave was a soft spoken thorough gentleman who enjoyed his cycling, and the company on the road. Dave is survived by his wife Marie, also a club member. If there is any solace following Dave's passing, it is that Marie has continued to cycle and in doing so, keeps Dave's spirit alive. 

The passing of Simon Martin was a double blow to members. Simon was one of the most popular members of the club, and was also a thorough gentleman. Simon was a tech guru and was happiest capturing fantastic photographs on club spins with his selfie stick. Simon who originally hailed from Cavan absolutely loved his time on the bike. Simon's company on a group spin was a real treat. There was a large group from the club traveled to Kingscourt for Simon's funeral. Simon's wife Sinead, is also a club member, and her strength at a most difficult time was an inspiration to all members. 

Following some dark days, members have been active over the past few weeks. Brendan Coakley, Pat McHugh, Tyrone Kennedy, Mike Gowen and Peter Power have been ripping it up in the Munster League Cyclocross races over the past few weekends. Joe O'Leary, Aislinn Hurley, and, Peter Curtin parked the bikes for a few weeks and put in very impressive performances in the Dublin City Marathon. Last Saturday's cycle was canceled due to a yellow weather warning. There were two groups on the road Sunday as the spin headed for Rathcormac and on to Cappagh Cross. After a tricky descent to Ballyhooly, it was on to Glanworth, before turning for Fermoy. Dave Keane drove it on like a man late for mass, before the coffee stop. The final few kilometers back to the village were cycled at a relaxed pace.