CLUB NEWS

The first group on the road participated in ‘ The Vee Challenge’ a 130km Route which departed from Youghal and traveled on to Tallow and Lismore before taking in the ascent of the Vee from Lismore and descending into Clogheen before climbing the Vee again via the ‘Sheep’s Pass’, then heading for the food stop on the road to Cappoquin at the Cats Bar. Refueled the route traveled down to Cappoquin and then passed by the Blackwater taking in the beautiful Dromana drive, Villarstown, Aglish, Clashmore and Piltown before heading for the coast and the final sting in the tail around Monatray which offered

spectacular views of Youghal town. The first of this group arrived back at 2.30pm, very satisfied with their spin.

The second group participated in ‘The Vee Ascent’ a 90km Route which also departed from Youghal.

This route covered most of the roads that the Vee Challenge incorporated with the participants climbing the Vee as far as Glenaknockaun before turning back right for Mellary and heading for the food stop on the road to Cappoquin at the Cats Bar. Refueled this group also traveled down to Cappoquin and then passed by the Blackwater taking in the beautiful Dromana drive, Villarstown, Aglish, Clashmore and Piltown before diverting back onto the main road and home to Youghal. The first of this group arrived back at 3.00 pm and were also very satisfied with their spin.

With the two groups returning between 2.30 and 4 pm, an enjoyable selection of food, cake and cup of coffee was appreciated by all after their challenging spins which all took place in the comfort of the Youghal G.A.A complex.

The club would like to give special thanks to all the people who helped to organize and run the event on the day and in particular to the following parties:

- Cognex, who were the Sportive sponsor for the running of this annual sportive.

- Youghal G.A.A Club for the use of their fantastic facilities.

- The Cats Bar, Mellary, Cappoquin for the Tea, Coffee and the use of their facilities.

- The Village Greengrocer, Castlemartyr for the sponsored food and water.

- Cara Ambulance Services for the well used on the day Medical / Emergency Services.

- The Club Members Wife’s, Partner’s, families & friends for all their work on the day with the marshalling and more importantly the refreshments !!.

- Harrington’s Bakery, Youghal for the sponsorship of the cakes.

- Brookes Super Valu, Youghal for the sponsored food and water.

- Local media and photographers who covered the event.

There was a fantastic turnout on the day from most of the local cycling clubs in the area as well as some cyclists from West Cork, Waterford, Kerry, Clare, Limerick, Dublin, Northern Ireland and England. Thanks very much too all that participated and we hope to see ye all for a bigger and longer Tour next year. Photos of this year’s event can now be seen on our club website ( address below ).

Weekend Spins.

As you are all well aware by now, there is a weekly spin every Sunday morning at 8.00 am sharp leaving from Moby Dicks Pub by the Clock Gate. This spin which runs on various routes every week usually takes between 4 to 5 hours ( weather permitting ) and covers on average between 80 to 120km ( 55 to 75 miles ). The pace is comfortable and we usually stop half way around for a coffee or tea.

A second group also goes on a weekly spin every Sunday morning at 10.00am sharp leaving from Moby Dicks Pub by the Clock Gate. This spin which runs on various routes every week usually takes around 2 hours to complete and covers on average between 50 to 60km ( 35 to 45 miles ). The pace is again very comfortable. This is an idle group for anyone interested in taking up the sport.

New members or visitors to the area are always welcome. If you have any questions about the club or attending one of our weekend spins, please contact our Club Secretary Jonathan at 086-8563292 for details. See you all Sunday Morning !!. Until next week, safe cycling !!.