21 October 2008

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Ciaran Big Wheel in Cycling

At last week’s North Down AGM, local architect Ciaran Andrews became the ‘big wheel’ in local cycling, taking on the mammoth task of Honoury General Secretary and Chairman. However, as an experienced committee man Ciaran clearly has the expertise and the acumen to carry off the role. He takes over the position of secretary from Flo Millar, who will remain as registrar.


There was also a big change in the key position of treasurer. Mark Coyle has carried this responsibility for more years than he cares to remember and he expressed a wish last year to hand over the reins in 2008. Thankfully local businessman, Myles Geddis has agreed to take on the responsibilities.

Harry Adams, who was elected President, paid tribute to the unstinting service that both Mark and Flo had given to the club. He was particularly pleased that both had agreed to continue to work for the benefit of the club in whatever way they could.

In the summary of the events throughout the year, particular appreciation was expressed for the club’s sponsors, Aquatech and the Bokhara Restaurant. Note was made of the excellent nights which Flo had organised throughout the year in the Bokhara and it was hoped that these would again be a must in the club’s social calendar.

The performance of riders such as Neil McKenna (Northern Ireland Hillclimb Champion) and Ricky Blayney and Sam Craig (Trans-Rockie Challenge) were also noted, as were the club’s many promotions – most noteworthy being the Coastal Challenge. All-in-all it was agreed that 2007-8 had been an extremely successful year for the North Down Club.

Turbo Sessions

The turbo sessions continue this Wednesday night in the refurbished clubrooms. This is an excellent way of keeping fit during the winter and keeping the conditioning at a high level. It is great to have the advice from the club’s own sports scientist, Darren McWilliams and no doubt the pointers he gave on Wednesday night last will be of great benefit for everyone. So if you’re interested in joining with others in these sessions, all you need is a bike and a turbo – you’ll be made very welcome.

Maintenance Classes

The maintenance classes continue this Friday night in the clubrooms at 7.30 pm. This week the focus will be on headsets and bottom brackets. These sessions have proved invaluable, especially for those who are new to the sport. We are indebted to Declan McMackin and Harry Adams for giving of their expertise and for Noel Boyce who has planned the whole winter programme.

Recreational Cycles

The Monday and Thursday morning cycles continue, irrespective of the weather. They leave the Newtownards Road at 9.45. The Saturday morning runs leave the clubrooms at 9am sharp for Portaferry, 9.05 for Ballyhalbert and 9.10 for Ballywalter. It has been noted that these times have not always been strictly adhered to during the summer months, but with the winter temperatures now prevalent riders have requested that the times are rigorously kept so that no one has to wait for an undue period in the cold.

Date for your Diary

Due to the numbers who requested an opportunity to show their particular ‘Strictly Come Dancing’ moves, the annual prize presentation will be held in the Pickie Bowling Club this year. This will be a relaxed, informal affair which will give members an opportunity to bring their partners to a Cycling Club function. The event will be held on Saturday 29th November and everyone is very welcome. Indeed at a cost of £7, event organiser Eric Blayney is hoping that individual club members will purchase multiple tickets and bring all their family and friends. If you intend going to this function, please get in touch with Eric or any club member immediately.

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