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UPCOMING DEPARTURE POINTS & EVENTS
(Clubs spins depart at 9.30am & Inter Club Races start at 7pm, unless otherwise stated)

ST. TIERNAN'S CC - CLUB DAY OCTOBER 2nd 2010

Lads,

The club big wigs were in session in a major Dublin conference venue at your expense for the weekend and have come up with the idea of Club Day. Saturday October 2nd has been deemed a suitable day to get everyone together for a spin and some lunch at 1230 in O'Loughlin's Bar in Stepaside.

We would like to have anyone who has shown up for a run this year or anyone who has been following the club's progress from their sick bed or via the electronic media to show up for a quick 3 hour spin from Park Vale at 0930, a slower three hour spin leaving at the same time from Park Vale, or just come and meet everyone for lunch, a pint or a coffee and and a bit of chat .

Please try and make a big effort to get there for this one saturday as it would be great to have a big peloton of riders on the road decked out in the club colours cutting a dash through the Wicklow countryside. Routes to be announced closer to the day for the two groups. The green jersey contest seems to be going down to the wire and will most likely be decided on the final drag up to the 50kph mark on the way in to Stepaside so yet another reason to be there in person.

On the Saturday night we would hope that members would meet for drinks in the South William on South William Street at 2100. It's nice and hip and would allow us to get together outside of lycra clad environment and have a social evening. We discussed bringing dates but it was felt some of the wives would feel uncomfortable meeting “the other woman” as they often call them. We get to chat to each other infrequently for much longer than 2 minute rotations, so it might be nice to have a little longer together to mull over the important issues of the day.

It would be great if members could aim to make one or both events. It has been a very enjoyable year so far and it would be a good way to mark it and get us thinking about what we need to do to keep the club progressing for the winter campaign and next year.

The Committee

UPCOMING DEPARTURE POINTS & EVENTS
(Clubs spins depart at 9.30am & Inter Club Races start at 7pm, unless otherwise stated)

CLUB CHAMPIONSHIPS - 7th August 2010

By Andy Lakes

On a day which saw the Inter Club League switch the Championship race to a Saturday, we were treated to an exciting event. With a great turnout from our club which included marshals and competitors, the race set off in two groups. The tough event saw the riders tackle two laps of the Poulaphuca loop before taking on the hilly route around the Blessington Lakes, which included the climbs into Ballyknocken and Lacken. The front group, which featured a sizeable number of our riders, worked well and kept working to keep ahead of the main field. Past Ballyknocken, a small breakaway group containing a visibly strong Alan Cody, made contact with the leaders. This combinded group briefly stayed together until Alan and three others powered away on the steep gradient into Lacken. The break contained a representative from St. Tiernan's, Usher, UCD and Lucan and worked well to establish a good lead coming to the finish. Alan dug deep to jump away coming to the final drag. Slowly, inch by inch, Paul Dolan (Usher) led the chase which hauled him back and set up a tense finish. Dolan triumphed on the line with Alan just behind him, followed by the UCD and Lucan champions. In the battle for the remaining medals, Tulga powered home to take Silver while Mark Hughes nipped past a fast finishing Brian Kilbride to snatch Bronze.

It was a very well organised event. Special thanks to Brian Hayden for setting us up on our marshalling corners and providing lead car and results. Well done to all who participated and to those who provided marshal services. Here's to next year's event.

Gold - Alan Cody

Silver - Tulga Oyunchimeg

Bronze - Mark Hughes

CLUB LEAGUE - SALLY GAP RACE - 5th August 2010

By Brian Hayden

UPCOMING DEPARTURE POINTS & EVENTS
(Clubs spins meet at 9.20 and depart at 9.30am SHARP & Inter Club Races start at 7pm, unless otherwise stated)

* * * * * * * * * * TOUR DE BURREN UPDATE  * * * * * * * * * * * *

Apologies to Barry Doyle, who sent this fine article in to the website weeks ago. Laziness and incompetence on the webmaster's behalf have delayed it's publication. It's here now so pull up a comfortable chair, pour yourself a cup of tea and enjoy. . . . . . . . . . .

Tour De Burren by Barry Doyle

They never told me there would be days like this.

All those cold winter nights sitting on a trainer in a shed out the back. Every breath forming crystals in the winter cold. Radio tuned in to East coast FM which is the only damned programme I can get. Many Saturday mornings watching the colours of Tiernans riders dance their way up mountain climbs as I swore at my legs to work faster.

On a day of beautiful weather, fantastic scenery and five tiernans riders in the peak of fitness those bitterly cold winter sessions suddenly proved worthwhile. This was a fabulous day that will live in the memory.

In the company of 150, or so, riders we set off from sunny Ballyvaughan on the North coast of Clare at 9.30 am. The first 8 kms were lead by a pace car as we coasted to Kinvara, pointing out some of the amazing views of Galway bay to Tulga, listening with disbelief to Brendan Bonnie’s insane nutritional regime and admiring the ever strong Sean Kelly glide back and forward along the edge of the peleton with all the grace of a current pro rider. Brian is without his trusted steed at the moment yet still looks born on the bike on his current mount. We were all enjoying the opening stages of this event.

After Kinvara things turned a little tastier. The pace car disappeared into the distance as the first of three climbs for the day hit us. The climb of Carran hill was signed at the beginning noting 4 km and 10% gradient. The 10% was in the opening stages and eased out over the remainder of the climb. The lead group splintered at this point with Tulga showing fine form cresting the first KOM with the lead group followed closely by Brian. Brendan and Barry followed through closely and put the heads down over a rolling section that took us to the South of the stunning Burren. Turning right just beyond Limnagh castle into a tough headwind a large group of 20 riders worked hard to regain contact. Brian, in the company of his very strong brother-in-law, Seamus had slowed their pace to allow a coming together of 4 Tiernans riders.

Working hard we crested the wonderful Burren landscape past the alleuwee caves looking over the sun filled views of Galway bay framed with the Nine pins on the horizon. This was hard but enjoyable work. Descending in to Ballyvaughan we met the 60km group just setting off. This was the only minus mark on the incredible organisation of the day. Making your way around the leisure cyclists, young and old, was tricky and slightly dangerous despite the road closures. Our group arrived at the foot of corkscrew hill together and wound our way around the four hairpins with visions of Alpe d’huez, Tourmalet and the Madelaine. This was purely a vision in my head as I struggled again on this climb and in that famous phrase from Brian Kilbride, I accelerated quickly….. out the back of our group. Not to matter, having put the hammer down at the top I came across my brother whom I had tactically placed at the top of corkscrew hill (in a tiernans jersey) to aid in my chase of the lead pack. Five full on kilometers and we made contact with Brian and Brendan for a powerful pull into Lisdonvara. Brendan Bonnie showing the full advantage of a sports nutritionists diet as he left rubber on the road accelerating to our food stop.

After a well organised food stop with Brian digging into the cheesecake, tulga enjoying a fistful of sandwiches and Brendan eating a Berry we left for the next stage. Our group of ten left 2 mins after a larger group of 30 riders that included motorbike outriders. A quick discussion to agree terms from the different teams in our echelon saw us chase down this pack, making contact in Kilfenora. What a good decision this was as the next 40 km’s were completed at great pace with each road crossing closed, Garda stopping traffic and all sharing the workload. We felt like tour riders with the sun in our backs and sound of cheering crowds at each village, well one or two kids shouting insults. It felt great though.

The sharp left hand turn at the South end of Ennistymmon saw us on the long drag to Lahinch. 200 yards from our first designated sprint of the day the 50k sign into Lahinch, Brian muttered something to me about feeling a bit tight. With all the sympathy of Cavendish in the home straight (and none of the attitude) I wound my way up through the group to take full points with Brian, Brendan and Tulga following through.

I was infused with confidence, having won the sprint to Newcastle the previous week, dreaming of my palmares stretching to more than a scribble on the back of a postage stamp, as we sped through Lahinch and on to the foot of the cliffs of Moher. My dreams lasted all of 300 seconds as Tulga crested the hill in great time followed swiftly by Brian. Brendan and I took third and fourth in the final KOM points of the day.

Doolin was the next stop with time for some great Banter and a photo with Sean Kelly no less. Stocked up and ready for the final 28 km’s the six of us left Doolin taking in the stunning views along the north coast of Clare. To say it was breathtaking would be an understatement. This really was worth all of the training, special diets and visits to Italian sports science labs.

Slowly the pace wound up as we passed rider after rider. There was a suspicion of some sandbagging with one or two riders being witnessed downing power gels as we raced towards our designated final points sprint. The 50k sign prior to Ballyvaughan. We all knew Brian had been down these roads before and waited for the inevitable attack. Tactical naivety saw me attack having sighted a sign for Ballyvaughan. Unfortunatley this sign was for a farmers market about 3 k from our sprint. Sniggers could be heard from behind as the tactically savvy Brian, Brendan, Tulga and Seamus sat on my wheel after my basic error. Brian timed his moment to perfection, attacking with pace half a kilometer from the finish. Much as I tried I could only get to within a bike length of his rear wheel before Brendan and Tulga shot like bullets from behind. Honours to Brian at this final sprint followed by Brendan and Tulga. Double points for the sprint at the finish of a race so Brian gets to add to those Palmares. The rest of us live to go another day.

We rolled into Ballyvaughan to be greeted by smiling ladies dishing out t-shirts, ice creams and massages. The planning and execution of this event was exceptional and credit to all who were involved. We all enjoyed a fine pint of Guiness after our efforts as we discussed the pro and cons of Brendans diet versus the advantages of a few blood transfusions to help improve performance. We had clocked 152 kms at an average of 29.8 kph and felt we had well deserved our post race refreshment.

I’ll be back on the trainer this winter but at least I can look forward to this event next year. An absolute must given our experience this year.

Donal Crowley Memorial A2/A3 race in Blarney, Co. Cork. 88kms-Sunday
Congratulations to Andre Engemann, who kept the flag flying in Kerry at the weekend in the hotly contested A2/A3 Donal Crowley Memorial.

1 B. McLoughlin (Blarney CC);
2 M. O'Loughlin (Dan Morrissey/Carrick Wheelers CC);
3 J. Horgan (US/Cosney);
4 K. McCarthy The Edge CC);
5 A. Engemann (St. Tiernan's CC);
6 O. O'Connor (Dundrum Town Centre/Orwell Wheelers CC);

TOUR DE BURREN 2010

By Brian Kilbride

An up and coming young rider poses with the lads in Doolin.....

A great event again this year. A magnificent route, great organisation, great food stops and great weather made for an idyllic day in Clare. Four of us were down, myself, Barry, Brendan, and Tulga completed and once again we were unable to shake off Seamus from the Limerick CC.  

The lads had gone down the night before to stay with Barry's relatives in Kilfenora. A 0930 start made it an easy enough trip down the new road from Dublin for myself and you could sign on up to 9 am.

Already the temperature was getting up to close to 20 and short sleeves and sunscreen were all that was required.

The event is 151 ks and nearly 1700m of elevation. The route heads up along Galway Bay at a controlled gentle pace by the lead car, A king of the hills competition at 6Km and 3 drags in the first 45 minutes soon separated the big bunch. The route weaved among fields of stone right into the heart of the Burren before descending back down towards Ballyvaughan then turning for Corkscrew Hill and on to Lisdoonvarna and the feedstop at 70Km. Everyone had really pushed it for the opening 2 hours and were glad of the superb tea, sandwiches and cheese cake.

For the lumpy middle section round the backroads to Corofin and then on to Ennistymon and Lahinch, we chased to catch a big group that was motoring along at about 35kph. The bunch was being controlled by the host Burren C.C.  and although it started out with about 50 riders, this soon thinned out as the pace remained pretty unrelenting.

The lads call for Seamus to come through and do a bit of work.

The first sprint points were available into Lahinch and Barry had been out noting the position of every 50Km speed post in County Clare the previous day and easily took the points. The spin along past the golf course in Lahinch and on along the coast to Liscannor began a really scenic last 50ks. The climb to the top of the Cliffs of Moher was spent in quiet contemplation. We regrouped at the top and after a prolonged period examining his front tire, Brendan weighed up the benefits of avoiding the bonk versus the gastric discomfort that would accompany his finishing his power bar. In the end he decided to chance the downhill run to the feed step in Doolin assisted only by gravity.

Bren inspects his tyre, while Tulga smiles for the press.

There we bumped into Sean Kelly who graciously posed for a photo. More sandwiches and tea and we were all gearing up for the scenic 30k home around Black head.  Nobody was looking to spend too long at the front and there was some very cagey riding with everyone wondering where exactly the final 50K sign was. Barry got nervous and was first to break but was held up by a tourist coach. He unfortunately had shown his hand too early and I was able to nip off up the road with 500m to go and level the points competition on the day.

A nice reward after a tough day in the saddle.

151 Km on the day at 29.8kph was a pretty good days work. Ice cream was provided at the finish to anyone who wanted and a massage from a selection of burly male masseurs was on offer, however a creamy pint by the quay side was was the only happy ending the five of us needed.

UPCOMING DEPARTURE POINTS & EVENTS
(Clubs spins depart at 9.30am & Inter Club Races start at 7pm, unless otherwise stated)

WICKLOW 200 REPORT

Find out what wise words Kevin shared with the lads in Brian Kilbride's report here.

SPECIAL THANKS FOR FEBRUARY WEXFORD TRAINING WEEKEND

Brian presents Bart with a club jersey as a thank you for all his support and generosity.

WICKLOW 200

Well done to everyone who took part. We'll have some articles and photos up soon.

CLUB SPIN REPORT 5th JUNE

By Andy Lakes

With many riders away for the Bank Holiday weekend, it was a select group who set off from Park Vale in fine weather. With upcoming endurance events on the horizon, we set off on a rather hilly route. Adrian and a visibly more slender Brendan Bonnie were aiming for a hard day in the mountains, while poor Dave Comiskey had to (yet again) look after my pathetically feeble body as it struggled up the slightest incline. Adrian selected a route which seemed to climb up every possible approach to Sally and Wicklow Gaps.

After Powerscourt and Glencree, Dave nursed me home back down towards Enniskerry, while Bren and Adrian glided gracefully up the first (of many) ascents of Sally Gap. They completed a very challenging 120km before finally returning home. Rumour has it, that Bren was also spotted later that afternoon in Howth. Combining Adrian's challenging routes and Bren's insane enthusiasm, it was a very enjoyable spin. 

UPCOMING DEPARTURE POINTS & EVENTS
(Clubs spins depart at 9.30am & Inter Club Races start at 7pm, unless otherwise stated)

CLUB SPIN REPORT 22nd MAY

By Brian Kilbride

I'll get to the sheep later but this weekends spin had it all. I will say though, I was the first to disturb them, but I am not responsible for what went on later.
 
A great turnout out , on the finest day of the year so far,10 riders and all festooned in new club gear apart from Brendan Bonnie who insisted on wearing the maglia nera. We were 2 riders down by the first roundabout in an incident de course. Neil has a story and scars to show the grandkids while Greg has been left with nothing more permanent than deeply imbedded gravel. I think all the new kit survived. Headed off again up the Old Conna Rd and on to Bray Head and the back of the golf course to Delgany.
 
Ray felt he took the first prime on Bray Head, but Eamon was able to inform him later that he had missed the finish line and although he seemed to be the strongest had actually lost out to Eamon himself. Them's the breaks.
 
We did the nasty little tree lined hill at Drumbawn up to the Callary bog, having rather cruelly sent Brendan O'Brien up it's even nastier parallel climb up to Carrigower. He was looking for the shortest route to Glencree.  It's good training though Bren. Ray was happy to pick off a prime while Paul Kissane pushed him close though promises not to sprint to that first corner again.
 
The sun was splitting the stones by the time we were ascending Luggala. It was as bad as we all remembered it, but did give us an extra long time to spend admiring Lough Dan. Barry's new steed was put to the test. Leaving a triple chainring behind is never easy on days like these but if your intention is kissing podium girls, then you've got to progress to a manly 52/39.
 
Sally Gap found Eamon getting the KOM points again on another technicality. Mark showed he's obviously has not been doing as much child minding as a father of a new born should with an effortless cresting of the hill. We travelled on to the cafe in Glencree for refreshments out on the patio in blazing sunshine. There was a good number of riders who were able to wip out their casquettes. I had always anticipated this beautiful sight, I was just sorry there were less people there to appreciate such a public display of appropriate cycling summer attire.
 
Barry's bike was again the subject of some controversy as we exited in higher spirits than we went in. There was a suggestion that some had been using crack pipes to get through this gruelling stage but CO2 canisters are going to become the norm for puncture inflation on club rides, (your club dues are not just to be used for committee entertainment) and we would not waste our money on non performance enhancing drugs.
 
I thought I would never have to use sheep and feather beds in the same sentence but I just have. I was only detained a little while by a loose herd but everyone else can explain for themselves what caused the split in the group as we made our way back down hill well and truly spent.
 
Great day out and now with the summers getting warmer days like this will probably become the norm. Long may it continue.
 
BK

Dave Comiskey supplied this MapMyRide link to the route here.

HILL CLIMB PICS

Eamon and Paul before the start.

Alan powers his way to victory.

"Now Tulga, I want you to clap like this when I cross the finish line".

Stef manages to ride into a scene fit for a postcard.

Tulga and Brian on the steep main road section either grimacing or smiling.

NOEL & KIERAN HAMMOND MEMORIAL RACES 16th MAY

Alan Cody showed yet again his great ability when he took 5th in the A3 race in Roundwood. Over a tough course and against a very strong field, Alan rode very well an event which saw many withdrawals as the course took its toll on the field. Well done to everyone who took part.

INTER-CLUB LEAGUE - HILLCLIMB TIME TRIAL 14.05.10

Congratulations to Alan Cody for his vistory in the Inter-Club Hill Climb TT last night. Alan finished best out of 73 riders on a night which saw a good turnout from St. Tiernan's riders. Paul Kissane made his club debut and also rode very well. Congratulations to all who participated.

Hill Climb TT Results

1 Alan Cody St. Tiernans 14:31
2 Paul Dolan Usher 14:36
3 Odhran Connors Orwell 14:56
4 Brian Ahern Orwell 15:03
5 Stephen Byrne Usher 15:07
6 Dylan Rafter Orwell 15:15
7 Pat Conlon Orwell 15:16
8 Ivan McAvinchey Orwell 15:17
9 Shane Baker Usher 15:18
10 Enda Donnolly Lucan 15:20

CLUB SPIN REPORT 1st MAY

By Kevin McNamee

The usual suspects turned out on Saturday morning, Ray, Barry, Bren, Paul and myself (wasn't bad given it was the bank holiday weekend). Decided some climbing would be good for us, well at least that what we thought at the time. The route was Lamb Doyle's, The Blue Light and back into Stepaside and out to Enniskerry turning right up by Kellitt Stables. At Johnny Foxes we took a left turn for the back road up to Glencree. Ray led the charge all the way up to Glencree as we all blew out the back one by one! Then came Sally Gap, Lugalla, the hailstones with torrential very cold rain. It was truly arctic like conditions for a while.  Bren, of course, had his winter gloves which he shared with us all! We dug deep into the reserves to get back to Dundrum with some wishing they lived in warmer places.

INTER CLUB LEAGUE IMPORTANT NOTICE - 28.04.10

I would like to advise all Inter club league riders of the change to the sign on location for the “Batterstown” race circuit.  Due to the disgraceful behaviour of some riders we are no longer welcome to use the old garage on the far side of Batterstown.  It will now be held at the intersection of the old sign on road and the Batterstown Road.  The finish will be located at our current finish line or somewhere very close to it.

A complaint has been made to the organisers of the 10mile TT about riders urinating on the private property of the business owner of the garage.  The owner identified 2 particular clubs but there could have been other riders involved.  What is most amazing about this is that the Vets and other clubs use this same area for sign on for their races and they have never had a problem with the proprietor of the business.

Last year a similar complaint was made and after an apology and discussions between myself and the then owners we were allowed to use the front court of their business for sign on, car parking and finishing of the race, they even gave us the use of their external toilet.  12 months on, technically it is only about 8 races later, and we are now being asked to move on.  As is normal in instances like this the riders that carry on with this conduct are not the ones to go back and apologise to those that they have offended.  All of the club reps give their time to organise the race on their specific night.  Without the help of these people this league would not go ahead, they give up their riding/personal time for the league and the last thing they need is to be the brunt of complaints from the general public.

There is no current penalty for this type of behaviour.  This will be reviewed at the next meeting.  On a personal note I do not wish to be at the receiving end of complaint for people I may not even know.

At the new sign on spot there are a number of private houses, please act like adults and when you need to answer the call of nature please do so where no one can see you, this may require you to take a spin down the road so you are out of sight of the locals.  Also please be respectful of the grass verges when parking they maybe public property but locals do tend to these areas and don’t wish to see their hard work trampled by parked cars.

I am sure that I don’t have to remind all riders that they represent themselves, their clubs and in some cases their sponsors and overall, the sport of cycling.

Thank you for taking the time to read this.

Brian Hayden

Chairman St Tiernan’s Cycling Club

Interclub League Committee Member

CLUB SPIN REPORT 24th APRIL

By Brian Kilbride

Great spin this past saturday. Five of us out to pre-enact L-B-L. ( and what a heart warming comback story it was) Eamon, Barry , myself and new riders Sean and Neil. Weather was partly sunny, southerly wind and about 14 degrees. We headed out to Delgany before cutting back via the Willow Grove pub  and in the back way to NTMK. We nipped over three short sharp hills in succession  to leave us at the foot of the Devil's Glen before a leisurely trip up to Garyduff X  then down the a sinuous descent to Glenealy. Cokes and discussions on saddle angles and male fertility were the order of the day. The last hill of any substance was the one behind the church at Glenealy and up to the top of the old Rathnew Hill. We finally felt the wind at our backs and the average speed  picked up Greatly. The sprint into NTMK was contested by myself and Eamon, the two newbies deciding to sit back and watch the old masters at work. Eamon was undone  by an unfortunately placed trench just as he was starting his sprint to the line and I was able to chalk up yet another major scalp. We rolled on home via the Glen of the Downs and on to Bray , Crinken Glen, Lordello Road before the final run up the Ballycorus Rd.

On the hill in to Stepaside  Neil casually suggested a further sprint up the last  hill to the speed post. New riders out for their first few spins need to learn the etiquette behind these sprints. It is considered inappropriate for them not to ease up imperceptibly as they near the line. Due to a breach in the rules, this sprint was deemed null and void and will not be recorded in the record books.  A great spin of some 95k round trip from Sepaside leaving most of us with 110k on the day at a more than respectable 26.3kph for such a hilly route.

As of next week a points competition will begin on the Saturday spins running to an arbitrarily determined point in the season to be named at a later date in the year by the jury.
3 points for a victory, 2 for 2nd, 1 for 3rd. No doping control.

BK

CLUB SPIN REPORT 17th APRIL

By Brian Kilbride

Great Spin from Tallaght this weekend. We were a rider down from the outset as Brendan was caught in a more than minor altercation with a people carrier and came off worse in the exchange. Thankfully nothing more than bruising resulted and hopefully he will spend his time recovering, choosing a suitable replacement steed.

Nine riders were able to set out and magnificent weather had everyone in good form from the outset and added a little extra pep to our pedalstokes. A hilly spin was therefore in order so we headed for Saggart then up to Slade Valley. Andy allowed the prime be taken by Dave as he was keeping his heart rate under the 120 mark - being racing the following day. Over the top and down to Manor Kilbride and on up the Sally Gap with a west wind assisting greatly. Again at the top many claimed to have been keeping the powder dry.

Some turned at the top to head back over the Dublin mountains while most headed on down for Glenmacnass and Laragh. The road has recently been resurfaced and although there was a bit of gravel still remaining to be driven in, it was in better shape than a little earlier in the year and should be excellent within a few weeks. The road was populated with cyclists from a running, rowing, cycling event going on in Glendalough and we were able to offer some shelter from the wind for some of those who were willing to compromise their principals in an effort to get home earlier.

Coffee in Laragh was very pleasant in the sunshine but eventually we convinced ourselves to get back on the bikes. The spin back through Roundwood to the Sugar Loaf was packed with sandbagging tactics followed by macho posturing and some aggressive racing across the Calary Bog. There was carnage across the plain with riders cramping and lungs giving out. The madness stopped at the Sugar Loaf and Kevin was able to give us some yoga tips for later on to sort out our aching limbs. Namaste.

We regrouped and plotted a route for the flattest way home. The weather remained sunny and the wind favourable for our route home through Bray and even though we were all knackered it's amazing what a warming sun on your back will do for your morale. Hopefully more of the same next week when we start from Stepaside.
BK

ANDRE WINS PATRICK KENNEDY CUP (AGAIN!) 18.04.10

Stamullen was the location for an action packed weekend of racing. Sunday's programme of events saw great success for our lads. Andre Engemann last won the Patrick Kennedy Cup in 2006 and today took it back home to Kerry after a fine victory in the A2 event. Held over six laps of the gruelling Stamullen circuit, Andre proved that his previous success was no fluke.

In the A3 event, Alan Cody again showed his strength and continuing good form to claim 9th place. This comes only a week after his 3rd place in the Des Hanlon. In the A4 event, Ray showed that he is going from strength to strength when he was in the group sprinting for victory. Brendan Bonnie made a spectacular debut to Open Racing, climbing well and chasing down anyone foolish enough to try and drop him. Together with Barry and Andy, they finished in a chasing group a couple of minutes behind Ray. Althogether, we had eight riders competing today and everyone showed signs of improvement. Things are looking up for our growing racing section.

On Saturday, Brendan O'Brien was the poor innocent victim in a traffic accident, on the way to the meeting point. Luckily, he escaped with only bumps and bruises but sadly his bike and helmet were damaged beyond repair. He's currently recovering. Very sore but no broken bones. Get well soon Brendan.

FLANDERS 2010

Read Brian Kilbride's action packed report here

ALAN CODY 3rd IN CARLOW 11.04.10

Congratulations to Alan Cody for his impressive 3rd in the Des Hanlon Memorial A3 race today. In the very tough 65 mile event, he claimed his first (of many!) points for the year. Riding against many riders who had the extra benefit of having ridden the Easter stage races, Alan was strong enough to take 3rd, behind winner, Conchubhar O'Crualaoich (Wexford Wheelers) and Greg Dempsey (Barrow Wheelers).

In the A4 event, we had four riders. Ray, Tulga, Barry and Andy. While Andy spent most of the day swinging at the back of the cavalcade, the other three lads performed admirably and were very close to claiming placings. It's great to see all their hard work over the winter beginning to show with stronger showings each week. Well done to all.

CLUB SPIN REPORT 3rd APRIL

By Andy Lakes

We were expecting bad weather but had a lovely sunny spin on Saturday. With the Knowledge that Mr. Kilbride was battling around the cobbles in Flanders, we felt we needed to do something a little bit harder than usual. With quite a strong group out, we decided to throw in some hard intervals and some hill climb primes. First big effort was just before Bray Head. While some of us opted for a more leisurely pace up the climb, the stronger riders did an extra loop at race pace before beginning the ascent. We regrouped further along the coast road with no riders having to stop. A couple of the lads headed home from this point while we made our way across to Ashford. Barry couldn't resist a few extra miles towards Rathnew and rejoined us there.

We climbed up the 'Easy' Devil's Glen and we all had a few digs towards the top, making it quite tough. Another few attacks and counter attacks saw us all sail gracefully into Roundwood at quite a strong pace. After the descent from Long Hill and final climb of the Poggio, some lads forged on ahead while the rest of us took it a little bit easier, "to disperse the lactic acid'. I reckon it was about 90k on the day at quite a nice competitive pace. We're trying to get more leisure riders out to give riders the option of an easier pace so we can split the group to suit all, without individuals having to head home alone. If you are heading out on your own on Saturdays, why not set the alarm that bit earlier and come along with us. We are currently able to cater for all tastes and paces!

Hope to see you out on the bike soon,

Andy

UPCOMING DEPARTURE POINTS & EVENTS

WOMEN'S CYCLING WEEKEND, MULLINGAR 27th & 28th MARCH

By Susan Lakes 

The Women's Cycling Ireland training weekend took place in Mullingar on 27th and 28th March. Based in the lovely Annebrook Hotel, a gang of over 60 ladies hit the roads under the expert guidance of the Coaches on hand.  We were divided into groups based on experience, and put through our paces.  My group did about 40K both days, practising our up and over skills and staying close to the wheel in front.  We did some team time trial work and managed to build up more speed than I thought we had in us.  We were shown a good circuit on quiet roads by the local club riders and found a nice sharp turn to practise our cornering, and we did some strength work (standing starts).  We did a fair bit of shouting too, hole, last man, that kind of stuff.  We also got to have fun in a local park, in on the grass playing bike chasing, practising pushing and shoving and trying to stay on the bike!  We had a very competitive slow race, tried my very hardest to come last but no luck there I'm afraid, didn't make it onto the podium this time. 

We did some post-spin analysis with the coaches and had a talk from Women's Commission of Cycling Ireland.  We also got some bike maintenance advice, were shown how to take wheels off and more importantly put them back on, and got to change a tube. 

All in all it was an excellent weekend, I learned a lot and am starting to feel more comfortable riding in a group.  Met some familiar faces and made some nice new contacts too.  I went from thinking I could never race, to thinking maybe next year in the Women's leagues.....
Here's the link to the official report : http://womenscycling.ie/blog/2010/03/28/womens-cycling-weekend-march-2010/#more-3650

CLUB SPIN REPORT SATURDAY 27TH MARCH

By Kevin McNamee

On Saturday last 6 riders headed west for a change of scenery. We went through Lucan, Lexlip and around Carton Estate to Kilcock, Celbridge, Newcastle and back to Dundrum. The roads were quite with mainly good surfaces. Conditions could be described as blustery to start and with the appearance of the sun later in the morning temperatures began to increase. A few training intervals, 85K and a tail wind on the way home helped to make it a very enjoyable workout for most of us!

CLUB SPIN REPORT 20th MARCH

By Brian Kilbride

An uncanny similarity between the dramatic events in San Remo on this past saturday where and old campaigner who many thought as having seen his best days, gave a textbook lesson to young pretenders, on the art of sprinting , and those on the outskirts of Newtownmountkennedy. Greg McCambridge was kicking ass and taking names on the sprint to the town limits.

We had all been softened up by a 20 minute interval at a spirited pace between Kilcoole and Rathnew. We had a small respite then a 5 minute interval in to Glenealy, before turning back into a headwind over the hill to Ashford. A quick feed stop then another tough 20 minutes to Newtownmountkennedy and on then through Glen of the Downs, Enniskerry and home. Eight out for the trip, 95K on the day by the time we made it home,at 27kph.

ANDRE ENGEMANN 2nd IN NEWBRIDGE - 14/03/10

Congratulations are in order for Andre Engemann who kicked off his 2010 results with a fine 2nd place in the A2 category today in Newbridge. Racing on Saturday as well didn't adversly affect him today in a highly competitive edition of the popular Newbridge GP. Andrew Aherne, from Dan Morrisey took 1st place ahead of Andre

COMPETITION: Spot the flat section of road. (WINNER RECEIVES A PAT ON THE BACK)

Check out the route of Saturday's (13.03.10) spin here, and see if you can find at least one section where we weren't either grovelling up a climb or tearing down a greasy descent. Thanks to Brian Kilbride for the excellent route and Dave Comiskey for the MapMyRide link.

LEISURE EVENTS 2010

Check out our Leisure Section for Kevin McNamee's list of events that might interest you in 2010.

DUBLIN WHEELERS GP & MICK LALLY MEMORIAL - 6th MARCH

Report by Ray Jordan

Last week's trio of myself, Tuk and Stef was almost doubled in representation in Dunboyne on Saturday, as Eamon made his seasonal comeback and Alan made his St Tiernan's debut.  In almost perfect cycling conditions on a warm, sunny day there was a huge turnout of 197 for the 50km A3/A4 and longer A1/A2 race. The race route was changed to two laps and four laps respectively, of the green sheds circuit which is mainly flat with few drags.

The overall pace of the A4 race was quite sedate for the first lap and turning onto the Trim Road heading back towards Batterstown a group of 7 riders got clear on the bend but were split into two groups.  I managed to make the move across to the middle group but we were unable to catch the four leaders and ended up being dragged back to the main bunch with a considerable headwind proving too difficult to overcome. At this stage the A3 group had caught the A4s and there were 100+ riders in the bunch.  What turned out to be the winning break went clear after that and Alan made it into it.  Behind, there were a
couple of crashes in the bunch and a couple of near misses involving cars.

Stefan, Tuk and I all finished in the main bunch but could not find gaps through to contest the sprint. Frustratingly, this had been the problem for the last 15km as it was impossible to weave through.  We
were all quite satisfied to finish in the bunch as we continue to build form.

Congratulations to Alan for getting 8th place in the race.  Great to see the STCC jerseys up there and hopefully this will continue to happen throughout the season.

CLUB SPIN REPORT 6th MARCH

by Andy Lakes

Route link here

With some of our regular Saturday riders taking part in the races out at Dunboyne, we were pleasantly surprised with a good turnout at Park Vale. New rider, Brendan, was honoured by the presence of our club chairman who came along to inspire us all. We toyed with the idea of heading over to look at the races, but a majority vote decided we should make the most of the good weather and have a good training spin instead.

With no sign of ice, we set off on the Enniskerry Road and, using some quieter roads, made our way out to Bray. We hit Bray Head and raced our way to the top, with Brendan showing impressive strength and acceleration while putting us all under pressure. When we rolled over the top, we split the group with five riders going on ahead while the remainder picked a slightly less intense pace and a more scenic route.

The five who forged ahead consisted of Kevin, (the new) Brendan, Dave, Robbie and myself. After we recovered from our earlier climbing effort, we began a twenty minute steady state effort, which gradually grew in intensity as we approached Ashford. Robbie had to be home early so bade us farewell and headed back. For our next challenge, we took on 'Easy' Devil's Glen. With the adrenalin flowing, it was hard for anyone to escape, but Kevin's superior strength shattered the group near the summit where he powered away and quickly opened up a large gap by the time he sailed over the finish line.

After a brief stop in Roundwood to stock up on fluids, we had another very tough interval into a headwind which took us to the descent off Long Hill. With our King of the Mountains competition coming down to the final climb of the Poggio, I nipped off the front with victory on my mind, only to be mercilessly pipped at the post by a rampant Kevin who again showed that he hasn't spent the Winter with his feet up.

Those of us who took the hillier route really enjoyed a hard spin with lots of quality training. It was tough but I think with the little bit of structure, we were able to recover between each effort. It'd be great if we could get more of our Leisure riders out so that all riders have the option of choosing a group which suits their needs each week. Looking forward to next week already.

RACE REPORT - DUNDALK 28th FEB

By Ray Jordan

For the second week, the same trio of riders (Stef, Tuk & I) turned up in Dundalk on Sunday to race but continued to suffer bad luck following the abandonment of last Sunday's race due to snow.  We were to experience a series of individual bad luck, but we're all still in one piece.
 
The misfortune began for Tulga who was told he couldn't get a one day licence for A4 category. This meant he had to compete in the main handicapped race of 84km as an A3, with the A2s and A1s chasing behind. This was a very tough ask in terms of standard and distance for someone competing in their first open race.  Personally I think it makes a mockery of Cycling Ireland's policy on the newly formed A4 category. Surely this category was introduced for new riders and it does not make sense to me that A4 riders cannot get one day licences. Tuk rode well in the race for 5 of the 7 laps before pulling out alongside many more riders once the A1s caught the group.  If the pace hadn't increased by the A2s and A1s, I'm sure he would have been fine with the pace until the end as he continues to build form.
 
Stefan's bad luck was a rear wheel puncture just as the groups merged on the 5th lap.  It was an unfortunate time for this to occur just as the race moved towards the business end. I guess punctures are just part of bike racing, but frustrating nonetheless.
 
For me, I had a crash on a corner on the first lap, coming off the bike.  It was partly my fault for not knowing the circuit, but the marshalling by one guy on a 4 road crossroads I felt was inadequate. I got back on my bike and tried to catch onto the bunch again, but couldn't make it.  I rode another couple of circuits with some dropped riders until I sat up until the big group came up and then rode most of the second last circuit at the back with them before finally blowing after 4 laps, and pulling over to watch the finish.  I will be sporting a new helmet and tights next time you see me as these bit the dust in the crash. Apart from a bit of road rash and some bruising and swelling, I'm fine.
 
Hopefully we'll have better luck next Saturday in Dunboyne.

CLUB SPIN REPORT 27th FEB

By Barry Doyle

Ray, Tuk, Eamon, Greg, Kevin, Cormac, Mark, Adrian & I met up at Parkvale on Saturday morning. Having decided to head inland Robbie had the misfortune to puncture twice within the first few miles. Gentleman that he is, he insisted we head on as he sought the cause of the problem.
 
The six remaining riders headed for Rathcoole with Ray & Tuk spinning home, just out to loosen up for their efforts the next day. We tackled the drag past Rathcoole at a tasty interval that I must admit I had trouble with and did two ten minute intervals on the way to Sallins. Sallins to Prosperous was travelled along the banks of the Grand Canal and was a glorious spin with the sun out, swans on the Canal and only the poor surface to put us off.
 
We stopped at Prosperous before heading back through Clane and another ten minutes interval to Barberstown. Eamon, our route maestro for the day, took us through Ardclough for a couple of small but sharp climbs leading our way home through Rathcoole, City West and on to Parkvale.
 
A good morning out with 105km's on the clock.

WEXFORD TRAINING CAMP 20th & 21st FEB

By Brian Kilbride

The second club trip to Carrigbyrne was a big success. Two great days of cycling while other parts of the country were frozen over and two perfect sunny winter days. We assembled at 10am and got our bikes together. We went over the maps and had a cup of tea and by 11,we were suitably happy with our grooming for the team photo. Perfect.

 

Rob, Brian and Brendan prepare for a hard day around Wexford...

 

It was 4 degrees and we were going to retrace the route of last year only this time in perfect winter sunshine We headed out for Campile and then on down to Arthurstown and Duncannon where we felt obliged to mark our passing with yet another group photo. We were into a slight south westerly wind but made good progress to the Hook where we were fortunate to find a local to snap a pickie of the lads for posterity.

 

Brian and Rob could not resist the temptation of heading back to the Templars Inn for some sustainance. The rest of us had a hankering for some local history and moved on to view the sites of Tintern Abbey. No sight of the young lad with the exotic quif though which was disappointing. 

 

Andy was amazed to hear the Tintin books weren't written here.....

 

Once we were satisfied with how the snaps looked we were on the road again. Andy ensured Brendan had a thorough work out with a powerful interval into Wellingtonbridge. Bren was keen to get back for a warming bowl of soup after a worthy 90K. Andy, Barry and myself were keen to see the coast and and so hammered our way down the opposite side of Bannow bay and on to Kilmore Quay. Barry's track prowess was evident on the third interval but was no match for Andy's cunning (and previous sandbagging) and was pipped at the speed sign on the run in to town.

 

Barry cuts a dash in Kilkmore Quay

 

 

Three creamy pints and a ham, cheese, tomato and onion toastie are not what Dr Alan Lim is having Dan Martin chow down on mid spin but feck him.  We were going to keep it old school. The trek home in the fading evening light through Taghmon were on some very tough heavy lumpy roads. To keep our interest we decided to finish with a race to the top of the 2km hill to the Cedar Lodge Hotel and Andy dug deep one more time with the first attack. I was next to go but Barry clawed me back before going some 300 metres from the top himself. I was able to peg him back and go again for my first win of the season.

 I don't reckon my palmares will be very long by the end of my career so I feel it is important to document even these victories in the smaller events.  It is also a satisfying feeling to establish myself as currently the vet with the best competitive record in the club in 2010. Could I possibly hold on till September?

 

We ran in to our host Bart Curtis on the run in home. He was out for 30K to open the tubes. If we are doing the same in our 82nd year we will be doing well.

 

Bart smiles while Andy is intimidated by someone even smaller than himself.

 

Soup and refreshments were available on arrival. We had done 130 K at near 26 kph. A spruce up and then a nice meal and a couple of night caps by the fire followed. I'm ashamed to say that the group was all in their beds by 2245. Tiernan's training weekends are not what they used to be.

 

Everyone was up an ready for the team portrait by 10am. Seamus McDonnell was once again to sit in behind any wheel he could find for shelter. We headed for Slieve Coilte. It's a beautiful climb up 4 switchbacks and through the park associated with the JFK Arboretum. It rises to about 180M above the surrounding plain with views across seven counties. We were able to get a little cyclocross in on the way to the summit. Andy claimed the king of the mountains points and the much talked about podium placing at Stamullen may yet be on the cards. 

 

Splendid poses while Brian hayden is disgusted that the climb was only 200 metres

 

We split at the bottom of the climb in two groups with one group heading home and the more enthusiastic heading for New Ross. The climb up through the town was a dead ringer for the Tenbosse. On then across the Nore and on to The Rower before descending to Graiguenamanagh.

 

The beautiful Nore (and the average Andy).

 

Half way down, my rear wheel seized as the block came loose. Myself and Andy decided to cut our losses and head for home via the backroads through Old Ross for 90 k on the day. Seamus was able to head on over Brandon hill where he had been so cruelly shelled out the back last year. He tells me he went up it like Ricardo Ricco this year before flying back down the scenic Nore Valley, New Ross and Carrigyrne.

 

It was a fantastic social and cycling weekend. We were able to award Bart honorary membership for services to the club and there is a Tiernan's Jersey which will be presented on arrival of the new shipment to him. We hope it will be sported with pride around the Model county for many years to come.

The rest of us return to Dublin in good shape for the business end of the season.

BK

Andy, Barry, Brian K, Brendan, Rob and Brian H before setting off on the 130km Stage 1

Considering purchasing an old lighthouse for use on future training camps near Duncannon

We resisted popping in for tea at Hook Head

Sunday's spin resembled parts of Flanders or perhaps Paris-Roubaix

CLUB SPIN REPORT 13th FEBRUARY

By Brian Kilbride

The club is in need of a late model Skoda Superb or other adapted saloon car fitted out with a rear sun roof for Brian Hayden to spend his time observing the riders and issuing instructions and generally keeping things in line. 15 out again on Saturday last . We went with the safer option of Park vale start but it was not as icy as predicted.

We got out to Newcastle pretty quickly before splitting in to  two groups, The racing group did a few circuits of high quality around Straffan with 3x20 minute intervals before making their way home for about 110k on the day. A five man group did much the same circuit at a more leisurely pace again ending up with about 100K on the day.

We were, however, hampered by five punctures on the day and indeed there would be great advantage to be had from having someone in the back of a skoda fixing punctures and replacing wheels.

It's important if we do have large numbers out, that we are strict about obeying traffic lights and not swarming around cars to get to the front. We need to be conscious that everyone is able to make it through a junction safely so no amber gambling. Invariably we end up waiting for everyone to bunch up in the end and no time saving has been achieved.

First race this sunday  and a group down in Wexford for the training weekend. A more informal group will likely assemble at Parkvale. There will be no formal beginner group however new riders are welcome to come along and se how long they can hang on, you might end up making your way home on your own but it is good to test yourself now and again and see where on the cycling totem pole you are. It is also good to get a little pain and suffering early in your career- character forming they say.

BK
 

UPCOMING DEPARTURE POINTS 

JOE TANSEY R.I.P. (16.02.10)

It is with great sadness that we report the passing of Joe Tansey. Joe was a pillar in the community and through Joe Daly's bikeshop, has helped promote and support cycling and cyclists over many decades. He will be sadly missed. St. Tiernan's CC offer their deepest condolences to Joe's family and friends at this time.

CLUB SPIN 6TH FEBRUARY REPORT

By Brian Kilbride

Adrian, Tulga, Brian, Paul and Barry after a steady state interval.

A cold wet dirty day on Saturday saw 14 of us head off from the Park. It was a great turnout and great to see so many new members out and in such fine early season form.

It started raining as we headed off and there seemed to be a continuous drizzle for the first couple of hours. This was grim, dirty, nasty weather. It had Kevin reminiscing about winters of his childhood. Roads were mucky and broken.  After the first hour we were looking like closing time at the colliery. I think I saw Ken Loach at the side of the road with a film crew and come to think of it, that explains those pesky kestrels. It was a day for manly men (no offence, Susan). It was grim.

We kept a nice steady pace out as far as Dunboyne before splitting into groups. The beginner group did a lap of the Mullagh and planned where exactly they would launch their attacks from come the business end of the season. 

The lead group of 9 headed out to Trim via Summerhill and back via Batterstown at a pretty good lick, doing 20,15,and 15 minute intervals at about 80% before a 10 minute threshold sprint at race pace into Dunboyne. It was a real quality spin of roughly 95 K out and back from the centre of the park at 27 kph average speed, leaving most of us with 110 to 120k on the day by the time we got home.

BK

CLUB SPIN 30TH JANUARY REPORT

By Brian Kilbride

Good spin on saturday morning making the best of a bad lot. It was sunny but barely above freeezing . The side roads were a little frosty which no doubt explained the lower than normal turnout but six of us headed for howth for a a few gentle exertions. We did three trips up and down the hill in as big a gear as we could manage, keeping revs between 20 and 60 /min, all the while balancing a copy of the King James bible on our knees and maintaining the most perfect upper body posturing and heart rates less than threshold. Needless to say there were casualties but it was a worthwhile exercise.

We decided to loop home via Baldoyle and Portmarnock for a more than respectable 90 K. I unfortunately had to take the Dart home from Sutton X as my seat post snapped, such was the power I was laying down on the Hill of Howth. I'll be getting in touch with Chris Hoy to see can he recommend me a suitable replacement. No damage done and my family is complete, should you be asking.

Hope to see you next week. Again we might aim for a Park start with a view to getting a few intervals on the flatter roads around Meath. Again keep an eye on the website and emails as if it is looking frosty we may change back to a Parkvale start.
BK

CLUB SPIN 23rd JANUARY

Report by Brian Kilbride

Great spin this saturday gone by - 12 out on a cold but sunny morning barely above freezing.
We were reasonably optimistic that it would heat up so we decided to head inland for the Park and then on to Meath. The centre of the city was shrouded in fog but the roads were fine heading out through Porterstown. Once we got past Dunboyne however, it was like a Xmas postcard scene with frost and ice all around.

We decided to give Trim a miss and headed back for Dunboyne and Maynooth where we could do a couple of steady state intervals for 20minutes and then again for a further 15 from Celbridge to Newcastle. By the end of the second interval we were reminiscent of an East German Track team from the mid eighties. I would be distraught if anyone were ever to consider me a cycling snob but I would like to remind riders that when we are out representing the club, it's important not to look like an unruly mob of shoppers at the doors opening on the first day of the release of the new iPhone at the Tokyo branch D.I.D Electrical. Quite apart from energy savings accrued through maintaining our discipline on the road, we do have our reputations in the wider cycling community to think about.

In the end we had clocked up 90K at 26kph which was pretty reasonable for the middle of January. Could I suggest we try meet at the Phoenix Park on next Saturday. Another Flat spin would do us good and we could try some intervals(20' x2-3) . The long range forecast seems to be for cold so if people keep an eye on the website and email for updates as we may have to switch back to Parkvale if it is going to be frosty and keep it coastal.

Hope to see you there.
BK

ST. TIERNAN'S CC WISH YOU A VERY HAPPY CHRISTMAS AND A FANTASTIC NEW YEAR!!!!

CHRISTMAS SOCIAL SPIN 19TH DECEMBER

By Brian Kilbride

Oisin, Barry, Tulga, Eamon, Adrian and Brian in Greystones

While some people feel that riding around in a Tuk Tuk to Patpong and the steamier parts of Bangkok constitutes getting the miles in, there are others in the club who enjoy their S+M without the sadism. Six perverse souls assembled at Parkvale for the Christmas social spin on saturday morning. It was brassers. A cold north westerly breeze, and temperatures just above freezing meant we would have to stay near the coast. The south western suburbs, we presumed, were frozen solid as a few texted regrets were received just prior to the off.

As always though once up and going through Stepaside then down to Bray it all began to seem slightly more pleasant. Due to the breeze overnight, the roads remained frost free. We ventured up around the Glen of the Downs Golf Course and the back of the Little Sugar Loaf. New members Tulga and Adrian were prominent up front and keeping the pace pace high on the climb up above Delgany, while others were more than happy to hang back and examine their style from a distance. We headed on to Kilcoole, and Newcastle before a right towards Coyne's Cross, then right again at Ballyvolan Lower up our new favourite climb on the quiet back road to NTMK. The Hill split us into a fast group and a more methodical group who where happier to concentrate on a slower smoother pedalling action. A small consolation for reduced fitness was felt as we arrived for coffee in Greystones. The first group had taken a detour and had spent 10 minutes waiting for us and were now lagging behind . Again the coffee shop at the southern end of the town came through with selection of chocolate cake, caramel slices, soups, scones and bakewells that really would merit Michellin recognition. We were able to justify the excesses knowing that we were certainly improving our descending.

Oisin, Brian and an overjoyed Eamon in the warmth of the coffee shop

Remounting the steeds (I'm trying to steer away from the adult metaphors but just can't seem to) , it took till half way up the hill towards Bray head before the circulation got going again. Two punctures in quick succession outside Bray could not dampen spirits and we finally got Eamon to confess to his secret infatuation with 40s starlet Carmen Miranda. We wound our way back through Shankill and home for a hilly 75K at about 25kph.

Eamon dreams of Carmen Miranda as he cheerfully changes a tube

Hope to see you on the road  for some social spins over the holidays before knuckling down to some more hard grinds in the new year.
 
BK
 

UPCOMING MEETING POINT

CHRISTMAS HAMPER RACE 13TH DECEMBER 2009

Tulga, Barry, Brian, Ray & Andy after the race (picture by Oisin Purcell)

Sunday 13th

Cold, dry conditions kept us company as we awaited the start of the Hamper Race on Sunday. It was so cold that it was difficult to stop shivering. Brian Hayden performed admirably by organising a small group of marshals and a large group of riders. Brian had taken time out of his very busy schedule to ensure we had another successful event this year.

Representing St. Tiernans's we had Ray, Barry, Tulga (Tuk), and myself. Oisin arrived only to find his brake blocks were damaged (for damaged, read missing) and rather than head home, he stayed to help with marshalling duties.

We set off at a nice steady pace which quickly built up as we approached the Mullagh drag. Barry and Tulga were taking part in their first race as St. Tiernan's members and rode very strongly. As the race developed, Ray was able to keep an eye out for our new lads as they participated in dragging the group along. All I could do was look on in admiration from my precarious position at the back of the group. After a break of a few years, I was happy to be able to simply hang on (some would say, scrub) as we sped around the two lap course.

The leaders approaching the Mullagh drag on lap 2

Neil Delahaye led the charge from the scratch group and the pace went up again as more and more riders came across the gap. As we approached the finish, Ray and Tulga were both very active and kept in touch with the lead group. Tulga then dug deep and powered across the line in a top 15 position. Not bad for someone who only got his bike during the Summer!

Afterwards, as we reflected upon the race, I think we all were fairly satisfied with the morning's results. It was fantastic to see Tulga ride so well on his racing debut with us. Overall, Neil Delahaye was a deserved winner, followed by Brendan and Fergus Whelan from Lucan. 

Special thanks again to Brian Hayden for his organisational skills and good humour throughout. It is very difficult to set the handicap times and position the marshals to enable us to race safely. Thanks also to all the marshals who gave up their precious time. It's very much appreciated.

Andy

AGM

Thanks to eveyone who came along and participated in the AGM. See you out on the Bike!

UPCOMING MEETING POINTS

UPDATE (POSTED: 6TH OCTOBER)

We've had a busy few days in the club over the past week. On Thursday (1st), our first group coaching night went very well. 13 riders were there and we had a very productive evening indeed. Special thanks to Anto for hosting the evening so professionally.

Saturday's spin was like a Belgian classic. A light drizzle quickly became horizontal driving rain. Our small group of determined riders battled through grim conditions to return home, happy in the knowledge that it was a job well done. Of course, once we reached home, the sun decided to pop its head out to taunt us.

Sunday's ride took us out through Enniskerry with the stronger riders doing a loop towards Laragh. We had very good weather which made it that bit more enjoyable.

Hope to see you all back out on the bike soon.

Brian Hayden sets off on yet another epic spin........

EAMON 11th OVERALL IN CHARLEVILLE 2-DAY

Eamon Peregrine capped off a fine season with 11th Overall in the Charleville 2-Day. Eamon was riding as a guest rider with Orwell Dundrum Town Centre and was the highest placed finisher on the team. Strong riding throughout the road stages and 12th in the Time Trial secured his impressive final overall position. Special thanks to Mark Dunne for allowing Eamon to borrow his Time Trial bike during the event. Charles Prendergast, form the National Junior Team took the overall victory in what was a hard fought edition of the race.

ANDRE ENGEMANN IS CHAMPION OF LEINSTER!!!

Congratulations to Andre for winning the Leinster Road Race Championship Veterans' Race today (13th September). He took victory ahead of Orwell's Stephen McNally and Terry Ferris from Murphy & Gunn. Andre has ahd a very successful season and has been in the prizes in almost every race he's entered this year.

RACE AROUND IRELAND

As many of you may already know, Joe Conway and friends are participating in the inaugural Race Around Ireland next Wednesday, 16th September. The team event departs at 8pm from Navan. They are hoping to raise funds for their chosen charities, Barnardos and the Dublin Simon Community. You may wish to sponsor the lads and this can be on on their website here.

BEGINNERS' SPIN SUNDAY 6th SEPTEMBER

Thanks to everyone who came along to our Introductory/Beginners spin. There were some very good riders out and we hope you enjoyed your spin. We hope to develop these spins over the Autumn and Winter and invite you to come along next week (13th September).

SEAN KELLY TOUR OF WATERFORD

Brendan, Brian and Ray celebrate another successful day

Click here to read Brian Kilbride's excellent event report

PAUL HEALION

St. Tiernan´s CC wish to offer their condolences to the family of Paul Healion, who tragically passed away at the weekend. May he rest in peace.

KILBRIDE IN THE POINTS! - 14th AUGUST

Randonee hardman, Brian Kilbride, rode strongly last night to take 6th in the Semi-Limit Inter Club race. After years of domination of the so called Leisure events, it looks like Brian has turned his eyes towards competitive victorys. We can only feel sympathy for his rivals. Well done Brian!

ETAPE DU TOUR 2009

Read Ray Jordan's report on this year's epic ride to Mont Ventoux here.

CASSIDY AND ENGEMANN IN THE RESULTS!

Congratulations to Colm Cassidy for winning in Kentstown in the IVCA Race. There was also another fine result from Andre, when he finished 4th in the Swords GP.

RACE AROUND IRELAND

Joe Conway and a group of friends are participating in the 2009 Race Around Ireland. This is an incredible 1350 mile (2109km) race around Ireland which is to be completed inside 96 hours. The four lads are doing it to raise funds for Barnardos and the Dublin Simon Community so any donations are very much appreciated. To find out more, visit www.midlifecyclists.net

ANDRE IN THE PRIZES AGAIN

Andre added to his already impressive string of results for the 2009 season with 3rd in the Eddie Tobin Memorial Road Race in Enniscorthy at the weekend. In a hotly contested event, Andre finished the final sprint just behind Sean Bracken (Usher IRC) and race winner, Conchubhar O'Crualaoich (Wexford Wheelers).

MEANWHILE, IN FRANCE..........

The waiting is finally over. The question that was on everyone's lips has been answered. A big team. Two riders with clashing egos. One, an older man with a lot to prove. The other, much younger but with great climbing ability. We wondered would they have a falling out on the Ventoux? Would pride get the better of them? Would they even be on speaking terms by the end? You're right, we can only be talking of Kevin and Ray's trip to the Etape. Luckily, they got on well and safely completed an epic week in the Alps. Who else would head up Alpe D'Huez to loosen up their legs a few days after Mont Ventoux? In other news, some Spanish chap won the Tour de France.

EAMON AND ANDRE IN THE RESULTS (AGAIN!)

Andre finished 4th in last week's (12th July) Mark Hayden Memorial and 4th again in the Kay Stratton Memorial to continue his amazing run of results this year. Meanwhile, Eamon Peregrine followed his strong showing in both the National Criterium and National Road Race Championships with a fantastic 2nd place in Saturday's (18th July)Ballivor GP. Congratulations yet again to both lads for keeping the flag flying on the domestic racing scene.

EAMON PEREGRINE TAKES CHAMPIONSHIP GOLD

Eamon Peregrine beat Stefan Engemann to claim Club Champion status for 2009 in Brittas on Thursday 2nd July.

RESULTS UPDATES

Here are some race results which were missed out by our website. Apologies to Andre and Colm Cassidy for the omissions:

Ken O'Keefe Memorial: 1st - Andre Engemann

IVCA Dick O'Brien Cup: 4th - Colm Cassidy

IVCA Curragh DMS: 3rd - Colm Cassidy

IVCA Summerhill DMS: 4th - Colm Cassidy

IVCA Kentstown DMS: 1st - Colm Cassidy

John Drumm Memorial: 4th - Andre Engemann

Tommy Sheehan Memorial: 2nd - Andre Engemann

ANDRE FINISHES 2ND IN VETERAN NATIONAL ROAD RACE CHAMPIONSHIPS

A very impressive performance on Saturday saw Andre Engemann underline his incredible form with a silver medal in the Veteran National Road Race Championships. In a very strong field, Andre made it into the decisive break of the race and then managed to escape with Rory Wyley with 10 miles to go. The two riders worked well together to keep ahead of the chasing field. Wyley came out on top as the two riders sprinted for the win. Tom Shanahan came in a minute later to claim bronze.

Earlier in the week, on Wednesday evening, Eamon Peregrine showed again that he is coming into form with a strong ride in the National Criterium Championships/Stephen Roche Criterium in Dundrum. In a very high quality field, Eamon was our sole representative and was active throughout the race to finish in the bunch sprinting for 7th.

MARK HUGHES RETURNS TO GLORY DAYS

Congratulations to Mark Hughes for finishing as 1st Unplaced 'C' on Stage 2 of the Stagg 3 Day in Batterstown. Mark has had very little time to train this year which makes the result all the more impressive.

NOTICE:

All in St. Tiernan's CC wish to offer their deepest condolences to Mark Dunne and Family. Our thoughts and prayers are with you.

ANDRE ENGEMANN DOES IT AGAIN! - 6th June

In very bad weather conditions, Andre Engemann took a fine 4th place in Saturday's Christy McManus Memorial, in Roundwood. Heavy rain and strong winds took its toll on the field, but Andre battled on and made it into the decisive move of the day to finish 20 seconds behind winner, Fiacha O'Murchi, from Usher IRC.

ANDRE ENGEMANN 2ND IN GARRISTOWN - 4th JUNE

Following his 2nd place in Wexford last weekend, Andre Engemann yet again rode very strongly throughout the Kathleen O'Sullivan Memorial in Garristown last night (4th June). After some unsuccessful early attacks, he was still strong enough to escape the bunch on the climb to the finish to finish 2nd behind Michael McCarthy of Swords CC.

DOM PERIGNON SPARKLES IN WEXFORD - 31st MAY

Eamon 'Dom Perignon' Peregrine took 8th in the hotly contested Frank O’Rourke Memorial in Wexford on Sunday. Eamon has been racing aggressively all season but has had bad luck with punctures and illness. Hopefully, this is a sign that his luck has changed for the better. Meanwhile, in the day's Combined Race, Andre Engemann yet again finished in a high position. He took 2nd behind Rory Wyley.

ANDRE WINS IN EMYVALE

Andre Engemann continued his recent run of results with a win in Emvale on Sunday (24th). Well done from all at the club.

HILL CLIMB TT START POINT

The hill climb start point is approx 50 metres before the bridge on the R114 (the road from the mill pub). This is the same point that has been used over recent years.

UPCOMING MEETING POINTS (all spins depart at 9.30am)

16th May   Phoenix Park, Chesterfield Avenue, Phoenix Monument.
23rd May   Park Vale.
30th May   Tallaght. Maldron Hotel/Shamrock Rovers Stadium.

ANDRE ENGEMANN 4TH IN KEIRAN HAMMOND MEMORIAL (10th MAY)

Andre Engemann took 4th place in the Keiran Hammond Memorial in Ballyboughal. Andre was active throughout the race and made it into the race winning break. It came down to a sprint which was won by Stephen McNally (Orwell Wheelers).

BRIAN LENNON ANNIVERSARY MASS

There is an Anniversary mass for Brian Lennon on Monday 11th May at 12.45pm in Westland Row Church (right beside the dart station). This has kindly been organised by his former work colleagues.

TOUR OF ULSTER: 2nd - 4th MAY

See our action packed* report from an incredibly tough Tour of Ulster, click here.

*may not be action packed, or indeed, accurate.

4th & 5th FOR ST. TIERNAN'S 23.04.09

There was another strong showing by our club riders in Thursday's Inter-Club League. The evening hosted the first DMS night of this year's league and in the Semi-Limit race, Stefan Engemann took 4th place with league leader, Brendan O'Brien taking 5th. This leaves Brendan in joint 1st place in the Overall League table.

ST. TIERNAN'S AT FLECHE WALLONNE 22.04.09

Alan, Oisin, Ray, Brian and Brendan with energy drinks in Huy.

WEEKEND RESULTS 18/19th APRIL

On Saturday evening in the Monie Nolan Memorial in Stamullen, Cian Crowley took 1st B in a hotly contested edition of the race. Cian has only started back racing in the past few weeks so it's fantastic to see him already on the results sheets. Andre Engemann, yet again, displayed fine riding skills to take 3rd in the Stamullen Grand Prix (for the Safelink Shield) on Sunday. Getting away in an early breakaway, Andre came home just behind the winner Martin O'Loughlin (Dan Morrissey) and Stephen McNally (Orwell DTC).

GOREY 3 DAY - ANDRE IN TOP TEN (11th - 13th APRIL)

St. Tiernan's sole representative in the An Post Gorey 3 Day, Andre Engemann, rode very strongly throughout the race to clock up a 2nd place on Stage 3, 3rd on Stage 4. His riding secured 2nd overall in the points competition and a very impressive 9th overall in the general classification. With no teammates, Andre set off on Saturday in the 200 strong bunch and beat many of the largest teams in the country. A fine example of quality over quantity. All at the club would like to congratulate Andre for his successful weekend. Well Done!

INTER CLUB LEAGUE WIN FOR BRENDAN O'BRIEN 09.04.09

Brendan O'Brien took the victory in the first evening race of the 2009 Inter-Club League. On a course covering two laps of the small lakes at Manor Kilbride/Blessington, Brendan proved himself to be the strongest finisher of the combined Limit and Semi-Limit groups. He took the victory thanks to his great sprinting. We had another placing when Stefan Engemann took 4th. A fine introduction to the 2009 Inter Club Season from St. Tiernan's riders.

EASTER CLUB SPINS A SUCCESS

With domestic racing preoccupied with stage races over the Easter weekend, we had club spins on Friday, Saturday and Monday. Friday's spin was a tough route out towards Rathdrum in blustery conditions. This spin saw the welcome return of Jose to the group rides. The pace was high throughout as the lads got some useful training miles done.

On Saturday, we had a large group out and with no team cars needed at the stage races, both Brian Hayden and Andy Lakes were able to get out to join the lads on this mountainous spin. Setting off from Stepaside, the group made its way up Long Hill and over some tough mountain roads before emerging at Laragh. The route then went up Wicklow Gap and around the Blessington Lakes before deciding to head home. Rumours have it that Ray was not content with a hard morning and set off up the very tough Bohernabreena climb up to the Featherbeds to 'loosen up' his legs on the way home. If ever someone deserved a medal......

Monday's spin was a short hilly route, taking in roads around Powerscourt. A fine finale to a great collection of weekend spins. Well done to everyone who participated and added to the great atmosphere throughout.

LEISURE SECTION

Keep an eye on our Leisure Section for upcoming events and for news.

Stefan Engemann made his return to Bohermeen

Weekend Roundup 4th/5th April

With riders participating in events both at home and abroad, it was a very active weekend for the club. Brian Kilbride took on the cream of european riders when he set out on the Ronde van Vlaanderen in Belgium. Almost 19,000 struggled around the tough route and Brian finished triumphantly.

In the domestic racing scene, Balbriggan was the destination for our racers on saturday and Sunday. Andre Engemann was in the prizes yet again when he placed a fine 4th in Sunday's Jazzer Wherity Memorial.

With so many riders away, we still had enough bodies available to head out on the Saturday club spin. We were lucky with the weather and took on a tough, scenic route which included plenty of  short climbs as we sped around the Blessington Lakes.

Andre wins in Carlow - 29th March

Andre Engemann took a fine win in the Des Hanlon Memorial race in Carlow today (29th March). Over a very tough course, Andre finished ahead of two UCD riders to take victory in the 1 Lap Combined Race. 

Des Hanlon Memorial
Combined Race (1 Lap)
1 Andre Engemann (ST. Tiernan's)
2 Ciaran O' Conullain (UCD)
3 Fiach Ronan (UCD)

See Racing Section for more results.