(By Shay O'Toole - Sun 9th April 2017) April Fool's morning saw a decent representation of the Wheelers gathering in Ennistymon for the 2017 edition of the Stephen Roche Atlantic Challenge. A very strong NW wind off the sea and vicious showers racing in from the Aran Islands didn't augur well for the spin. A crowd in excess of 2500 cyclists snaked their way out past town and were strung out over the full length of the 4 kms to Lahinch.  As soon as we reached the higher levels of the Burren it was a very brisk spin through Lisdoonvarna, too fast for any thoughts of "match making", and down to the finish in Ennistymon. All in all, a very enjoyable early season sportive with beautiful countryside and weather, enjoyed by all. The great man himself, Stephen Roche, even towed one Wheeler up the first climb! His old nemesis, Sean Kelly, also graced five Wheelers eating tea and cake after the spin. A great spin made better by having me time with two cycling legends. |
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