Despite an exceptionally cold start to the day North Down sent a large turnout of riders to contest Round 5 of the ‘cross series in Ormeau Park. Always a popular event due to it’s scenic surroundings and close proximity to the City Centre.
Unfortunately the cold weather did nothing to improve the conditions of the course however and thick mud was the order of the day. Bound up wheels, broken rear mechs and slippy tree roots made for a challenging course which, combined with a few interesting sections of singletrack, made for a course that would test man and machine alike.
Although, strangely, there were no riders contesting the “A” race the “B” race was dominated by North Down riders. Taking 5 of the top 6 positions you could say that North Down “owned” the “B” event. Heading up the athletes was unsurprisingly our ‘cross master Colm McLarnon with Steven Watty coming close behind with another excellent result in his debut season. How long before these two top riders are fighting it out in the “A” race?
Alison McMullan
Another McLarnon, this time Molly, yet again showed her class by winning the ladies Under 14. This means that Molly leads her class with two rounds to go. Will Hamilton and Ben Webb battled it out in the boys equivalent with the lead changing constantly between the pair over the course of the race. This time it was Will who came out with the upper hand, though surely with a bit of extra training with his Father, Ben will soon be taking his share of glory. Euan Ferguson was out for second time this year putting in a strong ride in the Under 8’s category. The future is certainly bright for North Down with such a strong race from our junior ranks. With this sort of class we should be dominating the races for many years to come.
Future Stars – North Down Juniors
Sustrans Seaside Bikeride
Sustrans’ volunteers have invited all cyclists to join them on a cycle ride from Bangor and Holywood along the scenic coastal path to the Titanic Quarter, Belfast. There will be hot punch and mince pies at the Dock Café, a welcoming destination for cyclists.
Starting from the McKee Clock in Bangor at 9.30 am on Saturday 1st December the ride will travel along the scenic coastal path to Holywood joining cyclists at 11.30 at the Dirty Duck, and cycling on to the Dock café for hot punch and mince pies at Titanic Quarter Belfast. 18 miles, leisurely pace with natural terrain in parts!
Sustrans are a leading UK charity enabling people to travel by foot, bike or public transport for more of the journeys made day to day. You can find out more about Sustrans at www.sustrans.org.uk
Mudguard (Noun):
A piece of curved metal or plastic over the wheel of a bicycle that stops water and dirt from hitting the rider or the rider behind. (Subtle hint to 90% of riders on club runs these days)