Midleton was the destination last Sunday, as two teams from the club ventured east to take part in the annual Earthquake Challenge. The event consisted of a 6 person team time trial over a tough 70 km route. The route headed east to Youghal into a strong headwind. Turning at the end of the bypass, the wind helped cyclists over the climb to the Halfway Bar before the fast descent into Tallow. Another climb followed to Leahy’s Open Farm followed by a flowing descent into Dungourney. The route then headed for the finish line in Midleton. There was also a sportif over the same route.
The much vaunted A squad from the club were expected to break all sorts of records on the day. The route had been cycled so many time since Christmas, the bicycles could have made their way around by themselves. However, the favourites tag bore heavily on the six lads, Emmet, Colin, Dermot, Jimmy, Nigel, and Peter P. They were firmly put in their place by the B squad who ripped up the course. Big congratulations to Alan Heffernan, Brendan Coakley, Mick Gowen, Pat McHugh, Peter Curtin, and, Stephen O’Connell. The A squad did report two punctures. When asked, they were unable to produce the punctured tubes. A stewards enquirey into the late inclusion of super sub Pat McHugh was thrown out. The club was also represented in the sportif on the day.
Saturday saw a big group leave the village. Members were itching to hit the tarmac following the recent poor weather. Brian Atkinson and Declan Brady led the group north heading for Kilworth, Mountain Barrack and Mitchelstown. The route home took in Glanworth and Ballyhooley. We are sad to report some of our members came under attack while stopped for a nature call. Club secretary, Brian Atkinson came under sustained snowball fire. Luckily there were no injuries after the ambush. Gardai are on the lookout for two cranks.
The Sunday spin saw four dedicated club members hit the road. Conor MacAree, Jerry Fitzgerald, John D’arcy, and Richie White kept the flag flying.
The club was represented by Brendan Coakley at the recent Lacey Cup in Tralee. The Lacey Cup is the season opener for racing in Munster. The race always attracts a big entry of the best racing cyclists in Munster. Conditions on the day were no for the faint hearted, with snow still lying on the ground following storm Emma. Brendan put in a huge ride to finish in the main bunch.
Turbo Training concludes this Thursday 15th March 2018 in the First Fruit Art’s Centre Watergrasshill. The cost is € 5 per session. 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, all levels of cyclists are catered for, with the group split into 3 levels. Sunday morning spins leave Watergrasshill Village at 0900 hrs. 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.
