A Group spin Sunday 16th May

Post date: May 16, 2021 6:19:19 PM

Sunday 16th May 2021

The eagerly anticipated return to group spins for the A & B groups arrived last Sunday. There were really impressive numbers out for the resumption of club spins since lockdown just prior to Christmas. That’s a long time out of action for some folks but judging by the lean look of some of Lakeside Wheelers finest many had been using lockdown wisely and had obviously been putting in very decent training.

The restrictions of no more than 15 people per cycling group meant that there were 3 A groups and 2 B groups going out the road. The slightly smaller group sizes certainly make for safer cyclist/driver interactions on the road but also mean that the rest periods when in the draft of the person in front is cut down. We took a route that took us out to Croghan Hill and into Dangain and onto Tullamore where we stopped for coffee. Normally the filling station stop would have a few groups of Lakeside Wheelers outside adding a splash of colour to the area but in these times we seek out separate coffee stops so don’t get to catch up with the other groups as much as we would like. At this point 57 Km was on the Garmin and I’ll chance it to say all we’re feeling good on the return. From Kilbeggan we took a side road over to Dalystown and that’s when the heavens opened and a classic Irish summer thundershower drenched us to the core. All chat ceased and everyone just turned the pedals to get home… a headwind only added to the challenge.

Home with over 90 km completed at a decent speed and in good company meant it was a good day in the saddle. It is indeed great to be back!

The enforced break from club cycling means that many of us have very varied levels of fitness. Just because somebody cycled with a certain group last year does not mean they automatically pick with that same group again in 2021. Please use the first few spins back to assess your own fitness level and join the appropriate group that best matches your current abilities come the weekend. Groups work best if all cyclists are of similar fitness. The club now has many groups going out over the weekend and if necessary drop down to a lower level for a few weeks, build back up your fitness and strength and then when the time is right, rejoin your old group. The rider must suit the group not the other way around.

Reminder:- The Wednesday evening spins from O’Briens we recommence this week. Arrive in plenty of time for a 6:30 pm departure. Lights are a must. These are not official club spins and as such there are no group leaders. Routes and groups are formed on the evening depending on who is present.