B Group Members

*B52* 

(Not sure why the group is called that? Some say it’s the average age of the riders, others say it is because they are regularly seen flying along the N52, but I think it’s because they’re all bombers!). The group of 9 met at O’Brien’s suitably distanced and masked. The usual chat soon turned to the escalating Covid numbers and the morning fog which were both casting a cloud over the morning sun. The Route was to head  to Kinnegad via Killucan and return through Tyrrellspass and home.

Padraig Moore, the squadron leader, headed up the charge into the fog with wingman Criostoir Sleator. It wasn’t long before the back seat navigators were warning of road closures and the appropriate diversions were taken up over the hill of down and into Killucan . At this stage the sun had cleared the fog and things heated up along with the pace. True to B52 tradition we were taking the hills faster than the flats averaging 29kmph all the way to Kinnegad where the group took a socially distanced “biological” break . At this point the squadron leader departed from the group along with chief navigator Brannock. The remaining magnificent 7 were left to brave the headwinds back to Tyrrellspass. The group worked well and held a steady pace into the wind and over Gneevebawn. 

The pace picked back up on the N52 and it wasn’t long before Criostoir raised concerns that we might be breaking club rules and setting an unfortunate precedent for finishing a Sunday club spin early. In fear of this the group diverted at Dalystown to take in a loop of the lake before returning via Dysart. By the end we had completed 78km at a respectable 28kmph average and avoided any established notion that a club spin could finish before 12pm.

C Group Spin  Saturday the 3^rd  October 2020.

It was a cold and slightly damp morning when we met at O’Brien’s Filling station, for our weekly group spin. Overnight rain meant the road surface was still wet with some standing water. A good crowd met and were soon marshalled off by Gerry, keeping a good social distance. A few new faces (including a group leader from the B, s whose advice, wisdom and experience was much appreciated) popped in for the ride as Sundays forecast was not good. At that time on Saturday morning the carpark can get busy so it was not long before we were off on our pre planed route. It took us out the Lynn road, on through Dalystown, Kilbeggan, Horseleap and into Clara. In Clara we headed for Tullamore where we stopped at Costa, coffee shop.

By that time we had over 40km done and the coffee, scones were much appreciated. Some bananas were also consumed but their owner was not consulted! Thus “Banana Gate” started. Who ate Micky’s? It’s worth noting when you cycle consistently for a period of time your body brakes down your glycogen store. Bananas help to replenish the glycogen loss in your muscles.   

After the coffee it was out of Tullamore and on up into Rahugh. By this time the road surface had dried and conditions were near perfect.  Then we cycled through Tyrrellspass and back to Mullingar.

Winter Note

“Full wrap rear mudguards are mandatory from Oct 26^th.  It’s recommended also fitting a front mudguard as they keep you dry and warm. A rear light should be fitted. Dig out the winter items of clothing like shoe covers, long gloves, head bands etc. so you’re ready when the temperature falls. Make sure your bike is in good mechanical order including tyres”. Regards the Group Leaders.

If any cyclist needs help refitting their mudguards just ask.

Stay safe and be seen.

D group spin Saturday 3^rd October 2020

 The regular D group met at our new base, O' Briens for our weekly spin. This was the first weekend to pull on the winter tights, a few hardy souls still braved the elements in shorts.

The route had been pre-posted and once all were ready it was out the road to Dalystown, down the scenic road to Raheenmore and onto Tyrrellspass. From there it was over Gneevebawn heading to Rochfortbridge. The puncture gremlin struck Tom on the summit but it was not too long before he was repaired and back on the road. For some of the group this was new territory as we headed onto Milltownpass. From here it was across the bog road to Knockaville and the coffee/scone stop at Mullingar Pewter Coffee shop at the Downs. Ann our waitress had our table ready and served up delicious treats. The general consensus was that we will be back. If you’re looking for a nice coffee in lovely surroundings make this your stop.
Once the troops were fed and watered it was back to base. The group had a very enjoyable 55km cycled. Looking forward to seeing one and all next Saturday.

Saturday 26^th September 2020

C Group spin

The newly formed C group met on Saturday morning, at O Brien’s Filling station following Covid-19 guidelines and headed on a pre-planned 70km route. Gerry Wallace describes the C group as “a natural progression for any D member wanting to up their game and move to a slightly faster Saturday spin. The speed will be strictly controlled 24-26km by the group leaders”. The size of the groups will be a maximum of 14.

On Saturday we also had the pleasure of cycling with some very experienced B and indeed A group cyclists, whose input is always valued and appreciated. It was a beautiful but cold autumnal morning as we headed out to Ballynacargy, through Tashinny and on to Ballymahon where socially distant coffee and scones were enjoyed in the local filling station. After coffee it was on through Moyvore, turning right for Loughnavalley and home via Ballinea. The group will meet every Saturday at 9am and all members are welcome to join.

Saturday D group Spin 26^th September 2020

The "Milky bar Kid" is dead - long live "Brioche Nolan"

Saturday was the first real sign that the weather had taken a turn for the worse. The car was frozen and the clock was showing 1 degree. A hardy bunch of 11 met up at O' Briens and headed for Cloughan. It was a lovely crisp morning and the group made steady progress to Killucan and onto Kinnegad. The regular coffee stop was scheduled for the Plaza. The outdoor seating area even has heated seats. Needless to say some of the group got it very hard to get back on the cold bicycle saddle after the break. Once the refreshments were finished it was homeward on the old Dublin Road. It was not very long before our good friend and regular cyclist Kevin headed to the front and drove the pace the whole way home. A number of the group were wondering where he had got the  extra stamina. There was a question of a blood sample. All was later revealed - he was now having brioche sandwiches for his breakfast. What a transformation. The rest of us usually have porridge. Good man Kevin.

Don't forget we are running an adult beginner group starting on the 4th October. Further details are available from Gerry Wallace 087 2557733

See you all next Saturday.

Saturday D Group Spin 19^th Sept 2020

Saturday a large group, within guidelines met at O' Briens. The new "C" group under the watchful guidance of Ulrika & Pat detailed their proposed route.

The D group with Tom Carolan and myself opted for a scenic route. We headed to Dalystown across to Rochfortbridge and across the bog to Rhode. On our arrival in Rhode we were met by a very irate "Dublin" driver - how he escaped from the Capital is beyond me. He proceeded to demonstrate to us that the roads were for vehicular traffic only. With a polite wave we ignored him, which left him completely speechless and headed for Croughan. From here it was onto Tyrrellspass and a well-earned coffee/scone in the Castle.
It was here by unanimous decision Lorraine was handed the "golden handle bars" and chain of office and was duly recognised as the "new" mother hen.  After the customary acceptance speech it was homeward bound. A very healthy 60km in the legs. Well done one and all.

Beginners Cycling Course
There have been a few enquiries about an adult beginners course. Did you buy a bike during the lockdown? Would you like to join the Wheelers?.
It is proposed to offer a beginner course starting on the 4th October. Over 6 weeks we will slowly get you cycling from couch to 50km.
Due to Covid restrictions registration will be required and numbers will be limited. If you are interested contact Gerry Wallace 087 2557733 for details.

Saturday D Group Spin 12^th September 2020

A large group assembled at O' Briens for the regular Saturday spin. It was windy but nice, a little chilly and a gentle reminder that it will not be long before the winter gear will be required. Under the capable hands of Ulrika and Pat the first group were dispatched heading for Loughnavalley. Tom and myself took charge of the remainder and headed in the same direction. The route had been pre-arranged and the coffee stop was scheduled for Tuar Ard in Moate. Needless to say Ulrika put the hammer down and her group had most of the fresh scones demolished by the time of our arrival. Our group were left with the crumbs and the 100 raisins she had meticulous picked from her scone. Why on earth she could not ask for a plain scone.?? With both groups refreshed the first group headed home via Horseleap. Our group took the scenic route along the Greenway with a nice breeze in our backs. It is great to see how popular this amenity has become. All arrived home safely after a very steady 70km.
From next week it has been decided that a designated "C" group will be formed. Under the very capable hands of Ulrika and Pat they will arrange the routes and tea stops. Regrettably it will no longer be possible for the two Saturday groups to converge on the same place for the customary stop. The success of the Saturday spins and the number turning up has led to this decision. In view of social distancing we are concerned for all of our members and your safety is paramount.
Looking forward to seeing one and all next week.

B Group Notes Sunday 6^th September 2020

For the second consecutive week there were enough Wheelers out on Sunday morning to make up two groups. It doesn't really matter if these groups are called B1 & B2 or faster B's/slower B's. The fact is that for the first time in a long time with the B's we now have enough members coming out consistently on Sunday mornings to be able to run two groups and this is wonderful news for the club group structure overall. Having two viable and consistent B groups operating allows club riders much more scope to match their fitness levels to the group of their choice. Whether it's a fast D group rider who wants to improve and start to cycle with the B2 group or a faster A2 rider who has been off the bike for a while and wants to start rebuilding their fitness and finds the pace of the B1 group more suitable, that option is now there so please continue to show up for the Sunday morning spin. 

The club is very lucky that we have very capable group leaders to safely marshall these different groups every week so keep coming out to those spins. If you haven't been out in a while then now you know that there is a suitable group there for you. If you are not a member and would like to know more about us then email secretary@lakesidewheelers.ie

Saturday D group spin 5^th September 2020

Saturday a large group assembled at O' Brien's. Word had spread a member of the group was celebrating a major milestone so everyone wanted to be in on the act. For safety and social distancing the groups split into 2. The first group under the capable leadership of Ulrika and Tosh headed out towards Ballinafid. Hot on their heels the second group followed.
It was a leisurely spin to Ballinafid and onto Multyfarnham. From here the group took the scenic route to Coole. The customary tea/scone stop was arranged for Tullynally Castle. Elaine and her excellent staff had the tables ready and beautiful homemade scones for everyone.
The Birthday boy (Jim Murray) was left speechless when a cake was presented and a rousing rendition of "Happy Birthday" could be heard around the courtyard. Poor Jim, for once in his life had no reply.
Once refreshed the first group headed into Castlepollard and Tosh brought them on the scenic lake road and into Collinstown. From here it was cross country towards Clonkill and home.
The second group headed for Bratty road and cross country back to town. Both groups had a respectable distance and everyone returned safely.
A warm welcome to the new faces this morning. I hope you all enjoyed your first outing with the Lakeside Wheelers and we look forward to seeing you next week, if we didn't put you off.