Latest News & Notes



Notes 19/02/2024


Wheelers Plan Big Events for 2024

After a long drawn-out period of uncertainty due to inclement weather, Lakeside Wheelers members finally got a run of decent temperatures free from storm warnings and rain over the last few weeks. This led to big numbers turning up for the Saturday and Sunday morning spins and group leaders scrambling for route ideas on their Garmins.

The A Group spent two consecutive weeks on the roads around Oldcastle and Lough Crew trying to make up for lost ground and by all accounts this proved to be a successful couple of weeks for endurance and hill training. Even the Saturday morning C Group got frisky and put in a long 80km spin last week so by now all the post-Christmas cobwebs are well blown off. In a desperate effort to avoid the terrible rain and storms several members headed for the sunny roads of Tenerife, Lanzarote and southern Spain. There are also plans afoot for another large group which is heading off in early March to Spain’s Costa Blanca for a week's warm weather training so best of luck to those travelling in that party. It is hoped that the worst of the weather is out of the way for this winter and that all groups can get back into some sort of routine and get regular cycling spins as the evenings grow longer. However, there are still a few weeks left where the mornings will be dark and cloudy so, please keep an eye on the condition of your bike and ensure that full wrap-around mudguards, front and rear lights are in good working order.

 

Wheelers Members Compete Abroad:

In recent days there were two great results for Lakeside Wheelers members who were competing abroad in different disciplines. Padraig Moran, who last year literally raced through the categories going from A4 to A2 in one season, was competing in Melbourne, Australia where he is coming to the end of a sabbatical of sorts. Padraig is clearly not letting the grass grow under his feet as he claimed the second step of the podium in the prestigious Glenvale Criterium race. Padraig stated that he is really enjoying his time down under and is gaining valuable bike handling experience in these technical races. Congrats to Padraig and we all look forward to seeing him back in the Lakeside Wheelers colours this summer.

While triathlon is the chosen sport for Elizabeth Carr she is a regular attendee on Sunday mornings for the A Group spins. Elizabeth is currently travelling with the Irish Triathlon squad and last week she raced brilliantly to claim gold in the Troutbeck Tri in Zimbabwe. Once again congrats to Elizabeth and best wishes from all your friends at Lakeside Wheelers.

 

2024 Events:

As the racing and sportive season approaches the club committee in partnership with Cycling Ireland have finally laid out the dates for the major events which Lakeside Wheelers will be hosting this year.

First up will be the Paracycling TT which will be staged on Saturday, May 25th and will once again be held on the old N6 road between Moate and Kilbeggan. This has become a very regular event for the club in recent years and one which Paracycling Ireland is very appreciative of. With 2024 been an Olympic year there will be big pressure on competitors to achieve good results and hopefully selection for Paris in September.

The club’s biggest leisure event, the Tour of the Lakes sportive will be held on Sunday, June 9th and as usual a large crowd will be expected in Mullingar for this event. 2022 and 2023 saw record breaking crowds turn up for this sportive and it is hoped that this trend will continue for 2024.

Finally, the Mullingar GP will be staged on July 7th and will once again from part of the Cyclling Ireland National Road Series race league. It is being held a week earlier this year to ensure that the best Junior riders in the country can compete as the later date in recent years clashed with the International Junior Tour in Clare. Lakeside Wheelers race organisers would like to thank our friends in Moynalty Cycling Club for facilitating this date swap.

So, mark these dates in your diary and whatever event is your target, get out and get the training done and enjoy the different races.

Finally for this week, all riders are reminded that annual subscriptions are now overdue for membership of Lakeside Wheelers and the committee request all members to renew for the year 2024. Please do not attend training in the clubhouse or on Saturday/Sunday morning group spins as you are not insured if you have not renewed your club membership.


Notes 18/12/2023

Wheelers Get Back on the Roads

 

After a period of more than three weeks of inclement weather which confined cycling to the dreaded turbo, Lakeside Wheelers got the weekend road spins back on track last weekend.

Pat Liddy got the Saturday crew out again and stayed mostly local with a handy spin round the roads of Dysart, Castletown Geoghegan, Tyrellspass and home via Rochfortbridge. All was going well until the puncture fairy cursed Paula Connolly but with the likes of Pat on hand it was only a minor hiccup.

On Sunday there was a large turnout with everyone chomping to get a decent long spin in after the frost and rain induced layoff. With the B group destined for the general Tullamore direction Paul Murtagh brought the A’s on a 105km circuit of Tyrellspass, Daingean, Tullamore and Clara. With spins at this time of year focusing on endurance and steady riding, the wait for the customary coffee stop was a bit longer than normal leaving riders to fend for themselves for the first 75km. Fully refueled, the route brought the riders home via Horseleap and with the Christmas break just a week away this was a very good ride for this time of year.

As Christmas Eve falls on Sunday next, the group leaders have decided to run a spin of two hours duration with no stop so, usual time and place then home early to get ready for Santa. I wonder will he bring any new bikes this year??

 

Turkey Trot

This time of year is always a lottery for cyclists with the weather dictating the schedule of club rides. The few days of the traditional Christmas holidays can either be a feast or a famine of training but one day which every Lakeside Wheelers member hopes is a cycling friendly day, is December 27th. Locally known as Turkey Trot day, it is a long established tradition whereby all groups depart the clubhouse together at 10am and generally stop for coffee and seasonal pastries after about 40km. The return leg can be whatever members want, either directly back to town or via the scenic route for extra distance, depending on how much turkey and stuffing needs to be shifted!!! There is a new location for refreshments on the route this year so if you have the time and the energy don’t miss the 2023 Turkey Trot.

On behalf of the Lakeside Wheelers committee, all members and their families are wished a very Happy Christmas and a healthy and safe New Year.


Notes 11/12/2023

Lakeside Wheelers Christmas Party Causes a Storm

Lakeside Wheelers members gathered in the Annebrook Hotel last Saturday evening to celebrate their Christmas party. As usual, there were lots of festive outfits and party host Ulrika Maher ensured that everyone got into the party spirit.

In a break from tradition the annual awards to members were presented this year at the club AGM in November but Ulrika’s novelty awards were still on the agenda on the night. Several members were called to the stage to receive a prize which reflected a notable “achievement” on the bike during the year. Recipients, to name but a few were; Mick Hyland, Breda Brady, Liz Hoctor, Clem Bartley, Mick Reynolds, Pairic Murtagh, Tosh Kiernan, Martin Quinn,  Seamus Moran and Pat Morrissey. Congrats to you all for making it onto Ulrika’s 2023 hit list.

Following this there was dancing and a sing along to the music provided by Finbar Cody which got everyone up dancing. Lakeside Wheelers members and committee would like to thank the staff of the Annebrook Hotel for the hospitality and the finger food which was very well received.

 

Winter Cycling

Unfortunately the weather has been very unkind to cyclists in recent weeks with all of the club weekend road spins cancelled due to either torrential rain or frost in the last month. Last weekend storm Fergus put paid to any thoughts of getting out but in truth, there was probably nobody complaining as members recovered from the Christmas party. However, apart from cyclocross there has been very little action on the road as it has simply been too dangerous.

Whilst it is frustrating not to be getting out on the bike it is important that all cyclists take note of weather conditions when planning training or leisure spins during the winter. There are no shortage of stories of cycling club members who get the call wrong at this time of year and end up nursing sore or broken limbs due to falls as a result of the weather. M      embers are asked to please pay heed to notices and warnings from group leaders regarding club group spins which normally get published by Saturday afternoons every weekend.    

In tandem with checking weather warnings members are asked to ensure that their bikes are winter ready with full wrap around mudguards, front and rear lights and also that the bike is safe and fully serviced. Hopefully the weather Gods will shine on cyclists again soon and let training resume to get those all important endurance spins going once again.

 

Turkey Trot

The annual Turkey Trot spin to blow off the excess of the Christmas dinner and other festive activities will be held on December 27th with notice of details to be posted soon.


Cyclocross Season Arrives to Belvedere

 

As December 1st heralded the beginning of the meteorological winter, it also brought the sport of Cyclocross racing to Mullingar with Lakeside Wheelers hosting round 6 of the Leinster league last weekend. Cyclocross racing generally slots into the cycling calendar at the start of autumn, just as the road racing season draws to a close. It is normally staged on a short, grassy, 2km circuit featuring wooded trails, steep hills and obstacles which require the riders to dismount then carry their bike over the obstacle then remount to continue in the race. So, as you can imagine, it is approximately 45minutes to one hour of high heart-rate effort, just the job to wake you up on a Sunday morning. The grounds of Belvedere House and Gardens were the spectacular location for this relatively new discipline of cycling in Mullingar.

As if by design, the World Cup of cyclocross racing rolled into Dublin the previous weekend bringing a host of professional racers to the Sport Ireland campus in Blanchardstown. This is the second year that this huge event has visited these shores and once again it was a big success with several Lakeside Wheelers members going along to watch.

Over the last three weeks a team of Lakeside Wheelers members have been extremely busy building and marking out the course at Belvedere. Race Director, Steve Franzoni stated that the aim was for Lakeside Wheelers to put on one of the fastest races of the season so the course was intentionally designed to flow with several flat but technical sections included along with the usual stepped and wooded segments.

Sunday December 3rd was race day and the weather couldn’t have been better with slight frost, fog and sunshine the order of the day, perfect conditions for cyclocross. An army of volunteers from Lakeside Wheelers gathered for briefing at 08.30am with racing commencing at 09.55am. This is an extremely family friendly event with races for everyone from U6 years to Masters on the schedule.

Throughout the day the races went like clockwork with everything running to time which is does not happen by accident. Hats off to all involved for making this yet another top class race by Lakeside Wheelers and further cementing the reputation of the club for top class event promotion. Thanks to all who helped out to ensure the day was a big success.

Lakeside Wheelers members who participated were; Kate Horohoe, Ruairi Horohoe, Richie Lenihan, Paul Murtagh, Seamus Moran and Conor Eighan. Well done to you all.

 

Christmas Party

All members are reminded that the club Christmas party takes place on Saturday December 9th in the Annebrook House Hotel. Festivities are scheduled to kick off at 19.30pm so get you Christmas jumper on and see you all there.


Notes 19/11/2023


Lakeside Wheelers Hold 2023 AGM and the Hill Climb Returns

 

Lakeside Wheelers held its AGM last Friday evening in the newly refurbished clubhouse and as usual, it proved to be a very interesting meeting. Club Chairman, Ed Tyrell kicked proceedings off as he welcomed everyone and laid out the agenda for the evening. Following on from Ed’s introduction there were a series of presentations by the various club officers.

Club Secretary, Ulrika Maher gave a very comprehensive review of the committee’s activities over the past year highlighting the extensive list of events which the club hosted in 2023. Next up was Treasurer, Pearse Murphy, who informed the gathering of how the club fared financially, and thankfully his report had no bad news. Events Officer, Paul Gibney, then delivered a lengthy report on the 2023 editions of Tour of the Lakes, the Mullingar GP and the Leinster League Cyclo Cross race. All in all, the past year has been extremely busy for Lakeside Wheelers and it was great to hear that each of the events was very successful.

The next item on the agenda was to debate a committee motion which proposed to amend a segment of the membership facility within the club. Following an interesting discussion with several contributions from the floor the motion was put to a vote and subsequently passed. The outcome of this amendment means that Lakeside Wheelers will now provide any former members of the club with an option to join Lakeside Wheelers as an Associate member with certain limitations attached to this type of membership.

With that item tidied up, the often times dreaded task of electing a new committee was next up on the agenda. Thankfully there wasn’t a mass exodus and the process was pretty seamless. Ed Tyrell and Pearse Murphy are continuing as club Chairman and Treasurer respectively. Outgoing Secretary Ulrika Maher was replaced by Eugene Duffy and Shay O’Toole takes over the mantle as PRO from Paul Gibney. Pete Rimmer who is a long standing member of the club is new to the 2024/25 committee and he volunteered to take on the role of Events Officer. Breda Brady will continue in her role with responsibility for Safeguarding while Eddie Hynes will be staying on as a committee member. Finally, Mark Horohoe was elected as the new Club President which proved to be a very popular addition to what appears to be a very strong committee for the coming year. Outgoing President, Shay O’Toole thanked the committee for their hard work and commitment over the last year and he gave special mention to Ulrika and Paul who he stated worked tirelessly on behalf of all members for the last six years.

Finally, with the new committee in place there was only one task to complete before the meeting was brought to a close. This year, the committee decided to present some of the annual awards at the AGM instead of the Christmas party. The awards in question were, Best Newcomer which went to Mark Cunningham, Most Improved Rider which went to Paula Connolly, Best Racer which went to Neil McDermott while, for the first time in the history of the club, the award of Club person of the Year was presented jointly with Jack Nugent and Eugene Duffy being designated as the worthy winners this year. Congratulations to all recipients and well done on your achievements.

 

 

Hill Climb

The annual Hill Climb competition was resurrected this year and run off last Saturday morning in damp but relatively mild conditions. This event is always billed as a “fun” spin but once the stopwatch is produced, the fun element goes out the window. Thirty riders took to the start ramp for the 2km ride from Multyfarnham village to the gates of Wilsons Hospital School. Afterwards all riders and timekeepers gathered in Weir’s pub for well deserved coffee and scones.

Well done to all who took part and thanks to timekeepers, Phil Wade, Billy Cunnane, Brendan Kiernan, Shay O’Toole and Paul Gibney. Results of the 2023 Hill Climb are as follows:

A Group

1st Neil McDermott, 2nd Moss Keane 3rd Pete Rimmer

B Group

1st Norman Blakeley 2nd Paul Doherty 3rd Martin Nally

C Group Ladies

1st Claire Malone 2nd Paula Connolly 3rd Ulrika Maher

C Group Men

1st Padraig Murtagh 2nd Mick Butler 3rd Jim Murray

D Group Ladies

1st Claire Lyster 2nd Cepta Dolan 3rd Breda Brady

D Group Men

1st Ciaran Moore 2nd Noel Strong 3rd Tom Sweeney


Claire Lyster, Neil McDermott and Mossie Keane  receiving prizes from Club President, Mark Horohoe

Annual award winners: Paula Connolly (Most Improved Rider),  Mark Cunningham (Best Newcomer) Jack Nugent and Eugene Duffy (Club Persons of the Year) and Neil McDermott (Best Racer)

Notes 04/11/2023



Club AGM & Prizegiving


Don' forget this Friday evening, November 17th at 7.00 pm in the clubhouse we are holding our AGM for the benefit of club members. We will also be presenting the annual club awards to our fellow clubmates. Please support. 



Annual Hillclimb Morning


On Saturday morning November 18th we are holding the Wheelers Hillclimb Challenge. Weirs pub in Multyfarnham will the HQ for sign on which is from 11.00 with riders away at 11.30. All riders welcome; why not incorporate this into your spin, do the hill climb and then join everyone afterwards back in Weirs pub for coffee/tea and light refreshments.

Please email secretary@lakesidewheelers.ie by noon on Friday 17 to register your place.


Wheelers Racers Prepare For 2024 Season


Daire Feeley was the guest speaker to an assembly of cyclists within Lakeside Wheelers who have plans to race in 2024.

Daire is Ireland’s top ranked cyclist and in 2022 won the country's premier race, the RÁS. He is expanding into coaching and we were very grateful that he took a few hours out of his busy schedule to call into the recently renovated clubhouse to give everyone his extensive advice and experience.


He walked us through what a Winter training plan should look like which was delivered with confidence from someone who’s already achieved at a high level.


Later on the issue of nutrition was covered;  what to do and what to avoid when fueling during a race or hard training efforts. There was some really interesting information about carbohydrates which would have been new to most in the room. There were plenty of questions and comments from the audience afterwards.


Thanks to Daire for speaking with us and the best of luck to him and everyone for the upcoming race season.




Notes 29/10/2023


Lifetime Membership Awards

Last Friday evening members and friends of Lakeside Wheelers cycling club gathered together to celebrate the achievements of three young cyclists all of whom came up through the ranks of the Wheelers and have gone on to achieve wonderful things within the sport of cycling.


Only twice before in the club's almost fifty year history have previous members been honoured with a Lifetime Membership award.


This time around we added Aaron Wade, Caoimhe O’Brien and Aoife O’Brien to that list.


In a clubhouse that was freshly painted and looking well thanks to the efforts of chairman Ed Tyrrell, it was Ed himself who welcomed everybody before handing over to the club president, Shay O’Toole to make the presentations after we listened to ex professional cyclist and himself a past recipient of the Lifetime Membership award, Damien Shaw, say a few nice words. 


Shay then recounted the mightily impressive list of accomplishments and victories of firstly Aoife O’Brien, older sister Caoimhe and finally Aaron Wade. It was a seriously thorough bit of research to have identified each of the recipients main achievements in time order from their youth and junior racing days and covered exploits both in road and track racing.


It was evident from the heartfelt words spoken by each of them after they received their awards that they are proud to be a Wheeler.


Finally a special award was presented to Joe Duffy for services to cycling and to Lakeside Wheelers. The lead-in speech by Shay was full of anecdotes and stories as befitted such a long history and service to the sport of cycling in Mullingar and beyond. Congratulations to all recipients, you are all fully deserving of your awards.


The convivial atmosphere continued for a while afterward with photographs and catch up chats being had all fuelled by coffee and delicious sandwiches and buns. Well done to everyone who came out and contributed to make the evening a very special one in the club's history. 

Clubhouse looking well before the ceremony 


Chairman Ed Warms Up The Crowd


Shay O'Toole, Club President, Making His Address


Aoife O'Brien 


Caoimhe O'Brien


Aaron Wade


Joe Duffy


The O'Brien Family


The Wade Family


Notes 30/06/2023


Club to Honour Past Members 


Later this week the club is taking the opportunity to honour three outstanding young cyclists to have come up through the clubs ranks in recent years and who have gone on to represent the sport and themselves so well at national level both on road and on the track.

To this end we are hosting an award evening at club HQ starting at 7.00 pm on Friday evening 27th October where Aaron Wade along with sisters Aoife O'Brien and Caoimhe O'Brien will be awarded Lifetime Membership of Lakeside Wheelers cycling club.

This award has only ever been given out on two other occasions in our history and so for the club to be able to present it again to these three incredibly deserving recipients is very special. We hope as many people as possible will come down to the Barracks and help us make the occasion a memorable one. Light refreshments, tea & coffee will be available.


Winter Spins Underway

The Winter training spins have commenced which means that the emphasis is on slower and steadier group rides.

They include:-

- Slower group pace

- Endurance spins

- Using the small chainring

- Ride any hills in group formation (don't pass riders)

- Ride steady as a group for the whole spin (no race for home)

- Relaxed coffee stops


Full wrap around rear mudguards and a rear light are mandatory for everyone. Please ensure you fit a mudguard which is fit for purpose which is predominantly for the safety and sanity of the clubmate behind you. Here's a hint - if on a wet club spin you notice a huge gap behind to the next rider or maybe no one at all, then maybe your mudguard isn't doing the job!



Club to Host Cyclocross Race


Cyclocross season is well underway around the country. Cyclocross or CX as it's sometimes known as is a lot of fun and a CX course can be set up just a few acres of ground with racers completing multiple laps which means spectators get to see lots of action from the same spot.

As was the case last year, Belvedere House & Gardens will again be the venue for the clubs turn to host round six of the Leinster League of Cyclocross on Sunday December 3rd. Race director Steven Franzoni and a select race committee are at work preparing for this event. More on this to follow.

Notes 30/06/2023

Lakeside Wheelers Mizen to Malin July 2023 


An enthusiastic group of Wheelers commenced their “Bottom to Top” spin of Ireland on Monday last 24th July at 11am and arrived at Malin Head on Saturday 29th July at 1pm. The challenging route over 665km had ascents totalling 4710m and the spin took us through 9 counties -  Cork, Kerry, Limerick, Clare, Roscommon, Mayo, Sligo, Leitrim and Donegal.

Starting in glorious weather at Mizen head with fabulous views as far as the Fastnet rock - our group set off for the day one spin towards Kenmare and the glorious weather allowed us enjoy the magnificent scenery as we traversed the Cork and Kerry mountains taking in the rugged scenery on the peninsula before  passing through Bantry and Glengariff and the long drag up to the Caha pass and an 18km decent all the way to Kenmare to close off our first days challenge of 88k and overnight in Kenmare.

Day 2 took us from Kenmare to Adare and was to be the longest distance on the whole route. We enjoyed another day of fabulous weather and great scenery as we climbed Mols Gap in the 1st 10k of our journey . Although this was the highest ascent on the day, it turned out not to be the most challenging and having lunched well in Castleisland our route planner was not getting many compliments for this next particular climb as we headed off the main road and up past Cragg Cave  and  this proved to be the most challenging  climb on the whole trip. It was a real tester and Paula Mulvihill proved herself be the  worthy Queen of the Mountains  leaving the rest of us struggling to complete a very steep 2k climb up to the “Kerry Scenic Platform”  and a very well earned rest. We then turned off the main roads in Abbeyfeale and followed the Limerick Greenway for 35k. Featuring lots of gates and crossings for some of us :- it was slowing them down and others were grateful to have the pace pulled back due to the frequency of regular slowing at crossings.  Another 20k took us to Adare and day 2 completed and another 135k on the clock.

Leaving Adare on day 3 it was time to put on the rain gear as we headed for Claregalway – our early start allowed us a straight run through Limerick city without any traffic issues and push on on the wet day to Ennis where warm food and hot soups were the choice for lunch menu and a lot of us choosing to change out of wet gear into dry gear before pushing on towards Oranmore and Claregalway. Not a great day to enjoy the scenery and a huge demand on toilet rolls in the hotel that night..... to stuff into wet shoes!. We now had 345km on the clock. Just over half way there!

Day 4 took us from Claregalway to Sligo across open and exposed territory and much improved weather  and we took in a lot of very  rural roads – some  featuring a lot of grass growing up the middle of the roads before we reached Ballaghadereen and refuelled. Crossing into Mayo we began our gradual descent towards Sligo  with great views in all directions. Onwards through Colooney and Ballysadare we managed to say off the busy main roads all the way to the Sligo Park hotel for another well earned rest. (I promised not to mention the little surprise of a 1k detour that would be far more worthy of mountain bikes – as we approached Sligo. Enough said.!) 129K completed today.

On day 5 our destination was Letterkenny and we our early start got us quickly through Sligo town and we hugged the coastal route out past Drumcliffe with Ben Bulben standing proudly on our right  - before cutting across the main road and taking a slow climb on quiet scenic roads before pulling west to enjoy the sea views again as we approached Bundoran – we then  criss-crossed country roads to Ballybofey before rejoing the main N13 and a strong peleton push all the way into Letterkenny. Another 117k off the clock.

Our last day stared in heavy rain as we left Letterkenny and this stayed on and off with us for most of the journey before the sun appeared for the last 20k. We changed route planners for the final day as we now had Pete Faulkner's local knowledge to guide us the rest of the way and his guidance allowed us to push hard most of the way supported by strong winds pushing us in the right direction. We then moved on  through Manorcunningham into Burnfoot and enjoyed great views across Lough Swilly before taking a well timed break just before Buncrana and while we refuelled indoors the heaviest rain of the day  poured down. Back on the road and it was clear there was an  adrenalin rush  with the end only 40k away and our pace picked up  all the way up the peninsula into Malin and onward to Malin Head with a few challenging climbs towards the finishing line.

The view as equally as breathtaking as our initial view at Mizen head and all agreed the view was worth every pedal turn over the 6 days – and  as the sun shone brilliantly, we posed for required “group Pic” against wonderful background views.  It was definitely  an emotional moment for all of us and lots of group hugs  and it was only  1pm in the day.

The Mizen to Malin Wheelers were  an eclectic mix from fit younger cyclists  to full and part-time pensioners – all who worked with (and for) each other to ensure we all got there and everything went very smoothly.

 A huge amount of logistics was undertaken over a number of months before our cycle to ensure everything ran smoothly and it paid off.  Thanks to Ulrika, Pat, Michael and Pete for burning the midnight oil over a number of months in planning this to perfection. Thanks to Joe and Pat for their fabulous support work between the backup support van and quick fixes for the punctures and breakdowns along the the route. We wouldn't have made it without you all.

Our pic shows the 12  members of the Mizen to Malin group and everyone  agreed it was an absolutely brilliant experience.

Mizen to Malin Team members:-  Andre Barbousa, Michael Butler, Joe Duncan, Peter Faulkner, Pat Liddy, Ulrika Maher, Darya Mattimoe, Paula and Niall Mulvihill, Padraig Murtagh, Martin Nally and Niall Weir, 

Writing Credit:- Martin Nally

The Group Leaving Mizin Head

"SUCCESS" Arrival at Malin Head

Lakeside Wheelers perform well at Tuam GP 

Over the weekend of July 24, Lakeside Wheelers had four cyclists travel West to the Tuam GP. Padraig Moran and David Lally competed in the A3 and Seamus Moran and Paul Murtagh in the A4 races.

Typical of these Summer GP races it was all action from the very start with attacks frequently going off the front. One attack that did manage to get away happened in the A3 race where Pardaig Moran managed to get into a five man break which sayed clear of the chasing field the whole way. Padraig was narrowly beaten to second place on the day after a hectic bunch sprint but that finish sees him earn enough points to now race as an A2 so congratulations to him.

While there were no other podium placings, everyone raced well, safely coming home at the front of the finishing bunch in their respective races. 


Tuam GP Racers and Support Crew:- L - R  Tosh Kiernan, Padraig Moran, Billy Cunnane, David Lally, Paul Murtagh, Seamus Moran

Like Father Like Son: Seamus & Padraig Moran

Notes 30/06/2023

Lakeside Wheelers Mullingar GP a Huge Success


Lakeside Wheelers Mullingar staged the annual Mullingar GP on Sunday July 16th with record numbers participating. Due to the ongoing wet spell this summer the race organisers were keeping their fingers and toes crossed for a break from the downpours of late and thankfully, the weather Gods shone and the sun came out for the day.

More than 200 riders signed on to compete over the four race categories including a separate Ladies race. This gave the race organising committee a great boost and along with the event being upgraded to the Cycling Ireland National Road Race series, a good days racing was in prospect.


Tribute

The club also had another reason to be delighted with the big turnout as the entire race programme was being dedicated to the memory of past President Donie Kelleher who sadly passed away earlier this year. Donie’s wife Caroline and children, Lesley and Dan were present while his brother James and sister Elizabeth also travelled up from Tralee to be part of the commemoration.


Racing

Racing commenced at 11.00am with the A1/A2 race setting off to compete over four laps of the 34km route which saw the race travelling through Crookedwood, Castlepollard, Coole and back to Multy. Shortly afterwards all races were on the route with several local riders participating in the A3 and A4 events. Unfortunately the three local stars of Irish cycling, the O’Brien sisters and Aaron Wade were not part of the day’s proceedings as they were in Portugal representing Ireland in the European track championships.

Lakeside Wheelers members fared very well with Padraig Moran claiming an excellent 5th place in the very competitive A3 race over 102kms. In the slightly shorter A4 race (68kms) the best local finisher was Seamus Killian in 4th place who is having a great year on the road. Other notable performances came from Brendan Kiernan and Paul Cronin who claimed the best Unplaced Lakeside Wheelers prizes in the A3 and A4 races respectively.

Overall the day was a huge success with the Cycling Ireland officials present heaping praise on the club for its “very professional” promotion of this prestigious event. All members enjoyed a club social night with BBQ on Sunday evening in the Chambers Bar where all the races were dissected and the usual sporting post mortems were thrashed out.


Thank You

As is the case with any major event there are certain people and organisations that make it all happen. Lakeside Wheelers is indebted to Westmeath County Council, Mullingar Gardai and the local Traffic Division, Mullingar Civil Defence Unit, Cycling Ireland, Multyfarnham Community Centre, Multyfarnham GAA club,  Kennys Koal Kabin, Trend Technologies, Robbie Burzawa for the photography, Pat Cullen’s moto crew (Cionn Torc Motor Cycle Club), Martin Keville and his moto crew and last but not least, the people of Multyfarnham, especially those who live on the race route.


Marshalling

Without doubt, the greatest asset any club has is its members and once again the Lakeside Wheelers faithful showed why the club is in the top echelons of Irish cycling. Over 50 members turned out to assist the race organisers with driving, catering, sign-on and of course marshalling duties. There is simply no way an event of this magnitude that requires months of planning, could go ahead without the assistance of these people and it goes without saying that you all did an amazing job and are a credit to your club.

That concludes the big events for Lakeside Wheelers for the 2023 season and already there are plans afoot for 2024. Well done to all concerned.

 

World Championships

The news of former Lakeside Wheelers member, Aaron Wade’s selection to ride in the Irish U23 team at this year’s World Championships was received with great pride amongst club members this week.

Aaron, who now rides with the Spanish, Club Ciclista Padrones-Cortizo team, has dedicated countless hours, days, months and years since his early teens to becoming a cyclist and now with this upcoming appearance at the world’s biggest cycling event he really has an opportunity to put himself in the shop window for the biggest teams in international cycling. All Lakeside Wheelers members wish Aaron the very best in Glasgow in August as he once again dons the green, white and gold of Ireland but never before has he done it on such a big stage. Good luck Aaron.



Mizen to Malin

A group of Lakeside Wheelers members departed last weekend on a mammoth journey that will see them ride approx. 900kms. This group are taking on the now well worn route from Mizen Head to Malin Head and the club wishes them all the best. Stay safe, enjoy and hopefully there will be a few notes taken to record the journey for everyone to read in the coming weeks.




Seamus Killian crossing the finishing line  in the A4 race

Padraig Moran in control in the A3 race

A1/A2 race with Stuart Cox in the bunch

Family of Donie Kelleher with members of the club committee after remembering Donie at prizegiving.


Notes 03/07/2023

Lakeside Wheelers to Host Major Irish Cycle Race:


Sunday, July 16 th will be another red-letter day for local cycling club, Lakeside Wheelers

Mullingar as they host their annual Mullingar GP race in Multyfarnham.

The club has been staging top level competitive cycling for several years and is widely

recognised as one of the best promoters of cycle racing in Ireland. In 2014 Lakeside Wheelers

had its biggest day by far when it hosted the Elite National Championships, a race won by the

then An Post Chainreaction rider, Ryan Mullen who now rides at Pro Tour level for Bora-

Hansgrohe as lead-out man for Ireland’s sprint sensation, Sam Bennett.

This year the club’s annual GP race has been upgraded to Round 6 of the Cycling Ireland

National Road Race Series bringing top level bike racing back to the Mullingar and

Multyfarnham area. Local interest will be spread through the different categories of races on

the day with members racing in all but one of the categories. However, a lot of focus will be

on three former members of the club who are now plying their trade with bigger racing

teams.

The O’Brien sisters, Caoimhe and Aoife, along with Aaron Wade are all products of the

Lakeside Wheelers Youths academy from some years ago and now these three riders are the

backbone of the Irish and international racing scene. As recently as last week Caoimhe

O’Brien, now riding with the Belgian, Belco Van Eyck Sport team rode the race of her life to

claim 2 nd place in the Elite Ladies race at the National Cycling Championships in Co. Tyrone.

This was an amazing feat for the U23 rider and it gives a glimpse of what is possible for her

in the future. Caoimhe is the current leader of the Cycling Ireland National Road Race Series

so no doubt she will be a marked woman as she attempts to secure that standing on home

roads. Aoife (Spellman-Dublin Port) also rode the Nationals in Co. Tyrone and was not too

far behind her big sister as she won bronze in the U23 category with yet another lifetime best

performance. Aaron Wade has moved to northern Spain where he rides with Club Ciclista

Padrones-Cortizo and is also having a fantastic 2023 season. He is currently lying in 3 rd

position in the National Road Race Series and will come to the Mullingar GP off the back of

some excellent performances. In this year’s Ras Tailteann he finished 8 th overall and won the

White jersey representing best U23 rider but more importantly, he played a major part on the

Irish team that helped Dillon Corkery to outright victory in that extremely tough five-day

race. Aaron has also had two big successes in recent weeks at the Mondello Park Racing

Series and but for a mechanical at the Nationals in Co. Tyrone would have finished much

higher on the overall standings. To cap it all off, these three fine athletes and ambassadors

not only for Irish cycling, but for their families and home town have now been selected to

represent Ireland at the upcoming U23 and Junior European Track Championships to be held

in Portugal in July.

Lakeside Wheelers will also be making a slight change to this year’s race as the club aims to

pay tribute to past President, Donie Kelleher, who sadly passed away earlier this year. The

day’s racing will be dedicated to Donie’s memory as not only was he a valued club member

but also an avid cycling fan. Donie travelled the length and breadth of the country with his

trusty camera recording images of every race and sportive and he is sadly missed. Race


organisers have invited Donie’s family to attend so it will be a poignant day but also one of

celebration as Donie would have wished.

So, make it a date in your diary and come out to Multyfarnham on Sunday, July 16th to cheer

on some of the best cyclists on the Irish racing scene. The race route runs over a 34km circuit

from Multy to Crookedwood, Castlepollard, Coole and back to Multy over the bog road.

Racing starts from Multyfarnham Community Centre at 11am and will continue until

approximately 3pm.



Caoimhe O'Brien, Aoife O'Brien & Aaron Wade in action on the bike recently

Donie at a club event last year

Notes 28/05/2023


Sportive Season in Full Swing 

Tour de Conamara 

Almost 30 Wheelers went West at the weekend and took part in the 2023 Tour de Conamara. As usual for this sportive the scenery was fabulous and made all the better by the really nice weather everyone enjoyed. However it wasn't all easy going and at times the breeze coming in off the Atlantic did make itself known but it didn't take from the spin. With a 140Km or an 80 Km option there was a challenge there for everyone. There was food and music on the riders return to the start/finish area at the Station House Hotel. Also a beer tent that some availed of and this was a great opportunity to sit and relax in the warm afternoon sunshine and compare notes as to how the ride went and to promise that yes you'll be back again next year! It was a well run event and all finishers were presented with a nice medal at the finish. 

Wheelers 'en masse' in Conamara

Ride London 2023

This year Lakeside Wheelers had two brave souls who traveled across to London to take part in the 2023 version of Ride London which is a 162 Km or 100 miles sportive which started on Waterloo Bridge headed out into the Essex countryside and finished back in London on the iconic Tower Bridge. Jim Murray and Martin Nally are the two gentlemen who took on this particular challenge and were delighted with the spin and the whole experience as is evidenced by the lovely picture of them after receiving their finisher medals. Well done to both.


Jim & Martin after finishing Ride London 2023

Tour Of The Lakes 2023

On Sunday June 11th Lakeside Wheelers will host our annual club sportive departing from and finishing at the Barracks on Ashe Road, Mullingar. This year we will have two different route options. The shorter route is 85 Km in length. Within this distance we will have an option of a faster group averaging approximately 26 Kph and a slower group of approximately 22 Kph.

Our longer route of approximately 120 Km will have the option of going out with a group at an average speed of 32 Kph, 28 Kph or 25 Kph. All groups will be led by members of Lakeside Wheelers and will have a lead car or motorcycle for safety. 

There is a food stop near Fore village in North Westmeath and we definitely promise that your spin will take in some lovely views of some of Westmeath's finest scenery!

To register go to www.lakesidewheelers.ie to access the link. Non Cycling Ireland members will also have to pay for a one day license fee.

We will also accommodate cyclists who decide to register on the day. Registration will be open from before 9.00 and the first group will depart at 10.00.




Notes 15/05/2023


Ras Tailteann Representation from Lakeside Wheelers

 

The 2023 addition of RAS Tailteann kicks off next Wednesday May 17 from Navan and will finish five days later in Blackrock, Co. Louth. Teams from Clubs & National level are participating in this Ireland’s premier road bike race.

Current and past members of Lakeside Wheeler cycling club will have more than a passing interest in this years race. Club man, Stuart Cox is riding as part of a combined Midlands Racing Team. He is joined by cyclists from Longford and Streamstown for 2023. This is far from Stuart’s first time taking part in the RAS having taken to the start line on six previous occasions. This will be an extremely tough five days racing for these men as standards just keep on improving.

Two recently departed club members now racing for their own clubs in the RAS are Ruairi Woods & Aaron Wade. Ruairi will be in the colours of Spellman Dublin Port and Aaron will be racing as part of the Irish national U23 team. He is plying his trade in Spain racing full time with team Ciclista Padrones-Cortizo, so this week will be a special occasion for his family as they can all watch him race on home soil. Weather conditions are due to be quite good for the week which should make even faster racing and a more exciting few days. Everyone in the club wishes Stuart, Ruairi, Aaron and everyone participating best of luck and safe racing during the RAS. 


    Aaron Wade

Stuart, on left in red jersey & black helmet racing in the Midland Racing Team colours

Bike Week May 13 – 22


As part of Bike Week 2023, Lakeside Wheelers are organising a social ice-cream spin for non-members on Tuesday May 16th. Meeting at 18.30 at Columb Barracks, Ashe Rd, Mullingar N91 XK06. You will be brought on an easy 20 Km cycle along the towpath of the Royal Canal out as far as one of the local lockhouses for coffee and an ice-cream. Everyone is welcome, bring a friend and please don’t forget to wear your helmet!


Notes 30/04/2023


Great weekend for Wheelers at Castlebar GP


Lakeside Wheelers had racers in several categories go down to Castlebar to race their GP last Saturday.

With some excellent placings in all races it was Stuart Cox who came in a commendable seventh position in the A2 race while in the A3 Brendan ‘Tosh‘ Kiernan podiumed in third.

It was in the A4 race where there was a bit more action with Padraig Moran getting the win in convincing fashion.

Another noteworthy result in that race was David Lally coming in fourth and thereby scoring enough points to move up a racing category to A3.

Well done to everyone who made the trip west to race on what is generally considered a tough and hilly circuit.


                             David Lally, Tosh Kiernan, Seamus Moran & Padraig Moran before their races on Sunday

Wheelers Support Shannonside


Six wheelers made the trip to the south of the county to cycle in the Shannonside ’Tour of the Heartland’ at the weekend.

In an incentive that has been going on for a number of years, the club paid the entry fee of all members who rode the sportive in an effort to support one of our local cycling clubs each year.

                                                       The Wheelers who travelled to take part in the Shannonside sportive

Midland League Comes to Dalystown


This Thursday evening round three of the Midland League (MIL) will be held at the usual HQ of Wallaces pub, Dalystown.

The club always has big numbers racing in the MIL and this year is no exception. There is plenty to get excited about as racers in LSW colours have been going very well this year and a few no doubt will want to secure the win on home turf.

The League is again sponsored by OE Bikes and business owner, Stephen Franzoni, is our club rep at this important league. As we are hosting this Thursday's race a call out for support by way of marshals and other help has been put out on the Wheelers Racing FB page. Reply to Stephen's post there or message him directly to offer help if you are free. Marshal briefing is at 6.30 at Wallaces pub.

As mentioned in the notes, a Midlands team has been set up to race in the RAS and contains a LSW rider, Stuart Cox, and this team was officially launched last week at the MIL race in Castledaly.

If you want to find out more about results, upcoming races, etc.,check out the Midland league Facebook page


Notes 19/03/2023

Wheelers Racers Start Their Season


The fast men of Lakeside Wheelers cycling club got their season underway around the roads of Wilkinstown, Co. Meath on March fifth, competing for honours in one of the early road races hosted by Navan Road Club. There were two from Lakeside competing; Stuart Cox raced in the very competitive A2 race and finished strongly in the bunch while in the A4 race, a novice to open road racing, Neil McDermott finished a very commendable 7th place and picked his first points by placing so well. 

The following weekend the action turned to the Newbridge GP where once again two Wheelers took part. It was the new man to racing that once again impressed by coming home in ninth place in the A4 race. Also racing in Newbridge was Tosh Kiernan who raced in his first race of the season. This proved to be a flier from the start with riders being dropped within the first few kilometers. Tosh hung in with the main bunch finishing just behind the eventual winner on a hilly and windy seventy kilometer circuit. 

Last weekend the action was in Drogheda for the Boyne GP. The number of Lakeside Wheelers taking part in the A4 race rose to three with Neil McDermott improving on his two previous showings by coming home in fourth place this time. Only two positions behind him was Paul Murtagh in sixth. David Lally finished a little further in the pack as he gets his racing legs back for the season ahead. The lads raced on a hilly route with over seven hundred metres of climbing for sixty three kilometers raced.

Stuart Cox competed in the fast A1/A2 race and placed well up in the main bunch and there was another good showing from Tosh Kiernan securing a top twenty finish in the A3 race. 

Well done to everyone who has raced so far. It's an impressive showing from the club and proves the racing scene is once again going strongly. 


Tosh Kiernan in Newbridge                                                           Neil McDermott Leading at Navan

Paul Murtagh at the Boyne GP


Notes 12/02/2023

Seeing The Light

Over the last while I've been reading more and more cases of road cyclists being involved in accidents with vehicles on public roads while commuting or training. These stories are from all over the world. Fitting a set of lights, front & rear, to your bike is the best way to help keep yourself safe while on the road whether you are on your own or in a group ride - regardless of weather conditions.


This weekend we change into Summertime and lots of us will choose to leave the turbo trainer and get back out on the road again for a midweek spin on our own or with a small group. 


I was taken by a recent article I read online where pro cyclists have launched a movement where they urge cyclists to "Be Bright, Wear a Light" every single spin you take. So aware are the pros of the need to be as visible as possible that wearing front/rear lights is now common practice while training.


The link to that article is here:- click here for 


Safe Cycling and as ever, keep 'er lit.


Notes 19/02/2023


Remembering Donie Kelleher 


Lakeside Wheelers members were very saddened last week to hear of the untimely passing following a

short illness of our dear friend and past President, Donie Kelleher.


Donie, a native of Tralee in Co. Kerry and a retired member of An Garda Siochana was a valued member

of the club for several years and his influence spread far and wide. In the early years Donie rode with the

club on the weekly spins and was a great supporter of all our events from the GP to the Tour of the

Lakes, Sprocket Rocket, social events and everything in between, Donie was ever present with his trusted

camera and nobody was safe from his eagle eye.


In 2014 we were very proud to be awarded the chance to host the National Elite cycling championships

and Donie was a vital cog in the committee that organised this prestigious event. His experience with the

Traffic Corps in An Garda Siochana proved invaluable on the weekend of the race as a fatal road accident

in the area led to the postponement of some of the races. In the ensuing years Donie was given the honour

of representing Lakeside Wheelers as club President, a role he took on with great pride and enthusiasm.


Due to some health issues in recent years Donie restricted his cycling to smaller groups but he actually

increased his involvement in the sport as a photographer. He could be seen at races the length and breadth

of the country always togged out in his Lakeside Wheelers gilet and cameras slung across his shoulder.

From time to time he clearly used his famous gentle ways of persuasion and blagged his way to getting a

“Press” jacket and so, could access all areas. However, no matter what stars of the sport he was

surrounded by, Donie always sought out the Lakeside Wheelers or local riders and spectators from the

midlands and duly snapped them. His support of the Midland League series of races was unprecedented,

hardly ever missing an evening regardless of which club was hosting and it is in this arena that his passion

for cycling combined with his ability to capture a great action shot will be very sorely missed.


Unfortunately Donie took his final journey last Tuesday morning when he was laid to rest after 11am

mass at the church of the Immaculate Conception in Rochfortbridge. A large gathering of Lakeside

Wheelers members were very proud to form a guard of honour as his funeral cortege passed through the streets of

his adopted hometown.


Donie will be sorely missed by his wife Caroline, son, Daniel, daughter, Lesley, grandchildren, Mae,

Billy and Danny, sisters, Marie, Margaret and Jackie, brother, James and an extended family circle to

whom deepest sympathy is extended.

And so, the final stage of Donie’s race has come. Ride on Donie, you will forever be in our thoughts and

here’s hoping your heavenly friends are cycling fans and are not camera shy.


Wheelers hit the hills in Meath 

Last Sunday the A groups met at the slightly earlier time of 08.30am as their training stepped up a level.

This will be the case for the next two Sundays and it allows for the riders to get some focused leg

strength training in preparation for the upcoming race season.

The route planned by the team leaders saw the peloton leave the clubhouse as one then split into two

separate groups at Taughmon Church.


From here it was a constant barrage of rolling hills as they made their way to Crookedwood,

Collinstown, and Dromone before climbing Lough Crew from two sides. The slightly rougher back slope

is challenging leaving the legs well tested as the groups then had to tackle it on the front side which,

although better surfaced is still a hard hill to climb.


Thankfully it was a beautiful mild and dry morning as the route then wound its way around a network of

back roads near the Cavan border en route to the coffee stop in Oldcastle.

With everybody fully refreshed and refuelled the groups departed for the final 40km home via

Dromone, Collinstown and Crookedwood where once again the hills sapped any energy left in the legs.

So, that was the first of three hard weeks and there is no doubt the Sunday roast was well earned after a

tough 105km ride.


Thanks to everyone for adhering to winter rules and having their bikes in very good condition for the

slightly rougher back roads. It must be the first time ever we had no punctures in the hills around

Oldcastle.


Some of the A group atop Lough Crew, Co. Meath

Notes 23/01/2023


Dylan in action


2023 National Cyclo-cross Championships


Sunday 16th January saw the culmination of the 2022/23 cyclo-cross season with the national champs held in Bellurgan, Dundalk.


The venue is a permanent track hosted by Bellurgan wheelers and open all year round. Set in twelve acres of old farm pasture, the course has been created to have lots of features to test riders. There are sand pits to ride through and lots of twists and turns as would be expected from this type of event. Just for fun there are a few testing short climbs which are often very slippery lacking any grip at all which means riders have to dismount and literally run up them with their bike over their shoulder.


Many races have already been held there during the season so no major surprises were expected. However the sheer number of people in attendance to support and race throughout the day was great to see and shows how strong CX is at the moment.


Only two Mullingar Lakeside Wheelers made the journey to compete. Myself (Steven) and Dylan Franzoni headed up early Sunday morning to do battle. Ex Wheeler David Casserly from Castlepollard raced the Senior event.


As the old man of the duo I didn’t have great expectations for the day. A lingering back issue nearly stopped play but I persisted on regardless. My race was the M40, and one of the biggest fields of the day. After a slow start I ploughed on to take twentieth place. My physique doesn’t lend itself well to slogging through mud and sometimes running with your bike but I love it all the same. An hour later I was exhausted.


With little time to rest I changed and prepared to help Dylan from the pit lane in his race. Dylan is much more competitive and was racing to try and get a top ten. He races with a spare bike in a pit area that he can choose to change mid race if he has a mechanical or his bike is getting too muddy. I then have to wash and prep the bike so that it's ready to go back out again if the need arises. Some races this can be every half lap and requires some effort and timing to achieve.


Sunday was quiet in the pit lane though. After his usual fast start, Dylan settled into the top ten. A few riders clawed their way past and a three way battle for eleventh ensued for the next three laps. Dylan couldn’t afford to pit and change bikes unless his competitors did the same as you lose too much time. So a wise head kept him racing on for an eventual twelve place.


Without doubt this was Dylan's best race of the season and the twenty second time difference between the four laps showed his great control. Although he didn’t achieve the result he wanted he should be proud.


With the CX season now over Dylan will focus on some down time for a few weeks and get back to some football training. The bikes will be completely stripped and serviced and changed over to gravel bikes until next September.


The bike training will be changed to get ready for the summer road racing and maybe some last big challenges as a junior, Dylan will turn senior in September 2023.


Report Credit:- Steven Franzoni



Anto Nolan R.I.P.


In early January we lost Anto Nolan after some time spent with serious illness. Both Anto and his wife Nuala cycled for many years with the D group and while taking up cycling later in life, he really took a shine to the sport and enjoyed the social aspect of group spins as well. He was an extremely popular club member who will be fondly remembered and sadly missed. The club held a guard of honour for Anto and a minute's silence was observed at the start of the club's spins that weekend.



Club Spin Report


Conditions for cycling have been pretty awful for the last few weeks with either heavy rain and high winds or severe frost dominating. While last Sunday's conditions were far from ideal, there were plenty of Wheeler's at the Barracks happy to be able to get out for a spin at last. Two A groups and one B group were formed.

Group leader for the As ( and clubman of the year ) Mark Horohoe was determined to get his charges to experience some of his now legendary early January spins and with over 100 Kms and nearly 800 metres of climbing they got just that as they left Mullingar for some of the remoter spots in Co. Longford . 


Over with the B group things were a little calmer and flatter as Eugene and friends stayed on the low roads to Tullamore and back via the back roads thereby keeping exposure to traffic at a minimum. Well that was the hope but sometimes even a borreen on a Sunday morning can be busier than expected and the correct call was issued several times to 'single out' to ensure the safety of all. Well done to everyone who turned out at the weekend. 


Hopefully those returning members who we haven't seen on a bike for a while now will continue to come out at the weekend and build fitness while enjoying the social chat, after all that's what club life is all about. 


Speaking of which, if you still have not renewed your membership for 2023 please do so as soon as possible. Renew by logging into your account on the Cycling Ireland website.


If you wish to join Lakeside Wheelers or find out more about what we do then please contact secretary@lakesidewheelers.ie 




Notes 18/12/2022


That's a wrap for 2022....


Thanks to everyone who got out on their bikes whether it was to race, to get fit/faster or just to enjoy group companionship or even if you came out to join in on our social occasions - it all made 2022 a wonderful club year and we are looking forward to an even better one in 2023.

We hope you'll make it along to the annual Turkey Trot which will depart from the Barracks at 10.00 on Tuesday 27th bound for Tyrellspass golf club.

There will be no club spins on Sunday, December 25th.

Finally, wishing everyone a Happy Christmas and a healthy and prosperous 2023.


Worlds Cup CX Comes to Dublin

Sunday 11th of December will be a day to remember for anyone who attended the first cyclo-cross World Cup to be held in Ireland in the Sports Ireland grounds in Abbotstown, Dublin. A very cold and icy day welcomed eight thousand spectators and a top field of the worlds elite men and women's racers.

The three kilometer course was was to be a challenge for the riders with technical climbs and descents along with fast straight sections. Add to that a thawing ground and mud beginning to soften up it was set to be an afternoon of fun for all.

Earlier in the morning local Lakeside Wheeler Dylan Franzoni lined up to race the junior support race. With UCI ranking points up for grabs the field was stacked with talent. Top international riders had flown in from the UK to compete.

Dylans race kicked off at eleven and the ground was still firm from the frost and racing was fast from the outset. Gridded on the third row Dylan started well and managed to be up in the top half of the field going into the five lap race. He kept charging throughout the forty five minute race. Only tearing his brake lever off in a brush with the barriers could slow him down towards the end of the last lap. He managed a very credible fourteenth place and was happy with his performance.

His season comes to an end in January with the national champs and gradual progression up the ranks over the last few months is testament to his hard work in the background.

In the early afternoon the ladies Elite race took place the ground was now starting to thaw but this didn't slow anyone down. Among many highlights of the day was the roar from the crowds for the ladies Irish Champion Maria Larken as she raced. She later commented how she was blown away by the support she received. It must have been very off putting for her competitors. The lead riders put on a masterclass of skill and speed which was inspiring to watch.

The final race was the men's and featured most of the worlds best athletes. Only one top rider a certain Mr Mathieu van der Poel was missing due to a training camp in Spain. Otherwise we were set to see a show down between Wout van Aert and Tom Pidcock (world champion), two of the top riders in CX and also on the road. As the race started it was obvious they and the rest of the field were not going to let anyone down and the next hour saw a race filled with drama.

At times CX can be boring as a rider will solo away early on to victory. Dublin was not like this the racers battled and the lead constantly changed. The spectators made so much noise that riders commented post race. They had rarely experienced so much support outside of CXs home in Belgium and the Netherlands. A very muddy battled ensued and Wout van Aert came out the victor in the end. He managed to nearly loose the race after a towel got caught up in his gears right in front of us. But a quick bike change and chase down got him back in contention.

Another great part of CX is how close you can get to the action and the riders. We had the pleasure of meeting ex world champion Lars van der Haar who set up his camper van and crew next to us in the car park. Watching his mechanics prepare and clean down his bike was amazing to see. Lars posed for photos and talked to anyone who came for autograph. There are few sports you can get so close to your heroes.

Clubman Ian Lambden also raced the previous day in wet and extremely mucky conditions on a very long course. Testing conditions certainly and after a hectic hours racing he came home in 10th placing. Very consistent racing from Ian this year. 

A great day out was had with many Wheeler's in attendance. This is an event not to be missed if it comes back next year.

Report Credit:- Steven Franzoni

Notes 04/12/2022

Club Social & Awards 

 

Our annual club social and awards evening was held on Saturday evening last, December 3rd in the Annebrook Hotel, Mullingar.

It proved to be another great evening's entertainment for everyone. Live music and finger food along with a few novelty items being passed around meant things were never dull.

Members from all the cycling groupings came out to have a good night.


Congratulations to our three award winners on the evening.


They were:-

Club person of the year:-   Mark Horohoe

Most improved rider:-        David Lally

Best newcomer:-               Martin Nally


Well done to all three deserving recipients.

 

CX Race Report

 

On Sunday 4th of December Ian Lambden made the trip to Armagh for Rd 8 of the Ulster cyclocross league. Sitting in a field of around 40 riders, Ian was gridded on the second row for the start but unfortunately immediately dropped a chain which had him in last place going into the first corner. Showing huge determination and with six laps remaining he managed to pass riders as he worked his way from last place up to 4th by the end but unfortunately just couldn’t catch the top 3 who were working well together to stay clear. Really a great result given the circumstances.


Our next get-together will be the Turkey trot on December 27th, leaving the barracks at 10.00 for Tyrrellspass Golf Club.


You should log on to Cycling Ireland now and renew your club membership for 2023 if you haven’t already done so.

Thank you for continuing to support your club.

Notes 27/11/2022

Cyclocross Race at Belvedere 20/11/2022

On Sunday last, Lakeside Wheelers were given the honour of hosting round five of the Leinster league of Cyclocross. This all-day event took place in the grounds of Belvedere House & Gardens. Because we only secured access to the grounds quite recently, there was a huge amount of work to get through in a short space of time in order to get ready for race day. Steven Franzoni took on the role as race director. Together with a small team of club members, the course was fashioned out of a grass and forested area at Belvedere’s grounds. This was nothing short of a massive club effort and what was achieved is an example of a club working together owards a specific goal. Testament to this was how well everything ran on race day and the positive feedback received. People who raced in different courses throughout the province and beyond were extremely complimentary of the course which Steven designed. There was racing for U6’s right up to U16’s with the Horohoe, Lally, Tyrrell, Alshawib & Van Beck clans all represented with quite a bit of medal metal distributed. Afterwards the juniors, senior women and men categories were run off without incident. The club had several representatives in these categories with Dylan Franzoni scoring the fist unplaced junior spot after going out very quickly from the off. Well done to everyone who raced. With the last of the racers leaving the grounds the LSW crew assembled once again to dismantle the extensive 2 KM+ course. This was a really enjoyable event to be involved in for the organisers, spectators and racers alike. Hopefully it won’t be too long before we get out to Belvedere in a club capacity for more CX fun.

AGM

Last Friday we held our AGM in the Greville Arms Hotel, Mullingar. Presentations were given by the officers of the club. Club secretary Ed Tyrrell gave a summary of the month by month minutes thereby giving an account of the main points covered off by the committee during the year. Then Ulrika Maher took us through the club's financial situation. In the absence of Seamus Clarke, Paul Gibney summarised the events which the club hosted in 2022. John Farrell covered the youth/junior scene within the club and finally Tosh Kiernan took us on a trip back in time aided by lots of Donie Kellegher's photos, recalling the races in which members competed during the year. There were no motions debated this year. The new committee for 2022/2023 was voted in. The new committee is:-

Chairperson:-              Ed Tyrrell

Secretary:-                  Ulrika Maher

Treasurer:-                  Pearse Murphy

P.R.O:-                         Paul Gibney

Youth/Safeguarding:- Breda Brady

Events:-                       Seamus Clarke

Committee Member 1:-   Tosh Kiernan

Committee Member 2:-   Eddie Hynes

 

A sincere thank you to the outgoing committee was expressed by outgoing chairperson Paul Gibney. He then went on to thank the general membership for their support of the club and thanked the group leaders and everyone who helped out at events/races. He mentioned the club is in a very healthy position generally with overall membership just below 200.

December Dates

Don't forget the club social & awards evening in the Annebrook House Hotel on Saturday December 3rd from 8.00pm. Music, finger food and plenty of laughs guaranteed...bring your A game. The Turkey Trot will depart the Barracks on December 27th at 10.00 am for Tyrellspass Golf Club where we will be fortified by coffee/tea and plenty of fresh scones.

Notes 30/10/2022

Bike Donation

Colm Yeates and family from Mullingar kindly donated 6 children’s bikes to the Ukranian refugee effort. Pearse Murphy PRO Lakeside Wheelers delivered these to Ms Pauline Joyce manager of Maple Court refugee centre in Castlepollard recently.

Cyclocross

Ian Lambden and Dylan Franzoni represented Lakeside Wheelers at the recent Verge Cyclo Event in Clonmel Co Tipperary. This was a UCI elite event. The weather wasn’t looking good, when on the start line the heavens opened and continued to hammer down for the duration of the race. The race contained some of the best riders in UK and Ireland. Ian Lambden battled for position in mid-pack for the first 4 laps, then unfortunately just didn’t have the pace to stay with the big boys from the UK but it was an excellent experience for Ian. Dylan Franzoni also had his battles with the weather in the junior race but finished very well mid-pack.

AGM

Club AGM is on Friday, November 18th at 7 pm in the Greville Arms Hotel.

Winter Cycling.

All members should have full wraparound mudguards and a rear light when taking part in club spins during the winter months.

Notes 16/10/2022

Bike Donation

Pearse Murphy PRO Lakeside Wheelers presents a bike to 7 year old Anhelina from Ukraine accompanied by Ms Pauline Joyce manager of Maple Court refugee centre in Castlepollard. This bike was kindly donated by the Cosgrave family from Ballinderry in Mullingar. If you have any children’s or adult’s bikes which you would like to donate, please contact Pearse on 0872909365.

A Group Notes

The A group assembled at the Clubhouse on Sunday morning last and headed west towards Ballymore on what was a crisp dry morning. Winter cycling gear was evident to be seen with that cold feeling in the air. We picked up a "stray" B group member just before Loughnavalley to bring numbers up to 14. We headed left towards Rosemount only for the puncture fairy to strike; club members circled around the unfortunate to make sure he didnt get his hands too dirty. We then cycled through Streamstown and across back roads to Kilbeggan for the break. With everyone fed and watered we rolled onto Durrow, turned at the church over towards Rahugh, Tyrellspass, Rochfortbridge and home via Gainstown. A good rolling 86km was completed at the relaxed pace of just over 28kph. With days and evenings becoming somewhat darker, it would be advisable that all club members use a rear flashing red light, an essential part of a cyclists kit. We wish Mark Monaghan a speedy recovery from an accident on Saturday morning last. Also best wishes to Club racer John Boyne who recently headed on his travels to Melbourne, enjoy the experience John.

National Hill Climbing Championships

Lakeside Wheelers were represented by Mr Brendan Kiernan at the national hill climbing championships hosted by Island Wheelers in Dungannon County Tyrone recently. Brendan performed well in the event and was not far off a podium finish.

Notes 09/10/2022

Cyclocross Kicks into High Gear

This weekend winter cycling cross country kicked into gear for Lakeside Wheelers both young and not so young. The action moved to Drewstown House just outside Clonmellon where it was the turn of Oldcastle Cycling Club  to run round one of the Leinster Cyclocross league. The club was represented by Sebastian Tyrrell, Ruari and Katie Horohoe in the U 10 race and later by Daniel Horohoe in the U 14 event. All did very well and finished strongly mid pack. No doubt they will learn from their experience on the tough circuit that is Drewstown. 

Later on Peter Rimmer togged out in the club colours in the senior B race. Having already completed a number of longer gravel type events both here and in the UK, this was no bother at all to him. Unlucky to miss out on the podium places, we will no doubt see more from Peter in the coming weeks.

Onto the senior men’s A race where the club had a good representation of youth and experience. The youthful side coming from Dylan Franzoni who is still in a junior rider and who was fronting up to compete with some of Ireland‘s best talent. Richie Lenehan is the more experienced of this duo and both riders set off strongly from the start. Podium places were missed out on but both lads are showing some great early-season form.

Well done everybody today and maybe we will get more riders out to Cyclocross races around the area this Autumn and Winter.


Notes 02/10/2022

Wheelers Ease Off The Pace

The transition from summer training into our winter training plan is well underway. Groups are cutting back on both distance and average speeds on the weekend spins. This time of year of course is an ideal time for returning cyclists to join up with their cycling groups again and renew old acquaintances.

Club Bike Orienteering Event Next Sunday 09/10/2022

A club bike orienteering event will take place next Sunday from 9:30 in Columb Barracks. We are inviting all members of the club i.e. riders from all groups A,B,C and D to  attend this fun social event. Teams will be formed on the day and a treasure hunt type of event testing each team’s typographical knowledge of Westmeath will ensue. Tea’s / coffees supplied at start and finish. Look forward to seeing you all there. So, get the chain oil out and let’s go.

The passing of Michael Byrne

Last week the very sad news came through about the death of Michael Byrne, Lynn, Mullingar. Michael was a member of the club many years ago. More recently he was involved with long distance running and triathlon. May he rest in peace.

Notes 25/09/2022

A & B Groups

The period of lovely autumn weather continued into the weekend and as we gathered at HQ for a 9.00 rollout. Group leader Mark Horohoe addressed everybody and reminding them that the transition to slower autumn and winter spins commences next week. The A group had a slightly longer route planned at 100km. We set off on our way which took in Abbeyshrule, Glasson for the coffee stop, Mount Temple, Rosemount, then onto Streamstown and home. The group was well spread out following the last kick for home!

It was a chilly start to this Autumn spin as the well-attended B group left the army barracks at 9am. Long sleeves and gloves were the order of the day. The pace was fast and we made quick time through the towns of Coole and Lismacaffrey towards the tea stop in Ballinalack. After refuelling, we were back on the bikes to Ballinacargy then taking a sharp right to test the legs up Laragh hill. 80km was on clock as we returned to Mullingar with smiles on our faces and the wind on our back.

If you are considering joining or re-joining the club after a long break than from now on is the perfect time as the overall pace and distances of our club cycles will be easing back allowing you to regain fitness with your group. Email secretary@lakesidewheelers.ie for more information on how to join us.

Is Your Bike Winter Ready?

The Autumn/Winter program is not far away now and with that comes the necessity to have a full wraparound rear mudguard for all club spins. Front and rear lights are also necessary. If you haven’t used your winter bike since last season perhaps you could consider having it serviced before it embarks on another Winter season.

Notes 4/11/09/2022

SPROCKET ROCKETS UPDATE

The Club recently introduced the Sprocket Rocket programme for children. The aim of the programme is to provide a strong cycling foundation in skills development and foster enjoyment in cycling. The emphasis of the programme over the coming 4 weeks will be to nurture and develop pedalling, balance, braking and cornering skills. The course is now complete. The picture attached shows the participants receiving their sprocket rocket certificates. Well done to all involved.

Charleville Two Day Road Race

On the weekend of 3rd and 4th September all roads lead to the Charleville 2-day road race. Lakeside Wheelers had a team of five competing in the A2/A3 race. The team consisted of Tosh Kiernan, Stuart Cox, Mike Cafferkey, Ian Lambden and Mikey Flaherty. We were represented in A4 by Ronan Bracken. All the lads represented the club very well and placed well in their respective groups. The weather thankfully was decent for racing which is always a bonus. This now concludes the racing for this year. Roll on the 2023 season. A special word of thanks go to Moss Keane and Billy Cunnane for doing race support. Well done to all.

B Group Regroup

It was a bit like welcome back strangers in the B group as some old heads fresh from their exploits overseas came back into the LSW fold and under the guidance of Eugene Duffy last Sunday. It was a lovely relaxing (sort of for some ) spin in nice Autumn sunshine despite some dire warnings from Met Eireann earlier in the weekend. A little over 80Km recorded through some rolling Westmeath countryside.

Final Wednesday Evening Spin

This Wednesday coming, September 7th will be the last of the midweek summer spins as we move into Autumn. We’ve had a good Summer of cycling conditions so fingers crossed we can finish this week on another good one.

The Club Christmas Party

The Club Christmas Party and awards night set for Saturday December 3rd in the Annebrook House Hotel.

Notes 28/08/2022

Some Wheelers Go Gravel Biking

Summer’s end means that the off-road cycling season starts as road racing events come to an end.  Gravel Cycling is a big in the US and is growing in popularity over here as well. On Saturday last Paul Murtagh, Paul Gibney and Peter Rimmer (pictured) headed west to Moycullen in Galway to take part in the newest gravel event to be held in the country, The Galway Gravel Grinder.  They opted to ride the longest route, aptly named The Epic.  A 125Km circuitous route around the forests, lanes, and wind turbines in that part of the county. It was a pretty tough day on the bike with over 5 1/2 hours of cycling needed to get around the full course. With quality food at all feed stations, some great scenery and a demanding course means all three are looking forward to returning in 2023.

A group of happy wheelers (pictured) took to the Slieve Blooms and annual Pat Colgan Cycling at the weekend.

Great result for Brendan Kiernan (LSW) who took second in the Leinster Road Race and Trader’s Cup over 50’s category.


Notes 21/08/2022

OE Bikes Midlands League Finale

Just a quick note to thank and congratulate everyone or another wonderful  year’s racing at the OE Bikes Midlands League. The league included cyclists from clubs from all over the midlands including the likes of Lakeside Wheelers Mullingar, Longford Cycling Club, Shannonside Cycling Club, Streamstown Cycling Club and others. Thanks to everyone who gave their time to marshal and for helping with the organising of our 2 events hosted by Lakeside Wheelers in Dalystown. Without this excellent support, it would not be possible to run these events. Thanks to Steven Franzoni from OE Bikes in Mullingar for his continued sponsorship of our league and also to the Lakeside Wheelers Committee  for their support throughout the season. Great to see so many newcomers this year. It was challenging at times to keep the racing competitive but I think as a collective the year this was very successful. We are delighted to announce that Mikey Flaherty Lakeside Wheelers took first place in the A category. With Ian Lambden taking second in the B race and Moss Keane taking 3rd.  Stewart Cox took the combativity award in the A race.  

SPROCKET ROCKETS UPDATE

The Club recently introduced the Sprocket Rocket programme for children. The aim of the programme is to provide a strong cycling foundation in skills development and foster enjoyment in cycling. The emphasis of the programme over the coming 4 weeks will be to nurture and develop pedalling, balance, braking and cornering skills. The coaches from the Club have undergone extensive training with Cycling Ireland accredited tutors and have the necessary Garda vetting and Safeguarding certification. As can be evidenced from the photo the kids had a very enjoyable first session and are all geared up for next week’s activities.

Notes 14/08/2022

Former Wheeler Aaron Wade's success in France

Aaron Wade (former Lakeside Wheeler) took his biggest career win in France to-date, last Sunday when he was best in the final sprint to the line that settled the honours in GP Christian Fenioux-Souvenir Gilles-Malard. Wade who now cycles with Team U Cube 17, a French professional outfit, got a great lead-out from his team on the testing finish, with the riders sweeping downhill just before the prolonged drag up to the line. Once the Irish rider’s last lead-out man was done, Wade (20) took charge on the front with a very impressive finishing kick to secure victory.

National Championships

The National Masters Cycling Champs for 60's ; 50's ; 40's ; Ladies and A3's were held in Knockaderry, Limerick on 07.08.22 Lakeside Wheelers were well represented in all but the Ladies race and had some 'back up crew' on hand. Results were mixed but, alas, no podium finishes. Some are nursing a few bumps and bruises and repairing some damaged bikes but all hope to try again next year. Well done lads.

C-Group

A large bunch of C riders, 15 in all, enjoyed continental like conditions on their spin this week. Exiting the barracks we took the link road south. Crossing Joe Dolan we joined the N52 at Lynn and headed for Tyrrellspass. At Dalystown we turned left onto Castlelost road and into Rochfortbridge. From there we headed south past Derrygreenagh into Rhode and onto Mount Lucas. This was a bumpy part of the spin where Paris-Roubaix like cobble conditions were mirrored by the bog road. Back on terra-firma in Mount Lucas we headed for Daingean and on northwards to Tyrrellspass for a delightful tea / coffee and scone in the Castle. From there it was a straight forward run north on the N52 back to base – where some parched members of the peloton enjoyed a lovely 99. Well done all a nice 74 kms on the clock at a good steady lick.

Notes 07/08/2022

Wheelers do their bit for the Fleadh

Lakeside Wheelers members put their shoulder to the wheel by helping out at the Fleadh this week. Their task over the 3 days of competition on August 6,7 and 8 was to service the 16 competition venues spread over schools, halls and hotels throughout the town. They were required to courier results from these venues to the Fleadh head office in the centre of town. This was achieved seamlessly by our fit and agile young and not so young members who demonstrated their silken skills while navigating the vast crowds throughout the town. Well done lads take a bow. Niall McDermott one of the dream team is shown here with a broad smile on his face awaiting ceili band and groupai ceoil results in the Park Hotel. The Park Hotel was a huge venue with crowds of over 2000 attendees each day.

C Group Notes

Our C group tackled a nice 100 KMs route this week. Starting from O’Briens Centra Mullingar they took the ring road to the Park Hotel. Then via Curraghmore they headed for Killucan and on into Ballivor. Next they cruised into Trim for the cup of cha. Well fed and watered they headed for Athboy and Delvin where they turned south for home. Well done lads and lassies a mighty spin of a Saturday.

Notes 31/07/2022

Lakeside Wheelers Blooming

On a Sunday sunny morning while the rest of us welcomed Michael D Higgins our president to open the Fleadh which has come home to Mullingar much like soccer has come home to England curtesy of the ladies, 9 hardy B cyclists took the annual pilgrimage to the Slieve Bloom mountains in Offaly. Having set up base camp in Kinnity the group started their climbing expedition up the Cut a nice 5 kms drag to warm up the legs and the lungs. Having descended the Cut at breakneck speed in the light air they then tackled the steeper Wolftrap climb before parachuting back into Kinnity for a well earned cut of cha. Fed and watered they then tackled the route in reverse order. Finishing with 92kms on the clock and 1300 metres climbing this group are well set to conquer the Pat Colgan in a months time over similar terrain.

Lakeside Wheelers Mountain Biking

Richie Lenihan  LSW and Steven Franzoni of OE Bikes and LSW showed very well in a recent mountain bike event in Mullaghmeen an isolated area of forest rising above the farm land of north Westmeath. Mullaghmeen Forest is the largest planted beech forest in Ireland. Along with beech, within its 400 hectares of forest it also has Sitka spruce, Scots pine and Noble fir and a very interesting native tree collection. The summit of Mullaghmeen provides magnificent views north across Lough Sheelin and into the neighbouring county of Cavan. Well done lads.

Notes 17/07/2022

Lakeside Wheelers Host Mullingar Grand Prix 17/07/2022

Lakeside Wheelers once again hosted the Mullingar Grand Prix on a beautiful sunny Sunday. The course was the usual tried and trusted one. Starting in the village of Multyfarnham the riders headed east towards Crookedwood. In Crookedwood they headed north and took the hilly drag up to Whitehall and on onto Castlepollard. From there they turned west past Tullynally Castle towards Coole. From Coole they turned south across the bog back into Multyfarnham. This adds up to a 34 kms circuit with over 180 metres climbing all-in. There were three races on the day. A1/A2 (or as we like to call them the big boys) who completed 4 circuits. The A3 race consisted of 3 laps and finally the A4 race which comprised 2 laps. This circuit circumnavigates Lough Derravaragh and with the heat of the day in the mid-twenties and average speeds of up to 45 kph I’m sure many of the cyclists would not have minded taking a dip to cool down after their endeavours. There was a great entry with in excess of 140 cyclists signing on for the days racing from all over the country. Here are some of the results. A1 race was won by Daire Feeley (All human VeloRevolution Cycling Team) who broke away on the first lap and stayed away all race. Aaron Wade (Team U Cube) was second, with Gareth O Neill (Caldwell Cycles) in third position. Charlie Holt (Roadman CC) won the A2 race with Shane Quinn (Longford CC) in second place and Alan Mackey (Spin II CC) in third. Stuart Cox (Lakeside Wheelers CC) featured well in A1/A2 race in the bunch. Patrick Ennis (Unattached) won the A3 race with James O’Rourke (SSCC) in second place and Tony Barnes (South  East CC) in third place. Brendan (Tosh) Kiernan (Lakeside Wheelers CC) finished in an excellent fifth place in the race, taking the bunch sprint, with Richie Lenihan and Ian Lambden (Lakeside Wheelers CC) showing well in the peloton. Daire Farrell (Swords CC) won the A4 race with Michael Cafferkey (Lakeside Wheelers CC) in a superb second place, pipped by a tyre width on the line, with Robert Bowen (St Tiernans CC) in third place. Shane Grace (Lakeside Wheelers CC) finished in an excellent eight position in the race with Paul Murtagh, Seamus Killian, Seamus Moran and Moss Keane (Lakeside Wheelers CC) not far behind in the main group. Many thanks to all the cyclists who participated. Many thanks to committee from Lakeside Wheelers who organised and ran this thoroughly professional event. We wish to thank Grange Motors for sponsoring the races and Kenny’s Koal Cabin for providing the finishing line facilities. We would also like to thank Multyfarnham Community Centre for once again providing an excellent base for the races. Many thanks to the Gardai, Westmeath County Council and the Civil Defence for their logistical support. Also hats off once again to Donie Kelleher for his excellent photography on the day.

Notes 10/07/2022

Lakeside Wheelers to Host Mullingar Grand Prix Next Weekend

Lakeside Wheelers Mullingar are delighted to once again be back hosting the Mullingar GP. Fans of Irish cycling will know that this is one of the main races on the domestic calendar every year and as usual the event will be well marshalled and a good racing surface will be presented on the day. The 2022 race will be based out of Multyfarnham Community Centre (Eircode N91AX5A) with all races being staged over a 34km undulating route. Route map: https://connect.garmin.com/modern/course/112964446 We are promoting four separate races detailed as follows: A1/A2 will compete over 4 laps for a total distance of 136km. Prizes allocated 1st to 8th with a prize for the first unplaced A2. Ladies will compete over 2 laps totalling 68km with a prize structure matching the Men's A1/A2 event except for the Unplaced prize. A3's will face 3 laps totalling 102km with prizes for 1st to 8th. There will be a prize for the 1st Unplaced A3 OR Junior. A4's will race 2 laps totalling 68km and once again prizes will be awarded 1st to 8th. All of the above is contingent on sufficient numbers signing on. Racing will start at 11am and is strictly pre-entry only. You can now enter on the Cycling Ireland Event Master portal. Registration for all races will close at 21.00pm on Friday 15th July. All official club spins are cancelled next weekend. All club members please make yourself available to marshall / help-out on the day if around.

 

Ring of Kerry Charity Cycle Final Report

After a break of 2 years due to Covid a large group from Lakeside Wheelers descended on Killarney for the 180km charity cycle last weekend. Some of the group had done the event on a number of occasions but for a large number of the group, who had taken up cycling through the club's "introduction to cycling programme" this was their first experience of cycling such a distance, all in one day. The group departed Killarney at 5.45 a.m. on Saturday morning in wet conditions. The weather was un-kind for most of the section to Cahersiveen. When some of the group heard there was a tea stop they were not long in heading for a welcome cup of tea and sandwich. A hardy group continued onto Waterville. where  a lovely pub had been sourced and a warm fry, home made brown bread and a pot of tea was the order of the day. Once refreshed, it was the dreaded climb to Coomakista. It's hard to drive up in a car, never mind cycle a  bicycle up it. The reward is the amazing views of the Atlantic. From here it is a nice steady descent to Caherdaniel and onto Castlecove. The dreaded rain came back to haunt us and the rest of the cycle to Sneem was in torrential rain. Thankfully there was a well deserved tea stop to warm the body. Some of the group even went for an ice cream. Within 15 minutes of our departure from Sneem the weather beagan to clear up and while the skies didn't brighten the thought of no more rain was a comfort. On arrival in Kenmare, Brook Lane Hotel had a buffet table set up and a warm plate of chicken and pasta which was enjoyed by one and all. The chance for a quick rest also had its merits. The hardest part of the circuit lay ahead. Once you leave Kenmare you have the dreaded 9km climb to Molls Gap. By this stage the limbs are tired and the body fatigued. With great credit to everyone the group reached the summit. There are 2 extremes with reaching Molls Gap, the ascent is a slow drudge at 15/18km an hour. However the remaining decent is down hill at speeds that can be crazy if your not careful. Once you arrive back in Killarney the crowds lining the streets show their appreciation for your endeavours and their heart felt thanks to all the participants who had contributed to all of their worthwhile charities. To all of the Wheelers and particularly the first timers well done. When the saddle sores and muscle strains have recovered they might consider next year in the hope the weather might be kinder.


Notes 03/07/2022

OE Bikes - Midlands Interclub League (MIL) Results update from Dalystown 30/06/2022

The latest round of OE Bikes - Midlands Interclub League (MIL) was held on the fast Dalystown, Castletown-Geoghegan, Kilbeggan circuit and hosted by Lakeside Wheelers. Many thanks to all the volunteers and sponsors including OE Bikes and O’Briens Centra for a professionally run event. LSW Race Team showed very well in their home event. In the  A RACE 1: Mikey Faherty LSW 2: Stuart Cox LSW 3: Tosh Kiernan LSW 5: John Boyne LSW 10: Paul Murtagh LSW. In the B Race 1: Michael Cafferkey LSW 2: Cathal Woods LSW 9: Ian Lambden LSW. In the C RACE 8: Seamus Moran LSW.

Castlebar A2/3/4 Road Race 03/07/2022

LSW Race Team headed west last Sunday to Castlebar for the A2/3/4 Road Race over tough courses including distances of  79 and 60 kms. In the A2 RACE Ruari Woods finished in 10th with Start Cox in the bunch. In the A3 RACE Tosh Kiernan finished 7th with Ian Lambden not far behind in the top 15. In the A4 Race David Lally finished 4th with Mikey Cafferkey and Paul Murtagh tucked onto the bunch. Well done lads great racing.

Ring of Kerry Charity Cycle 02/07/2022

The Ring of Kerry Charity Cycle is one of the biggest charity cycles held in Ireland over the rolling hills of Kerry on a 170 kms circuit.  A large group of Lakeside Wheelers C and D riders travelled there this weekend and completed the mammoth course with aplomb – well done to all.

Notes 26/06/2022

National Junior Cycling Championships Kanturk Co Cork.

The men’s national junior cycling championship was held over a tough 119 kms course in Kanturk Co. Cork on 25/06/2022.The racing was fierce with breakaways and splits in the peloton throughout. These splits in the peloton made it very difficult to chase down the final breakaway group of 6 from which the winner eventually came. However, Mikey Flaherty of Lakeside Wheelers Race Team, seen in action above, finished an excellent 10th on a tough day in the saddle.

In the women’s junior race run over 59 kms, former Lakeside Wheeler Aoife O’Brien, now of Torelli-Assure-Cayman-Islands-Scimitar, finished in an excellent 2nd position.

OE Bikes - Midlands Interclub League (MIL) Results update from Horseleap 23/06/2022

In the latest round of OE Bikes - Midlands Interclub League (MIL) LSW Race Team showed very well. In the  A RACE 2: Stuart Cox LSW 4: John Boyne LSW. In the B Race 2: Ian Lambden LSW 3: David Lally LSW 4: Moss Keane LSW 5: Charlie Sheridan LSW 9: Paul Cronin LSW

Notes 19/06/2022

Ras Tailteann2022

Westmeath hosted stages 4 and 5 of the 2022 version of Ras Tailteann. These stages were hosted by Lakeside Wheelers and Esker Cycling Club. Picture shows Lakeside Wheelers President Shay O’Toole presenting Matteo Cigala form Italy with his prize after finishing 3rd in Stage 4. Lakeside Wheelers would like to thank the very generous financial donation made by Westmeath County Council which facilitated us hosting this prestigious stage of RAS Tailteann 2022.

C Group Notes

13 C riders assembled at HQ for their weekly spin. Unfortunately, we assembled outside as the Columb barracks were shut. We headed out the ring road and across the Joe Dolan bridge and out the N4. At Dalystown we turned right for Kilbeggan. From there we headed for Clara. Shortly before Clara we turned right through some undulating boreens to arrive on the Clara to Tullamore road. We took our pitstop in Tullamore, then headed for Rahugh into Tyrrellspass and on back to HQ. Over 80 kms on the clock. Many thanks to our group leader Ulrika for a very enjoyable route.

Notes 12/06/2022

Tour of the Lakes an Enormous Success

Lakeside Wheelers Club hosted their first Tour of The Lakes in 3 years this Sunday. There were over 150 entrants from clubs all over the midlands and further afield. Some towns and areas represented included Mullingar, Kilcock, Edenderry, Athlone, Ballyjamesduff and Oldcastle. Two routes 83 kms and 121kms were chosen around the lakes of north Westmeath and into Meath with a trip around Lough Bawn. Other lakes passed on these scenic routes were Lough Patrick, Lough Derravaragh and Lough Lene. With plenty of lumps and bumps along the routes, all who took part got a thorough workout on the day.  The participants were divided into 5 groups, 3 at various speeds for the 121 kms route and 2 ditto for the 83 kms route. Yours truly joined the 83kms @ 26 kph average. A short shower baptized us as we departed HQ in Columb Barracks. However, we soon shook off this initial wetting with a steady gallop, wind assisted, out the Castlepollard road. In Crookedwood we turned for Multifarnham ably assisted by our motorcycle outriders who guided us expertly through all the major road junctions in a seamless fashion. Thanks lads a professional job really well done. With group leaders Jack and Shay controlling the pace nicely we soon arrived at our food station in Ned’s Forge Fore having passed through Coole, Castlepollard and Collinstown. Here, we were replenished with beautiful sandwiches, copious teas and coffees and some excellent lemon drizzle cake.  Well-fed and watered we rolled out of Fore to tackle the hilliest part of the route in our circumnavigation of Lough Bawn.  Here conversation dipped as everyone went to their inner self for getting over the pesky hills. Back into Crookedwood, hills conquered, we soon were on the ring road and back at HQ. Many thanks to all involved in the organisation of the day. This sportive was professionally run and displayed the highways and bye-ways of north Westmeath in resplendent fashion to all our visitors. Finally, I would like to thank all our visitors for supporting Lakeside Wheelers Cycling Club.


Tosh Kiernan successful in Galway Criterium.

Tosh Kiernan represented Lakeside Wheelers Race Team in the Galway Bay Cycling Club criterium on 11/06/2022. The race was held over a tight course in Highfield Galway. With a high-class field and some fierce racing in the A3 race, Tosh did us proud by claiming 4th place.

Notes 05/06/2022

Tour Of Lakes 12/06/2022

All cycling enthusiasts don’t forget Lakeside Wheelers host the Tour of the Lakes next Sunday with 2 routes 83 kms & 120 kms. Sign on in Columb Barracks opens @ 9 am with rollout @10 am. Entry fee €20 with one day insurance fee for non-cycling Ireland members.

Club Etiquette

A gentle reminder that members should not try to assist other members while cycling uphill by placing a hand on the back or on the saddle as it can be both unwelcome and inappropriate to do so.

A Group Notes

There was a large turnout of Lakeside Wheelers for the weekend club spins despite our promised heatwave not been at all evident. Two A groups and a large B group met in club HQ last Sunday for the prescribed routes as plotted by Eugene Duffy and Mark Horohoe. Mark’s route was interesting as it took riders deep into Offaly country and onto roads which many of us had heretofore never known about.  Unfortunately rainy conditions did prevail for the first part of the spin and at times there wasn’t much chat amongst the group. We got into Edenderry where teas and coffee were had. Rolling back to base through Rhode, Rochfordbridge and home… 108 KM on the Garman with a shade over 30 Km average and oh did I mention the wind which was ever present – yes a typical days cycling in June!

C Group Notes

12 happy C Group cyclists rolled out of the Columb Barracks on a breezy Saturday morning. Pat our leader expertly guided us along the ring road onto the Ballymore road. With the wind on our backs, we swiftly sailed by Uisneach and into Ballymore. From there we turned south towards Moate. Mid-Westmeath looked resplendent on this sunny summer morning with the trees lining our route coming into full foliage. Having crossed a bog we arrived in Moate where we stopped for a welcome coffee and scone in Taur Ard Arts Centre. Well fed and watered we headed east to Tyrrellspass via Horsleap and Kilbeggan along the old N4. The headwind was tough on this section of the spin but with short 30 second up and overs the group worked like a well-oiled machine to reach Tyrrellspass without a hiccup. Along the way we picked up three intrepid  Marmotte cycling men fresh from Blooms hill training. Best of luck in July lads. From here we turned north along the backroads into Dalystown and onto Mullingar. 80kms on the clock with dinners well earned.

D Group Notes

Setting off from the barracks, an excited bunch of 16 riders headed for the Delvin road, it was quite windy, but we didn't let that bother us. With our group leader Pat at the helm, we turned off the Delvin road and pushed through the wind and the hills up into Clonkill, then Gigginstown. Passing through the picturesque village of Collinstown, the sun joined us then, on into Castlepollard. Another few hills, and a gusty entrance into Fore, we stopped off for the coffee & treats, with Sarita at 'Neds Forge'. All fuelled up, off we headed on a 'less hilly' although beautiful route through Drumcree, Turin and back onto the Delvin road, sailing all the way back home, with the sun and the wind behind us. Another great spin and some hill practice for next Sunday's 'tour of the Lakes'. Thanks once again to Pat and all the D's for a lovely enjoyable spin.


Notes 22/05/2022

Sprocket Rockets are Back

Lakeside Wheelers are delighted to confirm the very popular Sprocket Rockets programme will re-commence over the Summer. This programme focuses on delivering fundamental cycling skills that cater for size, physical development and interest. Most importantly the programme aims to provide the participant with the skills to cycle in a safe and controlled manner. It also provides a great introduction to our sport, raises the profile of cycling and provides a progressive skill programme which will develop stronger and better riders. In order to provide the most up to-date coaching and techniques, a group of Wheelers members took part in a recent Cycling Ireland Sprocket Rockets coaching day. With the assistance of Alan Heary - a Cycling Ireland performance Coach,  the group successfully completed the 1 day training. The group consisted of Eugene Duffy, Mark Monaghan, Karl Moran, Eddie Tyrrell, Gerry Wallace, Claire Lyster, Ulrika Maher & Breda Brady. (missing from the photo are David & Carmel Lally and Mark Horohoe). Further details of the dates and registration will be posted in the coming weeks.

D Group Notes

The D group have settled back into the Barracks and a large group assembled on Saturday morning. Pat Morrissey has taken on the role of Group leader and has everything planned to perfection. The route was detailed to all on the Friday night and Saturday morning, while cold was bright and clear. After the customary safety briefing we headed out the Longford road and down to Ballagh and onto the Delvin Road. It was not long before the dreaded puncture fairy struck. A quick tube change was carried out and it was not long before the group was heading cross country to Raharney. Pat has a twist in the tail and the group  headed down the back roads and onto Kinnegad. The Plaza was the stop for the well deserved doughnut and coffee.  When all were refreshed it was in the old Dublin road to Coralstown and a detour onto Russellstown and home to the barracks. A total of 62km. A warm welcome to Edward Ball who has joined us from Ballymahon. By all accounts it will not be long before he will be moving up to the C group.

B Group Notes

15 B Group cyclists rolled out of the Barracks on a grey overcast morning. After semi-circumnavigating Mullingar on the ring road out over the Joe Dolan bridge we headed for Tyrrellspass and on around Croghan hill into Rhode. From Rhode we headed to Edenderry wind assisted at a rate of knots. With everyone well warmed up we stopped in Edenderry for a welcome cup of coffee. Mother nature giveth and taketh away so the trip to Mount Lucas from Edenderry put manners on us with a strong headwind to contend with. However, when we turned north in Mount Lucas for home, we were soon flying again with the wind coming over our left shoulders. The road surface here as far as Rochfortbridge was something akin to the Paris-Roubaix cobblestones. Unfortunately, one of our brethren punctured – so our Group Leader Eugene kindly decided to let us ride on while he, John and Bernard looked after the stricken Clement. The rest of us stuck together as far as Gainstown where the final sprint for home ignited. 90 kms on the clock in the heel of the hunt. 

Notes 08/05/2022

Lakeside Wheelers Race Team perform well in the latest round of the OE Bikes Midlands League 05/05/2022

Lakeside Wheelers hosted the latest round of the OE Bikes Midlands League last Thursday on the fast Dalystown circuit. Lakeside Wheelers Race Team performed well in all three races. A Race Fifth Mickey Flaherty. B Race Third John Donaghue, Fifth Moss Keane, Sixth Paul Cronin, Seventh Charlie Sheridan, Eight Shane Grace, Ninth Seamus Killian.  C Race Third Eddie Hynes, Fourth Gyles Byford, Fifth Niall McDermott. Prime prizes A Race Ruari Woods B Race Shane Grace, C Race Aidan Daly

B Notes 08/05/2022

On a sunny Sunday morning 19 B Lakeside Wheelers cyclists assembled in the army barracks near their club HQ. Two groups were formed. This was a welcome return to their home base after the turbulent trials and tribulations of the COVID-19 era. Preliminary chat over we headed for Turin on the new Mullingar to Delvin road with the wind at our backs at a tasty pace. We then turned left and headed for Crookedwood. Before reaching the wood we headed north to Fore through Colllinstown. With the drag out of Fore behind us we rolled onto Castlepollard for a well earned cup of coffee. From there we headed to Coole and onto Multyfarnham, back into Crookedwood up by the hurling pitch and on towards Mullingar via Crazy Corner on lovely undulating country roads. The only sting in the tale here was that we were cycling headfirst into the southerly breeze which certainly ensured we earned  our lunch / brunch / dinner. 80 kms on the clock on hilly course was the final tally.

Notes 01/05/2022

Lakeside Wheelers tackle the Tour of the Heartlands

11 Lakeside Wheelers headed to Athlone to take on the Tour of the Heartlands. This was a 100kms jaunt through the heart of Roscommon and parts of east Galway. With a fairly flat route with only one minor climb the pace was hot for the 25, 28 and 30 kph plus groups. All three groups covered the course well ahead of their average with good banter along the way between cyclists from many the clubs from Westmeath, Offaly, Roscommon and Galway who took part. Many thanks to Shannonside Wheelers for their excellent hosting and marshalling skills as usual.

Lakeside Wheelers Produce Great Results in the Midlands League

Last Thursday evening the Lakeside Wheelers Race Team competed in round 2 of the OE Midlands League. This race was hosted by our friends from Lynx Cycling  club  on a hilly circuit. It was a fantastic night’s racing  with the Lakeside Wheelers Race Team  doing  very well in all categories. A RACE  1ST RUAIRI  WOODS, 3RD MIKEY  FLAHERTY,  4TH STEWART  COX,  7TH TOSH  KIERNAN.  B RACE 1ST JOHN DONAGHUE,  2ND PAUL MURTAGH, 3RD CHARLIE SHERIDAN, 5TH  SEAMUS KILLIAN, 7TH  DAVID LALLY, 9TH IAN LAMBDEN. C RACE. 3RD  JACK NUGENT. Well done to all the lads – keep up the good work


Notes 24/02/2022

Lakeside Wheelers attend Donegal Bay Cycling Club Sportive on 23/04/2022.

Seven Lakeside Wheelers travelled to Donegal to take part in 2022 version of the Donegal Bay Cycling Club Sportive. Six of the lads took on the longer 140 kms route while yours truly tackled the slightly less arduous 100 kms. To the Westmeath men the distances themselves were not the issue but the climbing was spectacular through the glorious hills of west Donegal. The weather was gorgeous. The ride out from Donegal town through Carrick , in the west of the county, via the coast roads with fabulous views over Donegal Bay was achieved at good pace with a following wind. The fun started when we turned north east straight into the strong wind to tackle the long 8 kilometre drag uphill to Glengesh. From there we descended into Adara where we turned south east to head over the highlands back towards Donegal Town. There was a sting in the tail for those of us on the 140 kms route with a loop  around Tullynagnan mountain before the finish in Donegal Town. This was an excellently run sportive and we all offer many thanks to Donegal Bay Cycling Club for this.

A Group Notes

Cycling like most sports can be heavily influenced or affected by weather conditions. Really poor weather conditions two weekends ago meant that only six hardy cyclists turned up for the weekends club spin. Last Sunday conditions were much improved with bright sunny albeit windy conditions prevailing. No surprise therefore to see big numbers of Lakeside Wheelers meet in plenty of time for the 9 o’clock rollout. With Club man Ian Lambden designing this week's route – a nod to the famous Paris - Roubaix Spring classic. Ian’s route might also be described as a bit of a classic as it had many of us going down side roads especially on the Meath portion that we never cycle on before. There was a nice mix of road types thrown in and I recognised cycling on a portion of the Mullingar half marathon route before heading into Killucan, Ballivor and into Kinnegad to have a break at the Plaza. There we met bikers of all types. There were cyclists from Team 905 in Edenderry and a bunch from the Esker club based in Kilbeggan. And a large group of motorcyclists including the impressive looking three wheeled machines were pulling out as we were pulling in. I offered to swap ‘bikes’ with one of these lads but he wasn’t having it! 30 km to go at this point with the wind on our back and we are covering ground nicely into Milltownpass. A few more side roads that we ducked and dived down before eventually popping back out on the N52 just below Belvedere. But the wind dear reader, the wind at this point was directly into our faces and it was the hardest 5K effort of the whole day to get back into Mullingar. 93 Km done with a 31 Kph average.

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Notes 17/04/2022

Lakeside Wheelers Cycling Mallorca Trip 7th – 11th April

After a long day of travelling our cycling group of eleven arrived in Pollenca, Mallorca. We woke up the next morning to blues skies and sun and set off on our first day of cycling. Cyclists of all ages, levels and nationalities populated the roads. Ably lead by our own Roibeard O’Cheallaigh from Stuart Hall Cycling Tours, our group travelled through lush countryside of fields, vineyards, orange and lemon groves and small Spanish villages. Lunch stop was at Binnisalem. Café con leches, agua, Cokes and jambon sandwiches were the order of the day. We arrived back in Pollenca tired and happy for a cool down drink at a local outdoor seaside bar. Day 2 was another 92 km on the bikes, all feeling a little more confident now on the roads with the traffic at junctions and roundabouts. We divided up on day 3, choosing different groups and distances lead by the cycling guides. Some of the group took a short spin on day 4 to Alcudia, a medieval town south of Pollenca. After a well- earned rest and refreshing sea swim each evening, we all had dinner and drinks along with lots of banter, singing, damhsa Gaeilge and jiving. All in all, it was a successful first cycling trip abroad for the members and plans are afoot for the next one!


Lakeside Wheelers Support The Pat Jones Memorial Cycle 16/04/2022

A large group of Lakeside Wheelers travelled to Eddenderry to take part  in the Pat Jones Memorial Cycle hosted by The 905 cycling club for local charities.

Notes 10/04/2022

Three Lakeside Wheelers Attend the Tour of Flanders 02/04/2022

The Tour of Flanders sportive was staged in Belgium last Saturday, April 2nd for the first time in three years following two years of cancellations due to the Covid pandemic. The Tour of Flanders is the biggest of the Spring Classics on the professional cycling calendar and the sportive gives amateur cyclists the chance to test themselves and their bikes on the dreaded cobbled hills which this area of Belgium is famous for.

Three members of Lakeside Wheelers travelled to participate in this gruelling event and to watch the professional race the following day. Jack Nugent, Robbie Kenny and Shay O’Toole had been training for this event since Christmas and clocked up several kilometres cycling the roughest and steepest roads they could find around Westmeath to prepare for the cobbled streets and hills of Flanders. Each of the lads had completed the Tour of Flanders before so they knew what lay ahead and more importantly, they knew how the cobbles would rattle them and their bikes as they rode the 145km course.

The Lakeside Wheelers lads linked up with members of the De Trudys cyling club from Belgium and the Italian based Velo Club Oggiono with whom they have a long standing connection and friendship from the first time they went to Flanders in 2011. On the morning of the event the group of eleven riders gathered at the start in Oudenaarde and by 9am they were on their way. The weather was dry and sunny but, with a biting cold wind it was always going to be a difficult day in the saddle. The route was comprised of twenty two challenging segments, eighteen of which are hills, some cobbled, ranging in length from 500m to 2km and four flat cobblestone streets from 1km to 2.5km in length with a total ascent for the day coming in just short of 2000M.

The hardship commences 10km after the start with the ascent of the Wolvenberg climb which has a maximum gradient of 17%, just what you need to get the heart rate going. From there on the climbs and cobbles came in quick succession so a stop for refreshments at the 80km mark was very welcome as the bulk of the big gradients are loaded into the final 65kms.

 Refuelled with tasty Belgian honey waffles and bananas, the Mullingar trio headed back out to tackle the most feared climb of the day, the Koppenberg. This is a mere 500m in length but with a maximum gradient of 22% and an average of 10% it is a beast of a hill and to make it even more difficult, it is one of the cobbled climbs on the parcours. However, over the top we went and with the Koppenberg now behind us there was a definite increase in confidence as we cycled through the beautiful Belgian farmland but always with an eye on two more feared upcoming hills. First to be conquered is the famous Kwaremont which is a 2km stretch of cobbles with a 12% slope in the middle just to keep you focused. However, there was a treat waiting at the top as we were met by our Italian friends who had decided we needed some hydration. Due to the affection which Belgian cycling fans have for the Kwaremont climb there is a beer named after it so our hydration was probably not be what the professionals would be ingesting on race day. Refreshed and rested we departed the Kwaremont for the final big push of the day which came with just over 15kms to the finish line. The Paterberg climb is another tough cobbled hill and although it is only 400m in length, it averages 12% and tops out at a leg stinging 20% maximum gradient. The end was now definitely within reach and despite a very strong headwind for the final 10kms we rode the last flat stretch with strong legs to cross the end line under the gantry back in Oudenaarde.

 

A club notes 10/04/2022

The necessity to have a rear mudguard on bikes was lifted recently as we move into Spring and with the changing seasons folks tend to start bringing out their fast and fancy bikes again.  We all set off in our separate groupings last Sunday and our group leader, Mossey was intent on ensuring we demonstrate our ‘latent ability’ now that we were on the good bikes. Between the efforts to keep up with his expectations and a wind which seemed to be blowing across us or into our faces all morning, the tea break in Kilbeggan couldn’t come quickly enough. Soon we were rested and back on our way having left a few minutes for the other group who were cycling the same route to get some distance on us as we don’t want to be all bunched together. This isn’t fair on other road users. From Kilbeggan we tipped up the road into Tyrellspass. Taking a right there we went into Croghan where there were lots of calls for potholes and rutted road surfaces. With the bunch working well there are no issues with riders and we made good progress into Rhode. At this stage the wind thankfully was in our backs and we fairly whizzed along into Rochfordbridge and taking a final turn for home. Checking the Garmin when I got back there was a respectful 104 Kms recorded.

C Group Notes 09/04/2022

On Saturday 9th April a few of us, 9 exactly took to the road on what was a lovely cold sunny Morning.  While Ulrika and Pat, our group leaders, were away at other events Micky Hynes rose to the challenge as group leader for the day and looked after us all very well.  We had the pleasure of a few A Cyclists with us today too. We also had a new recruit today from the D group, whom I'm sure will make his way in no time to the B group, well done to him today.  Thanking all the group today for looking out for everyone and making sure we made it back as a group as it was a little tough at times. We did approximately 80K today with a lovely coffee stop at Tuar Ard in Moate and some great laughs too.  

C Group Members Enjoying the Majorca Sunshine

Our numbers were small today due to a number of our members heading off for the sunny hills of Majorca, where they appear to be having a lot of fun without us. Well done to all who made the trip and to the organisers of this. Looking forward to seeing all the tan lines and hearing all the gossip next Saturday. Also today some of the lads headed off to take part in the Cliffs of Moher Cycle, this was 130k with nothing but hills and fabulous scenery, they too had fabulous weather and well done to each of you and what a great achievement.

Upcoming Events

•                 Tour Of the Lakes is on 12/06/2022 with distances to suit all cyclist available.

•                 Mullingar Grand Prix is on 17/07/2022 and will be based out of Multyfarnham Community Centre.

•                 Midland Interclub League will be hosted on 05/05/2022 and 30/06/2022. The MIL is once again being supported by Steven Franzoni from Outdoor Escape. We welcome club members who are not participating in these events to act as marshals.

•                 Lakeside Wheelers will be one of the clubs along with Esker cc to host the finish of stage 4 from Lisdoonvarna into Kilbeggan on June 18th.

•                 Wednesday evening spins will recommence for the 13th of April meeting at O’Briens Centra rolling out at 6:30. Please have lights on your bike.


Notes 03/04/2022

C Group Final Training Run for Majorca Adventure 02/04/2022

A hardy bunch of 10 C riders headed west, under grey skies, to Ballynacarrigy on their final training run before they head to Majorca on a cycling tour this week. From Ballynacarrigy they headed on into Longford and via Tashinny rolled into Ballymahon for the tea stop, soon thereafter. From there it was straight back to Mullingar via Moyvore and the infamous (for cyclists) Skeagh hill as the weather closed in. A sudden rain shower produced a spurt from the peloton which soon arrived back in Mullingar. With 70 kms on the clock and plenty of climbing this spin has the group in fine fettle for their upcoming Majorca adventure.

A & B Group head for the hills to celebrate the tour of Flanders 03/04/2022

Sometimes a particular weekend club spin lives long in the memory above others. Such was the case for Sunday’s spin for the A and B group members of Lakeside Wheelers cycling club. For context it was way back in 2011 when a group of Wheelers decided to visit the Flemish part of Belgium which hosts one of the big professional spring classic one day races. The Tour of Flanders. The trip was a success and, to celebrate the Flemish race the club has since run its own version of that race on the same day at the pro one and this is run around the roads and hills of North Westmeath. It has hence become known as the Tour of Flakeanders. Lots of short sharp hills or drags over a long distance make for a tough day in the saddle. The A route was put together by Mark Monaghan who was on the original 2011 trip to Belgium. With over 1000 m of climbing and nearly 130 KM long, Sunday’s spin had the makings of being a bit of a classic. The B Group route designed by Eugene Duffy comprised 80 Kms and 600 metres of climbing.  When we gathered at O’Briens Centra at 8:30, we were bathed in a thick fog with temperatures hovering around zero. Thankfully the fog cleared as soon as we left Mullingar The A and B  groups worked well together and the mood was good as the bright spring sunshine lifted everybody’s spirits. We rolled into Fore village for our coffee break and were very well looked after at Ned’s Forge. One by one both A groups and a large B group headed by Eugene made its way from Fore. I can highly recommend dropping by Ned’s if you’re in the area as they have indoor and outdoor seating to suit conditions on the day. We didn’t manage to get back to Mullingar as a single group as, due to the length and ‘toughness’ of the day some of us were dropped and had to pedal the last 20 or 30 Km on our own or in small groups. Thanks to PJ Carey for helping to get this particular cyclist home otherwise I might still be out there! A fabulous day to be out on the bike and these are the kind of days which make the training worthwhile.

 

Midland League

The MIL or Midland League committee met recently and have decided on the calendar and format for this year's races. In 2022 we are going to have the opportunity to race 15 times over the Spring, Summer and early Autumn. For the first time there will be a Women's only league which will be run as part of the C group so this will hopefully encourage more female participation in the MIL. Race evenings are on Thursdays and are a great way to test or improve your fitness and maybe even score few points towards coming top of your race category. If you are interested to know more about the MIL don’t hesitate to ask as lots of club members race this event every year and remember you don’t have to be in A group rider to join in. Otherwise you can email secretary@lakesidewheelers.ie for an update.

 

Membership

If you have not renewed your club and Cycling Ireland membership at this point please please please do it as soon as possible as this protects you and the club once out on the road. Thank you.





2021 Club Awards Presentation

On Monday 27/12/2021 our club chairman Mr Paul Gibney presented the club awards at an open air ceremony in O’Brien’s car park due to the unprecedented circumstances of the latest wave of Omnicron Covid. Normally these presentations would happen in early December at the annual Christmas bash. Here are some of recipients with their well deserved awards


Ms Emer Flynn, recipient of the best newcomer award. Emer joined the Lakeside Wheelers D group this year and has rapidly progressed to the C Group with whom she has become a regular on Saturday mornings. Well done Emer.

Mr Seamus Killian recipient of the most improved rider of the year award. Seamus has been a stalwart of the A Group over many years. He has put in many kilometres training this year and has featured well in the Midlands League Races. Well done Seamus 

Mr Rona Bracken a member of a four man team which won the 2020 National M50 Road Championship.  The other members of the team were Mr Tosh Kiernan, Mr Paul Murtagh and Mr Aidan Daly. Well done Tosh, Ronan, Paul & Aidan. 

Mr Donal Kelleher recipient of a recognition award for his tireless dedication to capturing and reporting on all things cycling both locally and nationally. Donie reports regularly on the exploits of his beloved Rochfortbridge cycling group on Facebook. He has captured thousands of excellent cycling action shots on his trusty camera at both local and national events and races over the years. He is a major contributor of beautiful images to Lakeside Wheelers Facebook page. His love of cycling is integral to supporting and promoting the sport here in Westmeath and further afield. Well done Donie well deserved.

Mr Paul Gibney club chairman on the right introduced the new club President Mr Shay O’Toole at the improvised awards ceremony. Lakeside Wheelers are in safe hands with these two gentlemen at the helm. Other awards were announced on the day. Mr Tosh Kiernan was announced as club person of the year. Tosh had an excellent year racing and was also recognised for his role as chief organiser of the Midlands League. Well done Tosh. Mr Gerry Wallace was also given a recognition award for services to the club. Gerry has worked tirelessly in recent years in encouraging new people into the club. He has been a leader of the D Group for the last number of years also. Well done Gerry. 

Notes 19/03/2023


Wheelers Racers Start Their Season


The fast men of Lakeside Wheelers cycling club got their season underway around the roads of Wilkinstown, Co. Meath on March fifth, competing for honours in one of the early road races hosted by Navan Road Club. There were two from Lakeside competing; Stuart Cox raced in the very competitive A2 race and finished strongly in the bunch while in the A4 race, a novice to open road racing, Neil McDermott finished a very commendable 7th place and picked his first points by placing so well. 

The following weekend the action turned to the Newbridge GP where once again two Wheelers took part. It was the new man to racing that once again impressed by coming home in ninth place in the A4 race. Also racing in Newbridge was Tosh Kiernan who raced in his first race of the season. This proved to be a flier from the start with riders being dropped within the first few kilometers. Tosh hung in with the main bunch finishing just behind the eventual winner on a hilly and windy seventy kilometer circuit. 

Last weekend the action was in Drogheda for the Boyne GP. The number of Lakeside Wheelers taking part in the A4 race rose to three with Neil McDermott improving on his two previous showings by coming home in fourth place this time. Only two positions behind him was Paul Murtagh in sixth. David Lally finished a little further in the pack as he gets his racing legs back for the season ahead. The lads raced on a hilly route with over seven hundred metres of climbing for sixty three kilometers raced.

Stuart Cox competed in the fast A1/A2 race and placed well up in the main bunch and there was another good showing from Tosh Kiernan securing a top twenty finish in the A3 race. 

Well done to everyone who has raced so far. It's an impressive showing from the club and proves the racing scene is once again going strongly.