Pleasure Team Recruits

Despite 5 regulars ( Eddie, Dermot, Dwyer, Tony and Martin ) missing in action on Saturday the Pleasure Team still had a record number out; this included 3 new recruits Gary, Barry and Alan – all from the Killyman area and 4 occasional pleasure cyclists, Sheena, Gareth, Sean and Paul. With only a small group of the regulars out I was a bit concerned at how well the mixed group would work together. I need not have worried, within a mile the group was working together in a well ordered disciplined group and the new recruits were performing like seasoned cyclists.

This week’s route took us through Kingsisland to Tamnamore, then through Annaghmore and on to Ballyhagen before stopping for a break in Loughgall. After sitting in a glorious suntrap at the shop front we mounted up again and rode into a stiff breeze to Blackwatertown , the Moy and home. By the time we reached home the new recruits were just starting to suffer but were all able to dig deep and keep up the pace – they have a lot to be proud off.

Anyone thinking of taking up cycling should to do so now at this time of the year and not put it off until the summer. This is the time of year for building your base fitness so that you are ready for the summer runs. Too many people make the mistake of trying to join in during the summer months when the runs are generally longer, faster and tougher; they quickly become disillusioned and soon give up. So, my advice is, if you are thinking of getting involved in cycling do it now.

G Scott