4 mile hill climb - Clonveraghan (map)
12 September 2013
The 'big' hill climb took place on Thursday 12 September 2013 which was Round 24 of Dromara Cycling Club's league. This 4 mile hill climb starts just outside English's pub with riders pushing hard up the hill to the top of the Rib. There was a very low turn out for this event with just the 'magnificent' 7 taking part. The weather was dry at the start but with a cross wind. The weather at the top, which didn't really encourage the riders, was not the same with the grey cloud sitting over the top of the Rib.
Ronnie got the riders lined up with Paul Gick heading off first, followed by Zak Hanna, Tony Quinn, Conor Rice, Gary Gibson, John Shanks and finally Barry Kellett. Martin heading up the hill with his kids to get the finish time.
At the top of the hill the wind was very strong over the Rib to ensure the riders didn't go too far past the finish line. In the past the riders who had finished were able to enjoy the great views of County Down but tonight it was a case of crossing the line, turning round, getting the warm cloths on and then heading back down the hill. Martin's kids were doing their best to motivate the riders with cow bells and the ubiquous 'up up up's' on the loud hailer.
Fastest on the night was mountain man Tony in a time of 16 minutes 38 seconds. Barry was disappointed to finish 34 seconds off Tony's pace. Zak had a great ride to finish in 17:41. Conor, Gary and John all finished in the 19 minute zone with Paul disappointed in his time which was slower than his time last year.
Well done to all the riders, a tough climb and a rough night. Next week is the final club league event, a short hill climb up Begney Hill in Dromara.
Timekeepers: Ronnie Smyth and Martin
Report & photos: Martin Grimley
