Henry-Most Promising Rider!
The superb achievements of the young North Down cyclist, Stuart Henry, were recognized at the Northern Ireland Cycling Federation Awards Night on Saturday last when he was presented with the most Promising Cyclist of the 2007 season. In addition to winning All Ireland and Northern Ireland Championships, Henry won numerous under-age events and was selected to ride for Ireland on no less than seven occasions, including the European Youth Olympics.
However, Henry was not on his own at the event, which was held in the New Forge Country Club in Belfast. Fellow North Down riders Rachel Mitchell and William Barclay were also in attendance to pick-up medals. William, who has only recently returned to competitive cycling, demonstrated his ability by picking up a bronze medal in the Northern Ireland Hill climb Championship. Rachel kept the flag flying for the fair sex by winning All-Ireland medals at under fourteen level and by being short-listed for the Most Promising Rider award.
Women’s Testing Sessions
With the increased number of women joining the ranks of North Down Cycling Club, it is good to note that Cycling Ireland are proactive in developing this element of the sport. For example, they are offering a series of performance tests for female riders. Any lady who plans to race this year either in the National League or even internationally in 2008 should take advantage of these test sessions.
The up-coming tests will take place this Sunday, 10th February, at the Alsaa Centre in Dublin near the airport. The tests, which include a four minute power output analysis, will be carried out by National Track coach Brian Nugent.
Club Clothing
The influx of new members wishing to ride in North Down colours has brought with it a mixed blessing. On the one hand, it is so encouraging to see so many new faces, but on the other there is a need for a supplementary order of club clothing. With this in mind club treasurer, Mark Coyle is planning to put in an order within the next few weeks. Anyone who requires club clothing should, therefore, contact Mark immediately. As in the past, Mark will process the order and all those who are quick off the mark can be assured that they will receive their clothing at cost price!
Cycling Ulster Seminar
North Down Cycling Club will be represented at the Cycling Ulster seminar in Craigavon this weekend by club secretary Flo Millar, Terry Nicoletti and Noel Boyce. This promises to be a very important event with all aspects of cycling being covered, from event promotion to race preparation.
Youth Camp
Whilst the club administrators will be in Craigavon, youth rider Nathan McLeer will also be traveling to Armagh for the Youth Training Camp. Nathan has been training hard this winter and will hope to make an impression in his first year as an under-sixteen rider. Following this camp, a squad will be chosen to represent Ulster at a national training camp in Co. Mayo.