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“It is all for the children”
says shattered Bann Wheelers cyclist.
Into the West 65mile Sportive Cycle Challenge
On Sunday 2nd November say over 50 brave riders set off from Fr. Gallagher’s grounds St. Mary’s GAA sports (CLG Naomh Mhuire Leacht Mhanuis.) at Tamnaherin. The event was run in support of the Northern Ireland Cancer Fund for Children and £1750 to date was raised.
Its course was set in the picturesque Sperrin Mountains and climbs like Barnes Gap, Sawel Mountain, Banagher Glen and Loughamore Forest were crossed. With weather conditions favourable the pace at the start was brisk over the early hills.
Bann Wheelers CC was well represented and its members did the club proud. Special mention has to go to riders like Sam Greer who literally rode himself to a standstill, drawing comment from assistant event organiser and ex professional cyclist Joe Barr, that Sam’s efforts epitomised cycling and the commitment and bravery of its riders.
Bann Wheelers riders in attendance were from L to R
Gary Turner, John Madden, Sharman Crawford, Nigel Kerr, Sean Kealey, Russell Callaghan, Gary Kendall, Nigel Quigley, Steven McAllister, Routing Crew Bann Wheelers member Oliver Laverty and Robert Kennedy. (Missing from photo at the time were Sam Greer and Colm Mcllfatrick)
All the riders were presented with a t shirt and certificate for completing the event.
The first riders home were John Madden and Gary Turner who as well as supporting the event used it as a good training run.
Clubs from both north and south of the border took the time to travel and show their support, but some of the local clubs failed to attend and missed out in this very worthy charity event.
The Bann Wheelers Cycling Club Chairman Robert Downes would like to thank the work done by Mr and Mrs Joe Barr, the community of Tamnaherin who were on the ground offering refreshment and sustenance to all who attended. The Red Cross, the motor cycle out riders the “Feed Station” personnel the support vehicles and anyone else you gave freely of their time.
Colm McIlfatrick at the feed station in Cranagh
Bann Wheelers Club Secretary Maurice McAllister said that the “Into the West” cycle challenge was going to be an annual event and looked forward to along with everyone else again being involved.
Other BANN WHEELERS News,
Sunday club runs will leave the Boulevard and 2 groups will depart at 9.30am sharp as agreed at the last club meeting.
Robert Kennedy will lead the 2nd group of riders who wish to travel at a more comfortable and leisurely pace.
Tickets for the “Club Diner and Prize Distribution” on Sat 15th November are available from club Treasurer Robert Kennedy, contact number 07929207302. Everyone is very welcome to attend.
Extra Training Mid Week “Night Time” mountain bike rides contact Nigel Quigley on 07957555507
Saturdays Triangle Run with Maurice McAllister, leaving the Town Hall at 10.15.pm, all abilities welcome. Pace is of the slowest rider.
Attempts to secure a Cycling Ulster representative to the next club meeting are ongoing so members interested, see press for further developments.
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