5-up time trial - Hillsborough - Ballynahinch (map)
11 July 2013
Round 15 was a new format for Dromara Cycling Club with the first 5-up time trial in which 5 riders worked together as a team to complete the distance, in this case it was the 8 miles from Hillsborough to Ballynahinch, in the fastest time they could. This round was billed as a "fun" event with no points going towards the club league. Team selection was important and added to the fun of the occasion with teams being created based on geography which was reflected in some of the team names "Dromara Destroyers", "Annahilt Mafia", "East Coast Cruisers".
It was a great dry warm evening as the riders gathered up at the entrance to Governor's Gate, sorting out their teams and team names. There was no starting order but the gaps between teams was extended or shortened depending on the strength of the team compared to the team in front. The aim was to try to avoid the teams catching one another which would have meant 10 riders in one area at one time.
First away were Team Café Creme which included two guests from Shimna Wheelers. Next away were the East Coast Cruisers who started 2 minutes later. The third team away, just one minute behind team 2, were the Leisurely 5 otherwise known as Speed Dating which contained the only female rider Bernie Monaghan. The fourth team away were the Annahilt Mafia who, despite starting 3 minutes behind team 3, managed to catch and pass them before the finish in Ballynahinch. The 5th team away were the Dromara Destroyers starting 2 minutes behind team 4. They were followed 2 minutes later by the aptly named "Brown legs" team who have been enjoying the recent warm spell we have been experiencing. The final team was a 3 person with one adult and 2 youth "Matthew's team" who started 1 minute behind team "Brown legs".
The timekeeper had to race to the finish to get the times as the teams hit Ballynahinch. He did not get there in time to see team 1 or 2 finish but they were honest and provided the times needed.
The team to get all members across the line the fastest was team "Brown legs" with the "Annahilt Mafia" second and the "Dromara Destroyers" third. There was some confusion as to which rider would count in each team (the fourth or fifth rider) which would need to be clarified for next time.
Once all were finished it was time for team photos. Well done to all the riders. A great nights fun which the riders were keen to see happen again.
But next time another timekeeper will be needed !!!
Timekeepers: Martin Grimley.
Report and photographs: Martin Grimley
Leisurely 5 / aka Speed dating
Bernie Monaghan, Raymund Martin, Arthur Dodds (guest), Davy Young, Colin Roy
Dromara Destroyers
Dave Hawthorne, Brendy Doyle, Marty McAnulty, youth rider, Derek Hanna
Team Café Creme
Lavelle Grant (Shimna Wheelers), Mike Barton, Marty McVeigh (Shimna Wheelers), Michael Mullan, Tony Quinn
