(By Shay O'Toole)

The club’s big day on the Leisure front was staged on Sunday, June 16 th with the annual Tour

of the Lakes sportive proving to be a major success once again. Over 150 riders from all over

Leinster turned up at the clubhouse for the 10am start and all the hard work by the

organisation committee was rewarded with a beautiful sunny morning.

As usual the various groups were arranged according to the proposed speeds and all were

group led by designated Lakeside Wheelers members. Following a short safety speech from

race organiser Joe Duffy, the groups departed on the first leg of the event which was an 80km

spin around Loughs Lene and Derravaragh via Crookedwood, Castlepollard, Collinstown,

Fore, Castlepollard, Coole and Multyfarnham. Having completed this very scenic but hilly

spin the riders returned to base for some refreshments before heading back out on the second

leg. This took them on a 50km route to Ballynacarrigy, Skeagh Hill, Ballymore and home via

Loughnavalley. With 130km done and some tired legs there was no shortage of takers for the

hot curry meal which awaited all participants on completion of their day. In keeping with the

Lakeside Wheelers tradition of accommodating all abilities, there were routes for those who

wanted to do just 80km and a more leisurely 30km spin which incorporated a spin along the

Royal Canal Blueway.

As mentioned above, these events require a lot of organisation to ensure a safe and enjoyable

day for all riders. Thanks to Ulrika Maher, Joe Duffy, and Paul Gibney for their hard work.

They were ably assisted by the sign-on crew, group leaders and back-up drivers. Thanks also

to the catering team at the Youth Cafe and special mention to the moto marshals who

provided much appreciated direction and safety along the entire route.