Innisfree Wheelers

Innisfree Wheelers were very well represented again this year in the Polka Dot Challenge. The following club members made the journey to Ballinrobe to compete in this challenge:

Brendan Brogan, Eddie Ryan, Michael Heylin, Michael Mulvaney, Rosie McLaren, John Delorey, Pam Benson, Carmel Conlon, Fintan Conlon and Lyndsey Browne

This unique event proved to be an irresistible temptation for participating club riders.

Fintan Conlon and Lynsey Browne took in the 80km route (3 hills) and were inseparable. Carmel Conlon also followed this course. Well done!

The two Michaels - Heylin and Mulvanney went off and stayed with the large bunch of 60 riders on the 120km (9 hills) spin.The following riders(Brendan Brogan, Eddie(Rocket)Ryan,Rosie McLaren, Pam Benson and John Delorey)also took the 120km trip. They stayed together as a group and cajoled each other along the way. This also ensured that they did not get lost! 'You know what I mean?'

This spectacularly scenic event was favoured by brilliant sunshine, blue skies and the riders were fanned by a gentle cooling breeze. The gods were definitely on their side! It lasted approximately 6 hours and was both physically and mentally demanding. There were numerous 'smaller' climbs. The 3 major climbs were more akin to 'The Tour de France'! The descents along narrow rugged country roads were very testing and not for the faint-hearted. Those who were first up to the summits had time to stop and observe the heavenly scenery.

The Ballinrobe club (Lakeland Wheelers) are to be congratulated for superbly organising 3 formidable courses. To partake in and finish such a long mountainous event gave great personal pride and satisfaction to each rider. Special congratulations go to John Delorey on crossing the finish line.