Winner, winner chicken dinner! For the second weekend in a row, the club had a member on the top step of the podium. This week it was the turn of Emmet Fennell who came home in the gold medal position in the B race at the CrossBarrs cyclo cross race. This was round 2 of the Munster League. St. Finbarrs CC were the host club and the race was held at a fantastic new venue in Novartis, Ringaskiddy. If ever there was a park designed for cyclocross, this was it. The course was fast and flowing with a mix of forestry, grassland, and off camber section and a set of steps.
Emmet's victory was all the more remarkable given this was his first cyclo cross race. Having trained hard for the Race Around Ireland, Emmet put his form to good use. Having opened a gap on the first lap, he put the hammer down on the second circuit to move out of sight of his pursuers. At the finish, the wining margin was an incredible 48 seconds. Dermot Brosnan also put in a great performance taking seventh place on the day. Dermot's performances are steadily improving and the podium certainly beckons. Brendan Coakley and Aidan O'Brien also pinned on the numbers and represented the club on the day. Unfortunately, Pat McHugh could not take his position on the start line due to illness. The next round takes place in Ennis on the 21st October.
The club cycle on Saturday morning was canceled due to the inclement weather. Club secretary Brian Atkinson was suited and booted, ready to tough out the elements, but he was over ruled by road captain Declan Brady. Never one to wilt from a challenge, Brian hit the road once he was sure Declan had gone back to sleep. Sunday morning saw a big group hit the road in glorious weather. The peloton headed for Leamlara and Carrigtwohill, stopping for coffee in Cobh Cross. Sinead Gray fell victim to a pick pocket while queuing for coffee. The culprit, who is known to gardai, returned the proceeds of his crime later in the day, when he realised the incident had been caught on camera. The cycle was quieter than usual, as club stalwart Bernard Burke is off on a sun holiday. In fairness to Bernard, he is keeping club members fully up to speed, and not an hour passes without a photo hitting the club Whatsapp group.
Club cycles continue on Saturday and Sundays. Details will be posted on club Facebook page. 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.
