Spa Lake (map)
23 June 2011
Round 13 of Dromara Cycling Club's Thursday night league was almost going to be unlucky '13' as torrential rain had affected large areas of Northern Ireland and organisers had felt that this evening was most likely to be cancelled. Driving down to Spa Lake through large puddles of water it was encouraging to meet Dromara riders cycling to the meeting point. Once we arrived at the lake the weather had improved and the sun started to shin through the grey clouds. There was already a large gathering at 6:30 pm. In total 28 riders had attended, including 2 guests from other clubs and were signed on and ready to start just after 7 pm.
First away was Paul Gick with Massimo Manganaro setting off one minute later. The riders were all given one minute gaps and they set off for the 5 mile route to Seaforde. This course is deceiving with its rolling hills making the outbound route easier than the return leg. The evening stayed dry with only a light breeze.
Fastest rider was Ronnie Smyth in a time of 24 minutes and 38 seconds. Gavin Magowan was just 20 seconds slower with Marcus Magowan third and Chris Magowan 4th. Barry Kellett was fifth fastest just 2 seconds faster than Philip Boyle and Michael Cassidy who both finished on 26m 37s.
Comparing each of the riders' times tonight with their average over the same distance we can calculate who has made the most improvement. Finishing 1½ minutes faster than his average was Paul Jess who takes the maximum 40 points for this round. Next best improver was Ted McKibbin who was 57 seconds faster than his average time. Mary Hunter's time was checked against her 2010 average and showed how she has improved in the off-season finishing 53 seconds faster than her average. Tommy Downey improved by 48 seconds with Michael Cassidy improving by 41 seconds and Barry Kellett by 31 seconds.
Well done to all riders and a big thanks to the timekeepers and marshals. Round 14 will be a club road race at Donaghcloney next Thursday (30 June 2011).
Timekeepers: Nigel Sudlow & Stephen Phillips
Timekeepers Assistant: Jonathan McBride & Laurene Phillips
Marshals: David Chambers, Neill Currie, Conor Rice
Report and photos: Martin Grimley
