WEATHER SLOWS CYCLISTS’ PROGRESS With the 2010 racing season only three weeks away, most cyclists agree that it has been many years since their pre season preparation has been impaired to the extent experienced this winter. North Down Cycling Club’s racing squad have found scant consolation in the knowledge that, while the local roads have been treacherous at times, other parts of the country have been far worse. Long weekend training runs usually involve early starts and there have been a number of occasions when the first 20 miles have been covered at or below freezing point. These sorts of conditions create a dilemma for riders. If they go out on frosty or icy roads they run the risk of a fall and a broken collar bone can take weeks to recover from; if you don’t train for five weeks it can take 10 weeks to get back to your original fitness level and before you know it you have lost half a season. On the other hand if you play safe and stay indoors you will enter the season only partially fit and low in confidence, convinced that every other rider in the peloton is fitter and faster than you. |
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Saturday 9.00am this training run will leave the clubrooms at 9am sharp . The route is around the Peninsula, with a Tea stop in Portaferry, back to Ards and for those who still have too much energy they may continue over the Brae to Bangor, while the rest can go straight to Bangor via the dual carriageway. 9.15am This run follows the coast to Ballywalter then Greyabbey for a tea Stop in Hoops then back to Ards. then either straight back to Bangor or over the Bray then Bangor for those who like a harder finish.
Sunday training run will leave the clubrooms at 9.30am sharp. The 9.30am run will be more leisurely with a tea stop at Castle Espie and covers around 40 miles at a steady pace. During the week there are runs on Mondays and Thursdays that are ideal for the recreational cyclist. A group of veteran riders from local clubs depart from the car wash opposite the Bangor Fire Station at 9.45am. The run keeps mainly to the minor roads in the peninsula and includes a tea stop in Ballywalter. The total distance is about 45 miles and the pace is at a level suitable for the older athlete. All the runs are open to anyone who wishes to get involved in cycling, whether it be racing, touring or fun and fitness. Tuesday Evening stopped until May 2010 runs ideal for the recreational cyclist leave Groomsport Roundabout at 7pm. These rides are at a leisurley pace on quiet roads and cover 20 - 25 miles. The ride is open to everyone and we especially welcome non members and beginners.
Club Room Location
View North Down CC Club Rooms in a larger map |
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