‘It was all for the children’ says shattered Bann Wheelers cyclist
Friday, 7 November 2008
Bann Wheelers riders who took part in the recent ‘Into the West 65mile Sportive Cycle Challenge.
ON Sunday, November 2 over 50 brave riders set off from Fr. Gallagher's grounds St. Mary's GAA sports (CLG Naomh Mhuire Leacht Mhanuis.) at Tamnaherin for the 'Into the West 65mile Sportive Cycle Challenge'. The event was run in support of the Northern Ireland Cancer Fund for Children and £1750 to date was raised.
Its course was set in the picturesque Sperrin Mountains and tough climbs like Barnes Gap, Sawel Mountain, Banagher Glen and Loughamore Forest were crossed. With weather conditions favorable the pace at the start was brisk over the early hills.
Bann Wheelers CC was well represented and its members did the club proud. Special mention has to go to riders like Sam Greer who literally rode himself to a standstill, drawing comment from assistant event organiser and ex professional cyclist Joe Barr, that Sam's efforts epitomised cycling and the commitment and bravery of its riders.
Bann Wheelers riders in attendance were Gary Turner, John Madden, Sharmin Crawford, Nigel Kerr, Sean Kealey, Russell Callaghan, Gary Kendall, Nigel Quigley, Steven McAllister, Routing Crew Bann Wheelers member Oliver Laverty and Robert Kennedy, Sam Greer and Colm Mcllfatrick.
All the riders were presented with a t shirt and certificate for completing the event.
The first riders home were John Madden and Gary Turner who as well as supporting the event used it as a good training run.
Clubs from both north and south of the border took the time to travel and show their support, but some of the local clubs failed to attend and missed out in this very worthy charity event.
The Bann Wheelers Cycling Club Chairman Robert Downes would like to thank the work done by Mr and Mrs Joe Barr, the community of Tamnaherin who were on the ground offering refreshment and sustenance to all who attended.
The Red Cross, the motor cycle out riders the "Feed Station" personnel the support vehicles and anyone else you gave freely of their time.
Bann Wheelers Club Secretary Maurice McAllister said that the "Into the West" cycle challenge was going to be an annual event and looked forward to along with everyone else again being involved.
The Sunday club runs will leave the Boulevard as usual and two groups will depart at 9.30am sharp as agreed at the last club meeting.
Robert Kennedy will lead the second group of riders who wish to travel at a more comfortable and leisurely pace.
Tickets for the "Club Diner and Prize Distribution" on Sat 15th November are available from club Treasurer Robert Kennedy, contact number 07929207302. Everyone is very welcome to attend.
There is an extra rraining Mid Week 'Night Time' mountain bike rides and anyone interested should contact Nigel Quigley on 07957555507
Saturdays Triangle Run with Maurice McAllister will be leaving the Town Hall at 10.15.pm, with all abilities welcome. The Pace is that of the slowest rider.
Attempts to secure a Cycling Ulster representative to the next club meeting are ongoing so members interested, see press for further developments.
