Members took to the road in force over the bank holiday weekend. Mick O'Leary and Declan Brady led a group south on Saturday morning. The cycle commenced in Watergrasshill with members joining the peloton in Glanmire and Bishopstown. The climb over Liberty Hill got rid of any cobwebs and quick progress was made to Innishannon. Here, the group turned south and traveled along the banks of the river Bandon passing through Kilmacsimon Quay, Balinadee and Garretstown before taking in the stunning views around the Old Head of Kinsale. A well earned coffee stop was made in Kinsale before returning via the Rising Sun and Ballinhassig. A close encounter with a van in Glanmire raised pulses briefly. otherwise, all reports were that members thoroughly enjoyed the spin.
A small turnout for the Sunday cycle was probably due to some threatening rain clouds. A tough route headed for Glenville and onto Beennaskehy where a left turn was taken for Bottlehill. Having crested the climb, fast progress was made through Sixmilewater and onto Whitechurch. After a quick coffee stop, the group headed for Kilcully and back to Watergrasshill via Upper Glanmire. Bodies were tired but dry on return. Donal Scannell appeared to be going poor all day until he let it slip that he was saving his legs for the TT in Kilbennehy on Wednesday evening. A big result is now expected.
This coming weekend a number of members are taking part in the Blackwater Triathlon on August 12th @ 2.30pm. This event is organised by our good friends in Blackwater Triathlon Club. OTHCC members will be assisting with marshaling on the day. Anyone in the Fermoy area is encouraged to come along and support the athletes.
A notable increase in kilometers by some members is a sure sign the end of summer sportives are fast approaching. First up is the Sean Kelly Tour in Waterford on the 20th August. A big contingent from the club are heading to Deccies Rebel Tour in Glengarriff on the 9th September.
Finally, a mention to our friends in Kilworth Cycling Club who hold their annual sportive on Sunday August 13th. There are two routes, 110km & 60km. This year the Sportive is being held in aid of Finding a Cure for Matthew. Matthew was diagnosed with MPS2 (Hunters syndrome) in 2015 at the age of 13 months. To date, there is no cure. We are hoping that funds raised will contribute to raising awareness and funds for Matthews hospital expenses and to help find a cure.