Tour Of The Lakes Rounds Off Spectacular Bike Week

Post date: Jun 18, 2018 8:50:8 AM

(By Shay O'Toole - Sun. 17th September 2018)

Sunday morning brought a breezy, misty day which was not exactly what event organisers had hoped for but, it still did not deter the huge crowd of cyclists who travelled to Mullingar for the club’s annual sportive.

With sign-on complete and all the groups lined up it was a great sight to see so many cyclists depart the clubhouse for the 120km, 80km and 50km route options. The bulk of the riders headed north through Crookedwood, Collinstown, Fore, Castlepollard, Coole and Multy before returning back to the Barracks for refreshments. Refuelled, the 120km entrants then left for a fast 50km spin to Ballynacarrigy, Skeagh, Milltown and Ballymore where they turned left to come back to base via Uisneach, Loughnavalley and Ballinea.

Dan O'Toole, Pairic Devine and Mark Horohoe get set for Tour of the Lakes 2018.

This annual event always caters for riders of all abilities and standards and this year was no exception. A smaller group of beginners and novice riders took to the Canal Blueway, the roads and the Old Rail Trail for a more leisurely 50km spin which was enjoyed by visitors and members alike.

With the cycling over, all riders enjoyed a nice hot meal and refreshments in the Youth Cafe.

Once again, thanks to everyone who helped make this day a great success including all the cyclists from clubs around Ireland who travelled to participate, the members of Lakeside Wheelers, Dunne and Nugent and Outdoor Escape. A special word of thanks is due to Karyn Morgan and her team at Youth Cafe for the excellent hospitality and friendliness which they afforded everybody on the day.

Ciaran O'Brien, Claire Malone, Colin Yates, Billy Cunnane, Mary Taffe, Brendan Kiernan, Philip O'Hara and Andy Vambeck, all Lakeside Wheelers, at the 2018 Tour of the Lakes.

The Beginners Group enjoying a spin on the Canal during the 2018 Tour of the Lakes.