Great weather conditions for the Slieve Croob Hill Climb Challenge

On Saturday 23 September 2023 Dromara Cycling Club hosted their 7th edition of the Slieve Croob Hill Climb Challenge. This is a 5 km climb from the bottom of Dree Hill to the top of Slieve Croob. Registration was in Peter Morgan’s Cottage with thanks to the Massford Project Association.

There were 31 riders registered with 28 actually taking on the challenge. Weather conditions were good, dry with light cloud cover. There was a head wind up the climb though and the temperature was cool at the top of the hill.

The first 3 km was the climb up the Slieve Croob car park. With permission from the landowner, the gate had been opened and the riders could then continue on the mountain path, past the grazing sheep, to the summit of the climb. At the top the riders could enjoy the spectacular panoramic views of County Down while trying to catch their breath.

This year we had a youth rider take part, Riley Smith (Banbridge CC) whose time was 5th overall. We also had two women compete this year with Caroline Daly (Velo Club Mourne) finishing faster than Anna McArdle. Fastest senior male was Nathan Mullan (Velo Café Magasin) with Stuart Millar (Ards CC) second and Neil McKenna (AHC Racing) third.

Thanks to the media support from The Belgian Project and to George McNeil.

The riders enjoyed some tea & coffee back at Peter Morgan’s cottage. Thanks to all the riders for coming along and to the volunteers who helped host the event.