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Business as usual for the Island Wheelers

Wednesday, 18 January 2012

Last weekend saw the Island Wheelers do what they do best, ride their bikes.
On Saturday it was business as usual for the Island Wheelers with a number of groups hitting the roads.
Those who braved the initial chilly start to the day were soon rewarded with a fine winter's day when the sun eventually graced the roads with a few warm rays.
For some out on Saturday, it was about keeping the momentum going; pedalling that bit harder to try and regain the strength that once was there before the winter.
Without racing all winter, the strength and speed that once inhabited the road racing cyclists' legs has all but disappeared; now labouring over hills that once seemed effortless.
Or, as the case for an eager couple of Wheelers on Saturday, failing to catch a tractor only a 100 or so metres up the road; even after a considerable effort was put in.
Although they didn't get the comfort of sitting in the tractors slipstream this time they weren't too concerned as they know that in the coming months that strength will re-emerge, and the next time the chase won't pose any difficulty.
One step backwards, two steps forward can more often than not seem to sum it up at this time of year.
Speed may have been diminished over the winter months, however, the bond and desire only strengthens, and, by the time the racing season starts, speed and mental attitude will be there, as will the results.
Last Sunday saw the start of the reliability trial season with Apollo CT hosting the opening event.
A reliability trial is not a race, but a fast paced ride that has been strategically placed just before the start of the racing season to allow riders to test their legs after winters training.
In total an impressive nine Island Wheelers made the trip over to Lurgan on Sunday morning, signifying the intention amongst the Wheelers to make 2012 their most successful racing season to date.
A big well done to all the Wheelers who took part, let's hope even more make it out to the Island Wheelers reliability trial on the 5th February.
The usual Sunday club run was also on as normal for those who did not wish to take part in the reliability trial. The Island Wheelers 'Train' covered approximately 60 miles and plenty of craic too!
The Island Wheelers annual pub quiz is this Friday, 20th January, and will be held at 8.30pm in Jagger Bar, Dungannon.
There are a number of top prizes to be won and everyone is welcome; cyclist or not!
This year will also see the introduction of a prize for the leading cycling club quiz team. Let's hope the Wheelers can get an early victory over the competition!
Weekly Wheelers Runs
Our weekly runs continue as follow throughout the year with new members always welcome - just come down to one of the runs and make yourself known to one of the riders!
Wednesday Night Turbo Sessions - Wednesday at 7pm in the Gortgonis Centre followed by a core program at 8pm.
Saturdays - The Pleasure Team go out on Saturday mornings (weather permitting) for a 30 - 35 mile cycle. Meet at the Cornmill at 10.30ish.
Sundays - leaving Cornmill, Coalisland at 10am - Various distances, usually between 50-80 miles throughout the year.

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