NCC MEMBERSHIP

Summer 2013
Welcome to the third Summer edition of NCCs MEMBERSHIP NEWS. This Newsletter will attempt to keep the growing club membership informed and updated with all thats happening in Naas Cycling Club. With over one hundred and fifty members the club is expanding rapidly and communication between members has never been more important. We already have an excellent web site and the Club Facebook page is also very active. Membership News is an extension to that and will be emailed on a quarterly or seasonal basis to all members who have supplied an email address to the club secretary. It will also be available on the main web site to view and download. If you have any suggestions for content or pictures that you think might be of interest to other club members please email Trish McGuane, NCC PRO at: pronaascc@gmail.com

NEWS
CHAIRMANS COMMENT
Now that we are enjoying the benefits of those wet winter and spring days of cycling through wind and gales, we are hopefully all now fitter and ready for a full summer programme of cycling. NCC is alive and well, our groups are providing spins, races, sportifs and leisure cycling for all our members who are ranging in age from 14 to ??? I wish to express my appreciation to the captains and leaders of the various groups who lead and coordinate these events and activities. We have three events coming up, The Wicklow Peaks Cycling Challenge on Sun 30th June, the NCC Picnic Spin on Sun 21st July and the Tour of Kildare on Sun 11th August. These are an ideal opportunity for all our members to support and participate in the work of your committee and to contribute to the ongoing success of the club. I look forward to meeting many of those members who I havent yet had the opportunity to meet. I also wish to thank those members who attended the recent egm/open meeting and contributed to the discussion, it is always good to exchange ideas. I also wish to thank all who assisted in the recent Rs weekend, our large turnout of volunteers was noted by Cycling Ireland and other local representative bodies. KEEP SPINNING, SMILING AND WEAR THE CLUB COLOURS WITH PRIDE. 25 YEARS AND STILL SPINNING... WE ARE DOING IT RIGHT. Hugh Durnin

PRO/SOCIAL UPDATE
Great time for cycling in the wonderful weather we are currently having. Lovely to see so many Naas CC jerseys when I get out cycling. Speaking of jerseys and club stuff , I am really looking forward to the 25th Anniversary Jersey, our 25th Anniversary buff (for those that know what this is and I didnt, it is a very nice tubular neck scarf worn mostly in cooler weather), lads dont worry, we wont ask you to wear a scarf, I am just stuck for words to describe it! We also have a very nice polo shirt suitable for cycling related events. Hopefully, fingers crossed we will have these before the Wicklow Peaks on 30th June. Many thanks to Pat Spillane and Lance for all the hard work in bringing this together. Speaking of Wicklow Peaks, preparations are well under way at this stage for this major event in our cycling calendar. Can I appeal again to members to please support Colm Alley in his request for members for road marshalling? For myself can I appeal to you for any food stuffs/baking/anything that we can use to make this event as enjoyable as possible for everyone? Our ultimate aim is to raise enough money (bottom line figure) for our proposed sensory room for the Saplings new school in Kill. I went to see the school a few weeks ago and believe me if you had seen it, you would be as determined as me to make this happen. We will have a great day, please God everyone will arrive back safely, to food in the Town Hall afterwards and a bit of fun with friends. Our initial plans for a BBQ in the Friary Road Car Park had to be scrapped due to insurance concerns around food storage/distribution and overall safety. The 25th celebrations are now moved to our Christmas Party in Nov/Dec next. Lets not think of winter just yet. We are organising a family fun day in Emo in July. As cyclists I guess we are always conscious of heading off on a Sunday morning and leaving families behind. Well on this Sunday in July, we will cycle to Emo, our families will drive down for a picnic. We will have food for everyone so if you want to come down and family are away or whatever, no worries, you will still get fed. We are working to make our club inclusive. So for now put this date in your diary, Sunday 21st July - Emo NCC family fun day for everyone. Tour of Kildare again great work being done by our committee in preparation for this. Again mark Sunday 11th August in your diaries for the Martin Earley Tour of Kildare. Lots more on this later. Thats all for now, safe and happy cycling to everyone. Just a reminder that when you are out cycling and wearing the club jersey, you are representing the club. Best behaviour at all times, respect the jersey and also ensure that everyone in our club is equally respected and valued. (Feel free to contact me if you can assist on the 30th June on pronaascc@gmail.com or 086 192 5292.
Trish McGuane

Dont ever question the value of volunteers. Noahs Ark was built by volunteers; the Titanic was built by professionals.
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LADIES GROUP UPDATE

Ardamine the view was spectacular despite the wind and rain. It wasnt long until the house began to fill up. Warm embraces were made with familiar faces along with some introductions. The chat and laughter continued into the early hours of the morning. The men would have been impressed with discussions around gears, cassettes, oil, chains, muscle balm and when it comes to bike gear who knows fashion better than women! It was absolutely glorious to wake up to the sound of waves and the sun high in the sky with a gentle breeze perfect cycling conditions! We took on the Wexford lumps with enthusiasm and zeal. Multitasking was at its finest, with superb group cycling etiquette along with comparison of calf definition, with a clear winner in the group! There were plenty of smiling faces Saturday afternoon after a lovely 100km spin and in particular one proud 100km first timer. At this stage no matter how hard you tried you couldnt annoy us!! All that pedalling worked up quite an appetite. The spread of food would have fed an army. The craic, banter and laughs over dinner were mighty and just like the gentlemen, for some, opening the top button was necessary! Emily Anne gave us an educational demonstration on bike management and control when turning a corner on decent. This explanation took place in the middle of the doorway leading into the kitchen. This was the perfect location as this practise was thoroughly understood in this female setting we all now know how to decend both safely and efficiently, despite being told on numerous occasions by husbands, boyfriends and pro cyclists!!! Well done Emily Anne! Maeves demonstration was equally as important. With military background and a previous statement of Id rather strip a rifle, I was all eyes and ears for my next lesson how to eat a teacake correctly! I have to admit, I hadnt lived until I saw this you must remove the foil, then crack the teacake off your forehead before proceeding to eat the chocolate, savouring the mallow for last. Of course there is photographic evidence to support this. You are always guaranteed to learn something new on these cycle trips. Not putting your full glass of wine in the door of the fridge was another valuable lesson learned. The night continued with sing song entertainment (obviously after an abundance of wine) however silence fell when Movana shared her wonderful voice. The silence equally diminished with the statement the night is but a pup!!! Barry was the backbone of the weekend, on stand by for any emergency and when among ten women, Barry was often expected to perform miracles beyond his call of duty. The weekend was an absolute success, thoroughly enjoyed by all. This includes Frodo, the dog, who according to more photographic confirmation, had one too many on Friday night. This did not affect his hurdle performance the following day. On that note, whether you are a racer, an avid cyclist or just enjoy a leisurely cycle this group caters for all in a friendly, good fun environment. With a mixture of hill climbing, laughter, good food, drinks, lovely company and atmosphere the ladies really know how to have a good time!!! Maeve Quigley

A GROUP UPDATE
I was going to write about what we got up to when we cycled. Where did we go? What exciting events unfolded over the weeks since the last newsletter? What plans do we have for the future? Instead I wrote about this. Im going too fast downhill. I can see the end of the footpath approaching fast, the tricycle only has a front brake so I pull it hard, too hard. The bike stops suddenly although I continue on, my hands on the bars acting as a pivot. I feel sick as I am upside down, then suddenly everything stops as I land on my feet. At the age of three I knew that cycling was for me. Im lucky. equals some distance. Im now with others who found the 4th Cat climb less than easy. I meet up with two of my friends at the first foodstop. Smiles and familiar wheels for a while rudely interrupted by Hourquette dAncizan, Col dAspin and Col du Tourmalet. Friends to meet me at the finish. Im lucky. Its going to be a nice weekend. There were croissants in the oven and the smell of fresh coffee filled my senses. The sun was out as promised, the kids were up and about at full volume. There is still some breakfast left for my wife as she is greeted by the familiar sound of clicking cleats. Im off to Cahills bike shop for a Saturday spin with the NCC Youths. They are eager and refreshing company. The trip through Blessington and Ballymore Eustace passes in a flash. A heady cocktail of raw enthusiasm and bravado. Im lucky.

I wake up in the morning, I can hear the rain dancing on the windows. Turning to look at the alarm clock which plays KFM, nothing too offensive at that hour in the morning, it is time to rise and get breakfast on the go. Bottles made up, both rain covers found for the shoes and a rain jacket. No excuses then, time for the off and to see who else believes that someone might turn up at the Court House. It could be any number but today there are nine of us, finding our way down country roads to a warm coffee. We have ventured down to Athy with the weather clearing enough to allow us notice the wind. After a brief chat on our return to the Court House we all go our separate ways. Im lucky. Today it is warm, the ride starts from just down the road. I know that while I set off with many I still call friend and club mate, I will not be in their lofty company for long. Setting off we are cruising the roads at high speed getting sucked along in a big group. Pedal? If I must! Little effort

Im a Naas Cycling Club cyclist. I meet up with other similar cyclists most weekends. We enjoy the routes, the pace, the company and the chat most of the time and Id like to thank every rider who has ridden with the group throughout the year so far. Also, Id like to encourage all club members to experience all aspects of cycling within our club. We have a great club which contains lots of different cycling interests, all of which can be most rewarding.

So NCC cyclists I ask you, do you feel lucky? Well do you? Graham Custerson

B GROUP UPDATE
At the moment we have about ten core members in our group with others joining us from time to time on our Sunday Spin. The routes have been varied and the spins have gone well with everyone finishing together and there has been a good social aspect to the group with enjoyable coffee stops. This year we have tried something a little different with our training concentrating mainly on intensive hilly routes for the last month to prepare us for the Wicklow Peaks.

CLIMBING GRAPHS

After the Wicklow Peaks we intend to have a few introductory spins at a slower pace to allow anybody who feels like moving up to the B group to settle in. All who are interested are welcome to come along and nobody will be left behind.
Tony Gavin

When man invented the bicycle he reached the peak of his attainments. Here was a machine of precision and balance for the convenience of man. And (unlike subsequent inventions for mans convenience) the more he used it, the fitter his body became. Here, for once, was a product of mans brain that was entirely beneficial to those who used it, and of no harm or irritation to others. Progress should have stopped when man invented the bicycle. ~ Elizabeth West
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C GROUP UPDATE
Well we are in the throws of the summer now, although sometimes its difficult to see it. But the C Group is thriving now. All the preparation work in the early part of the Spring is really paying off now. We have gradually increased our distances whilst not necessarily increasing our speed. Our gradual hill work has meant we now take on the Sally Gap and Wicklow Gap with impunity and the lakes are a walk in the park. Our initiative at the end of winter to include a shorter route for new and returning riders, has certainly paid dividends. As we have gradually brought on riders who would, most likely have experienced difficulty in returning to full C Group pace. Changing the start time to 9am has been good for peoples time management on Sunday mornings. Although Im not sure if it has gelled the club into a better unit. I think we should make better efforts to integrate the members into a properly unified club. This should now be a priority of the committee, to find methods of breaking this apparent divide. C Group has always been, and continues to be a close knit, and friendly unit. Our spins on Sundays have a huge emphasis on kinsmanship and camaraderie. We have fun on the road and we have the personnel in the group to ensure no one gets left behind or suffers unduly on the spin. Mick Brosnan does this job with aplomb and on the days he is off with the grand kids, we can see the difference. Fortunately, we have members who are willing and very able to take on this role if required and people accept this task willingly, when asked. Our evening rides I.e. the Monday and Wednesday evening short wind down, (or is it wind up?) rides have seen a fall off in recent weeks. Possibly due to more family commitments over the summer. However, we are still continuing these and adding others as necessary. Thank you to all the members who make Sunday spins the joy they are and we look forward to the various sportives coming up into the summer. Enjoy your summer and keep cycling safely. John Boyle

Theres an old cycling adage: Dont walk if you can stand, dont stand if you can sit and dont sit if you can lay down. It doesnt mention housework but I think its probably out of the question!!
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2013 WICKLOW 200

After completing the Wicklow 100k in 2012 myself and Karen decided that 2013 was going to be the year of the 200k route. Training began last February and was going great but unfortunately I was ill for the whole month of May and with a couple of stays needed in hospital I decided to favour the side of caution and do the 100k route and Karen was to press ahead with the 200k route. With the weather looking hot for the day we decided to roll out at 7am and get in the distance before the midday sun peaked. It started with a nicely paced speed until the first climb of the day at Kilmancanogue. After 4k of a testing climb it was another good pace until we both reached Laragh. It was at this point we waved and wished each other the best of luck for the day ahead. I made good speed to the only food stop on the 100k route at Rathdrum. While I was tucking into the refreshments Karen was never far from my mind because at this stage she would be making her way up the gruelling Wicklow Gap. Approaching the Wicklow Gap Karen picked up a slow puncture which made the final approach to the car park that much harder. Gladly there was a bike mechanic at the car park and after a quick repair Karen was on her way. At approx. 11am Karen arrived at her first food stop in Baltinglass, she quickly took on some liquids and food and was on her way again. At Hacketstown Karens chain came off and again at Knockananna, luckily a bike mechanic that was taking part in the event stopped and made a quick repair. While all this was happening I had finished the climb at Redcross and was tackling the small but frequent steep climbs through to Glenealy. At Ashford I had a puncture and after a quick tube change I was on my way. For Karen the dreaded Slieve Mann and Shay Elliot were looming. A lot of training time was spent on these climbs by Karen so no way was she going to be beaten by them. So she dug in and steadily grinded her way up the SM and in doing so took great satisfaction passing those who had dismounted their bikes. At the water stop at the top of SM Karen took on fluids and used the water stop as most people did as a reason to stop for a quick breath. It was then onto the dreaded SE, at this stage I was enjoying a shower back at the finish. Again she steadily grinded her way up the SE and was then happy to see the toughest climbs of the day behind her. With heavy and tiring legs she made her way to the food stop in Rathdrum and then onto the climb at Redcross and the hills through to Glenealy. On seeing the sign 30k remaining this gave Karen a moral boost and she speedily made her way through Ashford, Newcastle and Kilcoole. At this point I was waiting at the finish line for Karen, and sure enough and in customary fashion as seen in the photo Karen crossed the line with a big smile and very proud of herself as was I with her fantastic achievement for the day. Jason 100k : 3hrs39mins Karen 200k : 9hrs16mins
Jason Ebbs

GALWAY CYCLE - MARCH 13

As graduates of NUI Maynooth, Trish McGuane and I set ourselves the early season challenge of doing the Maynooth to Galway Cycle last March for the Jack and Jill Childrens Foundation. I remember the annual charity cycle fondly from my college days though only as a collector. Back then it was a small affair of only 20 cyclists so I was surprised to see almost 100 cyclists at the first mandatory training spin. The efficiency and fitness of the marshals had to be admired as they whipped (not literally) 243 cyclists into shape and made the cycle to Galway and back become a reality.

The only flaw in an otherwise amazingly managed weekend was that someone forgot to arrange the weather. Friday brought torrential rain of biblical proportion where we really needed wet suits and canoes rather than lycra and bikes but we made it to Eyre Square, saturated and elated in equal measure. The forecast for the return journey was even worse with a block headwind for all 200km. A little bit of perspective was offered on Saturday night however, when we heard from a Jack and Jill father and their childs battle. To complain about a headwind seemed trite in comparison and Ive no doubt his story helped to power many cyclists journey home. In total we raised over 120,000 and cycled with many admirable people, none less so than Trish; incredibly tough but always a lady and one of only eleven women to cycle the entire journey. Kudos! Our Jason Ebbs also rode as an outrider and was always on hand with a smile or word of encouragement. Many seasoned Galway Cycle riders say that this was the hardest cycle in recent times so I feel justifiably proud of our achievement. Thanks to those who sponsored our efforts and turned out to welcome us home much appreciated. Emily-Anne Doyle

SECRETARY UPDATE
MEMBERSHIP: Almost half way through the year and we still have new members joining the club. It may be a slow trickle but we now have a total of 155 members which shows as a club we must be doing something right. With so many members it is now a bit harder to keep track of everyone so if for some reason you change your phone number or e-mail address or any other personal details, it is important that you notify me so I can continue to send you this club news letter, meeting information and details of clothing orders etc. You should also update your profile on Cycling Ireland. Again I would encourage those of you without e-mail to sign up as it makes it easier for me to contact you and ensure you dont miss out. CLUB GEAR: So far this year we have already taken two deliveries of gear and this kit has all been distributed to our members. On both occasions I ordered some extra but once again I find I only have a couple of garments left. Our winter order will be going in at the end of June so if you want anything be sure to respond in timely fashion when you receive notification. Remember for these orders I need payment at time of ordering. I am considering expanding the range of gear we offer our members and depending on interest we may start to order both leg and arm warmers, gloves (winter and fingerless) and overshoes. All of these items will have the club logo and colours and will be from Giordana. Those of you who were at the open meeting will have seen some samples. I am also looking at the possibility of a casual/track jacket (see bottom pic) which could have the club crest embroidered and I will have a sample available for all to see very shortly. This kind of track jacket would be suitable to be worn before or after a race or sportive (or around the house while doing the hoovering - Ed.). If there is anything else that you feel would be useful or that you think we should include in our gear order let me know and I will investigate. The polo shirts with the 25th Anniversary Logo have turned out very well and the embroidered crest looks great, so thanks to Lance for his good work. The Spin 11 Limited Edition 25th Anniversary Jerseys are expected to be ready in or around the 24-26th June and we also hope to have the Limited Edition 25th Anniversary Neck Buffs available that week too. When I have everything delivered I will notify everyone who ordered of the collection details and try and get it all out to you as soon as possible. Thanks to everyone for their co-operation throughout the year and I look forward to your continued support and patience. Pat Spillane

SPRINGTIME IN NORTHERN MALLORCA - MARCH 13

NCC members Graham Custerson, Cathal Murray, John Shannon, James Mooney and Lance Connolly returned from a weeks cycling at the end of March in Puerto Pollensa, Northern Mallorca. Graham wrote the following account of the trip.
Saturday March 23rd - a cold day for sure, especially at 6am outside the departure terminal at Dublin Airport. As the afternoon came and went we had managed to determine a number of facts. One slice of Ryanair Pizza was enough for any man, the number of rows that the smell of vomit could travel was less than 10. We five considered ourselves lucky on a number of fronts as we reached for our sunglasses on our exit from Palma Airport. Bad weather limited our ability to test out our reassembled bikes post flight on the day of our arrival, this was mainly due to the havoc the weather was causing with postponed and delayed flights from the UK with the knock on effect of our transfer being delayed. Apparently the following week was also going to be rather cold in the Emerald Isle! After a short stroll to familiarise ourselves with the local surroundings we settled down to dinner and retired to our rooms when we noticed that the heating had kicked in which was hardly necessary for anyone arriving from Irish climes. A sign of things to come? Sunday March 24th - a hearty breakfast would surely set us up for the day ahead. 4 groups to choose from. The real learning started here, everyone was going flat, 60, 80 or 100 miles they said, a quick calculation and a nudge from returning riders allowed us to plump for an appropriate group. Burgers was the touring option (myself, James and Lance) with our two racers (Cathal and John) heading out with Stuart Hall. The pace of both groups was steady and well controlled. Lunch was at 60km in the town of Felanitx. A leisurely stop in the town square was accompanied by Peruvian Pipes and sunshine aiding digestion of baguettes and coffee perfectly. Lance wondered if the A Group were enjoying their coffee stop in baltic Baltinglass quite so much! Some of our new friends confirmed the ride distance as 80 miles, we were halfway and feeling good. Terrific scenery distracted us as we weaved our way through country roads, which thankfully proved to be just wide enough to allow cars pass. There must have been an adverse movement in the exchange rate as at 120km it was not the hotel which greeted us but a rather beautiful field of Artichokes some distance away. Our first ride turned out to be 141.5km, a baptism of fire and it was chapeau to James for completing the longest ride of his cycling career to date tomorrow was to be his second longest! Monday March 25th - time was to be at a premium this morning. Early rising was less prominent (and forbidden in some rooms!) with breakfast being a much more civilised affair. Definitely a day for the sun cream, outside the hotel the days routes were announced with Mallorcan towns ringing in our ears. Our eyes scanned for familiar faces as yesterdays group leader was out of action for the day. A trip to the Orient was in the offing with Ivan. It sounded exotic, a little more so than was in store for Cathal and John who were heading for the climbs of Little Soller and the Puig Mayor, or as its affectionately called The Pig, a 5km climb out of Soller followed by a 15km climb up to the aqueduct. Our climb out of the coffee stop in Bunyola, The Orient, is a pleasant climb with trees on the lower slopes leading to a false peak before the panorama widened out revealing sun drenched slopes and full gas to the meeting point! A point worth noting is that James proved that it is possible to drink a litre of coke, a coffee and eat three huge pastries prior to embarking on this climb. Cathal and John had their lunch in the picturesque square at Soller which is one of the better coffee stop locations on the Island. The Pig was suitably dispatched by both of our Cats. Meeting up at the hotel post ride we all agreed that recovery should be top of the agenda and post dinner we headed to OHaras for refreshments. Only later did we learn that Cathal and John were also in the habit of calling into Tullos on the sea front for brief post ride re hydration before cycling back to the hotel. These small details are what separate the dedicated racer from your average leisure rider! Tuesday March 26th - after some sketchy group riding and accidents in 4 out of 5 groups the previous day our motivational morning speech from Stuart Hall in a deep Brummy accent (which I interpreted and translated for the lads) included a forceful

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reminder that we were on a Cycling Camp, not a Racing Camp. In fairness the groups were very large (up to 40 at times) and subsequently there are bound to be a lot of incidents on the road. Flat spins were announced to audible sighs from near and far and Stuart also said that from tomorrow a brand new notice board was to be installed in the hotel foyer where clear details of the next days group activity would be there for all to see well in advance. I think Lance may have dreamed that last bit as it never happened and I personally think he has an unhealthy obsession with notice boards! The two groups we chose were to meet in Petra for lunch prior to heading back to Pollensa. The first 25km were pretty undulating and tough on our tired legs. A couple of punctures provided welcome relief although the pace picked up as we appeared to be in a rush to make Petra for our coffee stop. A nice square and acceptable food although possibly the worst coffee we had all week. On being given a 5 minute warning to mount up our compatriots arrived having cycled 80km in comparison to our 50km, and slipped quickly into our pre-warmed seats. Thoughts wandered in the afternoon as panoramas were punctured by hill top villages and some excellent wheels to follow. Another puncture close to home allowed some of us to latch on to faster wheels as the Standard Only No Compact Chain Rings group whistled by. Dinner was our meeting point again as we all looked forward to International Footie Night in Mombasa Bar. Free wifi, good music and a friendly host somewhat lessened the disappointment of that criminally late equaliser. Curiously, the Montenegro v England result seemed to cheer the lads up a tad! Wednesday March 27th - having not ridden together so far as a group of 5, we decided to head to the hills and go for an expensive coffee and baguette in Sa Calobra. We all agreed that it was a long way to Tipperary and there was some discussion as to how far the round trip to Sa Calobra would be. This continued until it was proved beyond doubt that it was 96km (2,000m) and not the 100km that Cathal incorrectly previously thought! We now also know that half of this was down hill, green is the new black and James has power to burn. Great scenery mostly taken in on the ascents, roads which appeared to be scribbled across the mountainside by a 2 year old, roads where tour bus drivers appeared to be taking driving lessons, roads which in places brought the phrase you cant be serious to mind! What goes down must go up and there is only one road so the 20 minute descent into Sa Colabra was obviously followed by a one hour climb out! Is this why the mountain bikers

were getting lifts to the top in the back of a van with trailer? Everyone made it (some with smaller brake blocks and hotter wheel rims than they started with) and all arrived back at the hotel safe much to the relief of their travel insurance company! Thursday March 28th - twas declared a rest day of sorts, the day to explore bike shops for kit etc. Cathal and John went for the organised 100km rest day option by taking in a shop in Binnisalem with Stuart. For some a look in the window was enough to come to a decision, others decided to enter prior to arriving at the same conclusion, maybe the best shop, definitely the most expensive! For myself, James and Lance a 70km trip down the coast unveiled many more shops to peruse. A quiet square in Santa Margalida was our coffee stop of choice, providing the best value all week and the best food! We took in cycle shops and the old towns of Alcudia and Pollensa on the way back, managing to avoid some black clouds and their contents to our delight. Friday March 29th - tired legs, tired minds, no matter what the ailment we still had goals for our last day in the saddle. Lance chose an undulating 115km spin with an old friend, Irish Jack, and had one of his more enjoyable days in the saddle while for myself, Cathal and John a mountain called. They delivered me perfectly to the bottom of the climb from Selva to Lluc and it proved to be a climb to my liking, 8km at 5% with loads of switchbacks. Another coffee in the garage at the top followed by the long descent down by Pollensa Old Town which is always an opportunity to stretch the legs. A few more farewell drinks that evening and bed before midnight for three hours sleep. Saturday March 30th - perhaps the hardest day of the week. Certainly the hardest ascent if it was only from the bed to a taxi at 3.30am. Mallorca should be a potential destination for any cyclist with geography to suit all tastes and abilities. Quiet back roads with good road surfaces abound, flat or mountains all within your grasp. It was certainly a pleasure for me to be able to enjoy this place both on and off the bike with Cathal, John, James and Lance. Fellow cyclists prior to the trip, good company and friends, during and post. Well be going back...

Graham Custerson

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TRY SOME OF THESE TIPS ON YOUR NEXT RIDE...

There are tons of little tricks to riding your bike better. Many are quickly learned and result in instant improvement. 1. FINISH THE HILL: Finish The Hill is a term coaches use to remind riders that a climb doesnt end until gravity starts pulling you down the other side. Many riders start easing up when the top comes into view. Backing off when you see the top will make the final few meters last much longer. Instead ignore the physical and mental temptation and dont let up during those final few pedal strokes. You will gain distance on everyone whos doing it the normal way. 2. SHIFT UP A GEAR TO SMOOTH OUT ROUGH ROADS: You will see the pros do this on the cobble sections in events such as Paris-Roubaix and the same technique applies to some of your typical Irish back roads. Just before you hit a spot of rough road or bad tarmac, shift to a lower cog. This higher gear increases pedalling resistance and slows your cadence, in effect putting more weight on your feet and less on your seat. You bounce less and your ass doesnt get as hammered. The higher gear also gives you a more stable platform reducing bike chatter and increasing your control. You go just as fast and you wont spin out your gear if you need to stand for part of that rough section. When the road gets smoother just shift back to your spinning gear and carry on. This technique also works when you come upon a loose or slippery surface. A lower cadence in a higher gear gives you higher traction and control. 3. APPLY BRAKES EARLY WHEN RIMS ARE WET: Has this happened to you? It start raining and the next time you apply the brakes they dont work. Caliper brakes and water dont mix. When the rims and brake pads get wet, almost zero bike stopping friction is created no matter how hard you squeeze the brake levers. The trick is to anticipate the need to slow or stop and apply the brakes much earlier than normal so water is wiped from the rims and pads. Dont squeeze too hard. Just hold the 12

rubber against the metal like a squeegee. As the water is displaced you will need to be prepared for sudden stronger braking power. Be careful or you could lock up the wheel and skid. 4. SCAN AHEAD TO IMPROVE YOUR CORNERING : The main cornering mistake most riders make is not using their eyes. Instead of looking at the turn carefully, well in advance of approaching it, they stare too near their front wheel. Scanning the corner early helps you choose the correct speed and best line, then approach the corner as wide as traffic and other conditions allow, cut through the corner on nearly a straight line. Exit wide, again using as much of the road as you can safely inhabit. Keep an eye out for potholes, gravel etc and adjust your line slightly if necessary, which can safely be done only if you see them well in advance. 5. LET YOUR EYES STEER THE BIKE: Following on from the previous tip, one of the mysterious truths about cycling is that your bike will go right where you look. Often this is the reason why riders crash, they look fearfully at the one thing they dont want to hit or the place they dont want to go. So remember to focus and look where you want to go and let your eyes steer the bike.

CYCLE AGAINST SUICIDE - APRIL/MAY 13

On 22nd of May I headed out from RTE to begin a 14 day 1400km cycle around Ireland for CYCLE AGAINST SUICIDE. 14 days straight, no rest days, averaging 100km per day. The purpose of the cycle was to help make people aware of the scourge of suicide in the country and letting people know there is help available locally. Awareness, Awareness, Awareness! We headed out every day at 9.30am and cycled to a lunch break stop which was always in a college or school, where we were greeted by all the pupils, cheering us in. They had prepared sandwiches and cakes and soup for us. Then there was a presentation by people who had a story to tell, about suicide or other mental illness issues. These presentations were always inspirational and uplifting for adults and pupils. The basic message was Its OK not to feel OK! And its OK to ask for help! We started out from Dublin with about 800 riders of all abilities. Leaving Gorey the next day we had dropped to about 300. People could drop off at any point and join in at any point and stay for as long as they liked. Sign on cost was the same if you did one leg or multiple legs. So numbers varied, but always around 300 riders. There was a hardcore of LIFERS, as we became known. People who did the whole 14 days. We numbered about 50. Needless to say we all got to know each other pretty well on the way round. From Gorey we went Waterford, Cork, Killarney, Limerick, Galway, Castlebar, Sligo, Letterkenny, Moville, Manorhamilton, Cavan, Dundalk, and back to Dublin. When we left Cavan the numbers increased dramatically. Leaving Dundalk we had swelled to about 1000 riders and when we stopped in Balbriggan for our last meal we took on another 500 riders. 1500 cyclists in CAS orange was a sight to behold and a nightmare for the Gardai arriving into Dublin. For me it was a personal triumph. I had doubts that I would be able to ride for 14 days straight but after 3 days I knew that I would be ok. The buzz of the other riders plus the friendships made were enough to drive me on. Looking back on it now, it was more than just a bike ride. It was an inspirational journey were I met some brave people and heard some sad stories. But the cycling was fantastic, the scenery was amazing and to ride around your own country is something all bike riders should attempt. I was glad I did it. Roll on 22nd April 2014. Thats the next one!

John Boyle

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THE WAY - EL CAMINO DE SANTIAGO

The Camino de Santiago follows the ancient route to Finisterre which was believed, for centuries to be at the end of the world. St James, one of the apostles preached there and later his body was buried in Santiago. Today tens of thousands of pilgrims make their way on the French route from St Jean Pied a Porte to Santiago, in north western Spain, guided by yellow arrows and shell symbols on a journey of over 800 kilometres through the Pyrenees and over rough stone paths and roads sometimes in desperate weather conditions. A journey of spiritual awakening which can take forty days by foot. Last summer I cycled the entire route in ten days. I took my Specialized Crosstrail bike as much of the route is off road. I also pimped my bike by changing the bars and seatpost to carbon, adding a pannier rack to the back, putting on a pair of Armadillo Kevlar semi slick tyres which can run at 100psi and adding a bell which is vital to warn walkers of your approach. I brought two Ortileb front panniers which I mounted on the rear rack to save weight and also a bar bag which was big enough to hold my wallet, passport camera, maps etc. and could be easily carried when leaving my bike

outside cafs or sightseeing. I also took some spare tubes, which I did not need, a pump, water bottle, a muti-tool and spanners for removing pedals and bars for the flights. I brought a set of maps and guides including John Brierlys Pilgrims Guide to the Camino de Santiago which contains detailed routes and lists of hostels and

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The Cycling Pilgrim on the Camino Frances which has some good information on cycling routes. I flew to Biarritz and after reassembling my bike I cycled to Bayonne, about 8km away where I caught a train to St. Jean Pied a Porte, the starting point for my journey. Here I bought my Credenciales or Pilgrims Passport and received my first sello or stamp which one has to collect along the way to receive your Compostello or certificate on the completion of your pilgrimage in Santiago. I set off early the following morning but had to stop to buy a pair of waterproof leggings. I had brought a rain jacket but I was not expecting such cold wet conditions in May in Northern Spain. The Napoleonic route was impassable due to the weather conditions so I cycled by road climbing into the Pyrenees through a series of S bends and hitting gradients of 12% which is no joke on a bike laden down with panniers. At Ibaneta, 1057m above sea level, I stopped by a chapel and looked at the monuments to pilgrims who had fallen by the wayside and then I carried on to the monastery at Roncerevilles for another sello and soup and sandwiches. I had already covered in a few hours the whole journey covered by walkers in a day. After lunch the weather improved so I continued on the Camino along paths and lanes through the beautiful countryside to Pamplona, my destination for day one. Pamplona is the home of bullfighting and the famous running of the bulls. It is also featured in Earnest Hemmingways novel The Sun Also Rises. When I arrived all the hostels were full so I stayed in a nearby pension for 20 run by a lovely elderly lady who showed me where to store my bike and in the morning stamped my credential and wished me a Buen Camino. The next day took me through small villages and maize fields to the Alto de Perdon, a rough climb where I had to push my bike at times, to the famous pilgrims sculpture and an amazing view over the countryside. The descent by road was fast and furious not helped by the extra weight on the bike. One of the advantages of biking on the Camino is being able to take detours from the main route to see sights like the ancient hexagonal Knight Templar church at Eunate, part of a network of fortified churches built to protect pilgrims in medieval times. After a coffee and boccadillo at Eunate, I rejoined the Camino and headed for Puenta de Reina with its impressive bridge then onto the hilltop town of Ciraque where the Camino joins a roman road with its rough cobbled surface. This is not easy going on a bike. As the evening drew in I decided to stay the night in the public hostel in Estella.

Hostels on the Camino are cheap and cheerful. They cost 6 to 10 per night and consist of one or more large dormitories. In the evening I headed downtown where many of the restaurants have pilgrims menus of three courses including wine for less than 10. Most hostels have laundry facilities and offer a light breakfast for a few euros. My journey then took me past vineyards and the free wine fountain at Bodegas towards the first big city, Logrono. The Way passes through the hustle and bustle of the city centre before returning to the tranquillity of the countryside and carries on once again on a mixture of roads and pathways. The Torres bull silhouettes loom

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large on hilltops with the ever present snow capped mountains in the distance. I stopped occasionally to talk to walkers but apart from caf stops, cycling the Camino can sometimes be a lonely experience. One has plenty of time for reflection as the landscape changes again and the Camino becomes a red dusty track winding endlessly through the valleys. At Tosantos a church is carved out of the rocks on a hillside. Soon the main road becomes dangerous with heavy traffic so I return to the path which winds up the side of a mountain on a loose stone surface to Monumento a Los Caidos. As dusk approaches I descend on a mud track road through the forest with the sound of cuckoos calling, arriving at the hostel at Monasterio de San Jan de Ortega where I washed down my bike and oiled the chain for the next day. Burgos is a city with fabulous parks and a beautiful cathedral. It is important to take the time to explore and experience the cultural treasures one sees along the way to get the full experience of travelling on the Camino. Many small towns have wonderful plazas and churches with stunning works of art. Shortly after Burgos the Camino enters the Meseta region. This is the high central plain of northern Spain. The muddy trail winds through fields with stone walls not unlike those in Connemara. It rained for most of the day. As I cycle along I hear a Spanish man whistling a tune and I try to memorise it. In the distance on a hilltop I see the town of Castrojeriz and exhausted, I manage to get the last bed in the municipal hostel. The following morning I am the last person leaving. The Hostelero approaches me and tells me not to take the Camino path with my bicycle as it had been raining for three weeks and would be impassable. He drew me a map of the roads I should take to bypass this region. As I cycle along the country roads I notice that the familiar Camino signs, the shell and the churches, are still there. This was obviously the original Camino route. After a short while I notice a bird of prey hovering beside me, It stays with me for almost a kilometre flying beside me and then overhead. It is a strangely spiritual experience. At my next stop I meet cyclists who had stuck to the path and ended up having to carry their bikes through the mud. The way runs along a main road for much of the day so I make some good time. I see the unusual site of bodegas, little hobbit like houses built into the hillsides and on through the large town of Shagun with Storks nesting on the roofs and onto to El Burgo Ranero with shepherds tending their flocks on the local football pitches.

On day seven I meet up with an Italian carabinieri, Davido and we decide to travel together for a while. Its much easier cycling when you have someone to pace yourself against. We pass through the city of Leon with its Gaudi buildings and cathedral. The way climbs steeply from Saintibanez to Crucerio de Santa Toribio from which we have a wonderful view of Astorga. After seven days on the bike my limbs are aching. The following day Im on neurofen plus with codeine for breakfast but after a few hours cycling and a caf con leche and pan con Chocolate Im as good as new. We make another off route excursion to the adobe village of Castrillo de Polvares with its cobblestone streets. Later, we make one of the big climbs of the Camino to Le Cruz de Ferro. Its steep and slow but the weather is good and I get such a sense of elation when I reach the top. I throw a stone given to me by my son Rory onto the pile of stones left by pilgrims over hundreds of years. Then we make a fast, cold, wet, dangerous descent to Ponferrada with its ancient castles and on through poppy fields and vineyards to the welcoming alberge in Ruitelan.

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From Ruitelan the climb to OCebreiro turns out to be the most difficult so far averaging nearly 10% for over 7km in freezing rain and mist. After stop for soup at the caf beside the Iglesia at OCebreiro we descend into the region of Galicia and the countryside starts to resemble Ireland with its small green fields. Galicia is also noted for its food and the squid with pasta in black ink sauce is well worth trying. At Zan Xil we meet the steepest section of the Camino with a slope of 25% I have to zigzag the bike to get to the summit. The path travels through streams and over railway lines. Sometimes cycling is impossible and I have to get off and push or carry the bike. I arrive in Portomarin exhausted but hope to make it to Santiago tomorrow. Many pilgrims choose to only walk the last 100km to Santiago and this section is much busier and commercial. The sun comes out during the morning and we make our way switching between the paths and the road. The roads are still hilly and as we arrive in Arzua I feel that something

is not right. I almost faint when I get off the bike and realize that I have become dehydrated. I sit down and think that I might not be able to continue on today. Santiago is only 40km away and my flight is tomorrow. I rest for a while, have a coke and try to eat some food before continuing on wearily towards Santigo. After a few hours we arrive for the final climb to Monte de Gozo. At the summit there is a huge monument from which one gets the first view of Santiago. I stamp my credencial and cycle on through the suburbs arriving finally at the magnificent square in front of my final destination, The Cathedral de Santiago. I am overcome by the feeling of relief and jubilation on completion of my journey. I find a hostel and go for a celebratory dinner with Davido. The following morning, I present my credential with its many sellos and walk to the Oficina de Peregrino to receive my Compostello. It is a wonderful moment. I attend the pilgrims mass in the cathedral where they swing the massive incense burner, Botafumiero and then on to hug the statue of the apostle. I say goodbye to Davido, pack up my bike and head off to begin my journey home.

Ryanair fly to Biarritz and and Aer Lingus return from Santiago. The cost of flights start at 80 each way with a 40 surcharge each way for the bike. Bikes should be boxed for the flights. Boxes for the return flights are available for a few euro from bike shops in Santiago. Helmets, shoes, tools etc can be placed in the bike box. You will need a sleeping bag liner if you plan to stay at hostels. I also brought a small first aid kit. You can buy your Compostello at the Church of St James in Jamses Street, in Dublin. The weather in May can be mixed. From June to August there are many more pilgrims and walkers have priority in the hostels.
Tony Gavin

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RACING UPDATE
At this time of year, things take on a familiar pattern on the racing scene: the Winter Warriors have retired for the year; the RS has come and gone from the towns and villages; Mondello Races are in full swing; Derek Cliffords beard swings a little bit longer in the sunshine; and John Shannon starts winning races. So much has happened in the club since the spring and much of it is to be celebrated. I mention John Shannon particularly, as just like 2012, and predicted in our previous newsletter, John took the first racing victory for the club this season in Rathdowney on the last week in May. This was race #4 of the league which involves 6 local clubs and to this point has seen some very competitive and thankfully safe racing. Almost 30 Naas members have signed up for the league and all are getting a chance to hone their skills. I am particularly delighted by the number of youths, novices and women who have taken up the challenge, not forgetting some of the old hands from before like Pio Murtagh, Tom Noone and Bill OBrien who are enjoying their racing too. At the halfway stage in the league, 8 Naas riders are in the top 20 overall but will have a big task overhauling the Kilcullen and Carlow team leaders; regardless, these races are just about the best cycling training and skills sessions one can get and I hope everybody continues to come home safely. Of course, even better news of late surrounds our two leading lights on the ladies racing scene Lyns ONeill and Emily-Anne Doyle. Having trained since November and sharpened up by some league racing, it was a source of great satisfaction for all involved to see the two Naas women finish 1-2 in the Corkagh Park Ladies Racing series on June 4th. This Tuesday night series runs through the summer and it would be a shrewd bet to say that more victories and improved performances seem assured. They both deserve great credit for putting the club on this important and growing part of the cycling map. We have a dozen club riders at A3 level this is an 1100% increase on last season! Naas CC took 7th place in the team classification in the Gorey 3-Day at Easter, an unthinkable prospect 9 months ago. And as mentioned before, this is a hugely competitive category and open race average speeds since April have regularly hit 4142kmh; we are acquitting ourselves well but like most of the country, we have had

Pic by Brendan Culleton

Club League Pics by Ossory CC

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RACING UPDATE (cont.)

to admire the many truly excellent junior riders who continue to dominate the prizes each week. We do intend having a good A3 representation at the National A3 Road Race in August and will continue to race each week till then. Also, look out for Cormac Dunne and Des King in A4; they have made giant strides lately since hitting the racing scene and can climb and descend as good as anybody in the club. Mention of Junior brings us to Evan Cunningham: he is our star at this level and having completed his Leaving Cert he now departs for the Junior Tour of Ireland as part of the 4-man Leinster Team. We wish him the very best in a race now recognised as one of the most prominent 6-day junior races in Europe. On the TT scene, Joe Kelly and Hugh Gallagher have been up to Dundalk for the Leinster TT champs, where both riders produced PBs in the 10 Mile and 25 Mile tests. The latter event is a particularly specialist discipline and with the popularity of TTs returning, and seeing up to 50 club members trying out in our own local TT series, this is an avenue worth exploring by the club next season. I am hugely grateful to John Part from the C group for setting this up, to Colm Alley, Tom Keenan, Tom Noone, Keith Sheridan and Mattie Corcoran for helping out, and to everybody for

entering in the right spirit. And of course to Pat Spillane, the de-facto Racing Secretary on the ground at committee level, among many other things. To conclude, racing is going very well in the club. It is very much part of who we are and what we do. It compliments and works well with the touring and other aspects of the club and we intend to see this continue. I think the invitation to coach Paddy Doran last November is now truly bearing fruit and I am delighted to see so many people enjoying their racing at whatever level this is. My last request is that members ride strongly but safely, respect the jersey, and come home in one piece. Joe Kelly

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YOUTH GROUP UPDATE

For this edition of the newsletter we asked some youths in the club to give their views on the Youth section. This is what they had to say... very encouraging and great to hear, I think you will agree. So well done to everyone, especially our adult volunteers and committee members.

wait to go again to the track. I hope to get faster and to better my lap time. I hope to get proper cycling shorts or leggings so my Mum doesnt have to tape up the legs of my tracksuit bottoms with big brown tape up to my knees! Diarmuid Keaney
There is a full report on the youth section on the club website. Big news is that on July 2nd Evan Cunningham will represent Leinster in the Junior Tour of Ireland, well done Evan. We have more track cycling lined up, some mountain-biking with former Olympian Tarja Owens, plenty of time trials, league races, sportives and regular training spins. We are out and about taking in various events 4/5 times a week, every week. It is very busy but enjoyable and it is Summer after all.

I really enjoy the youth spins because they are enjoyable and they are well organized when out on the road. I believe the youth spin has improved so much since I started and I hope it continues. I think the mentors are really good with us and really kind. I really enjoy the speed work and overall its a great group, Im happy to be in it Conor Dowling Joining Naas Cycling Club is the best decision Ive ever made. I enjoy cycling with the youth group and I look forward to many events Robert OBrien I like descents and just going fast at the end of a spin. I want to get better at racing and climbing. The long spins are good, just enjoying yourself. I want to be a better sprinter David Grassick I loved the track, it is not as easy as you think as you have to be aware of who is around you always. I cant

Im no longer the club Youth Officer, I resigned due to work commitments. The youth section will continue to be run fantastically well, we have a super team in place. Many thanks to everyone all year especially the Club Committee, Chairman and Secretary. Check out the club website for our full half yearly report.
Tom Noone

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NCC MEMBERS ON TOUR IN MALLORCA - MAY 13

After much preparation and anticipation Maeve, Barry, John Boyle, Tom Ryan, Ann Hayden, John Dillon and Trish McGuane arrived in sunny southern Mallorca. Carlow Road Cycling Club under its leader Paddy Hayden have been doing this for years and took us under their wing in the first few days. We arrived late on Saturday and our hire bikes arrived on Sunday morning early. They were fantastic quality bikes in mint condition. We put our own pedals and saddle on them. Once everyone was happy with their set up, Paddy Hayden gave us a safety talk and off we went for our first days cycling. Straight into a good climb every morning before the legs were ready was challenging but we got used to it after a couple of days. We stopped regularly and no one was ever left behind. Coffee and cake were the order of the day. I ate so much of it I put on weight! We had an amazing time. Carlow Road Cycling Club were so good to each and every one of us. We owe them a great gratitude for all their help and guidance. Nothing was too much trouble. We hope to repeat this next year again and I would encourage anyone who can, to come along. There are hard climbs and easy climbs so something for everyone. The hotel we stayed in was inexpensive and included all you can eat and drink until midnight. We will start promoting it in early January 2014. To be clear it is not a Club event but one where we all watch out for each other and it just adds a new dimension to our club. Non cycling partners/spouses are very welcome and there is lots for them to do while we cycle. We were back most days by 2pm, time for lunch in the hotel and relaxation by the pool/beach for the afternoon.

Looking forward to next year already. And remember, as the saying goes... all that happens in Mallorca, stays in Mallorca!
Trish McGuane

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MEET THE MEMBERSHIP...

Meet the membership is when we ask a club member a number of questions and then expect some interesting and entertaining answers... no pressure there then! This issue the spotlight falls on one of our up and coming young riders EVAN CUNNINGHAM. 1. How many years have you been cycling with Naas CC and what was your introduction to cycling? Ive been with Naas for just over two years now. As a kid every July, I would religiously watch the Tour de France on Eurosport and after each stage I would race my brother up and down the road in front of our house. Of course I would always win the Yellow jersey and let my brother take the Green. 2. What type of cycling do you do and what do you enjoy most about it? Racing. Its an unforgiving sport but when you do well in a race theres no better feeling. 3. What advice would you give to any newcomer to the sport? The first time you wear clip-in shoes try avoid that awkward fall at traffic lights when you forget youre wearing the shoes and just slowly tip over in front of the waiting cars. 4. What bike(s) are you currently riding? Lappiere Audacio (2012 edition). 5. Favourite cycling location, route or road? I would have to say the loop around the lakes in Blessington, some great views up there. 6. Where is your favourite coffee stop? I dont drink coffee so for me it is all about the quality of the hot chocolate on offer and so far I have yet to come across a really good hot chocolate stop! 7. Who do you admire most in cycling, (not necessarily a PRO rider)? There are a few people that I admire, people like Tom Keenan, Tom Noone, John Boyle, Joe Kelly and anybody really who has helped me over the last few years. Special mention to my Dad who still tries desperately to keep up with me on the bike!! 8. What would you consider your cycling strength and weaknesses? Without doubt my biggest strength is climbing, if youve seen me youll know why. Biggest weaknesses would be descending and shaving my legs, I still have yet to perfect my technique on both! 9. Any major objectives for whats left of this season or next season? Im riding the Junior Tour for the Leinster team in the first week of July so thats the big thing for me this year. As for next year just a nice and simple 1st place would be great. 10. Tell us something we dont know about you already that you dont mind everyone now knowing? Yeah theres a lot that I could put down here but I want to maintain some dignity... As a kid I was a childrens tv star, appearing on the kids talk show The Loft as well as winning the gameshow Quizone in the process scoring the highest score ever in the history of the show.

LEISURE TOURS
The following are some upcoming leisure events that may be of interest to NCC members in the coming months: Sun 30th June - Naas CC Wicklow Peaks Cycling Challenge Sat 6th July - The Ring of Kerry Sat, 13 July - Paddy Martin Randonnee - Bray Wheelers Sun, 14 July - Deenside Wheelers Ladies Sportive, Castlecomer Sun, 28 July - An Post Heritage Cycle Tour of Meath Sat, 3 August - Tour de Kilkenny Sun 11th August - Naas CC Martin Earley Tour of Kildare Sun 18th August - Stephen Roche Leinster Loop Sun 25th August - Sean Kelly Tour of Waterford Sun, 8 September - Giants Causeway Coast Sportive Sat 28 September - Tour of the Falling Leaves, Baltinglass

CYCLING THE WEB

More cycling related websites which may be of interest: www.ringofkerrycycle.ie www.velonews.competitor.com www.bicycling.com www.bicycletutor.com www.bicycling.about.com www.roadbikereview.com www.pinkbike.com

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NAAS CYCLING CLUB TOURS UPDATE

2013 WICKLOW PEAKS CYCLING CHALLENGE: There are a few minor changes to this years Wicklow Peaks Challenge, the most noticeable one being the addition of a third route of 100km. We have decided to add this third route to facilitate any cyclists who feel that the 55km route is a little short and the 120km route with Shay Elliott and Slieve Mann is a little too long. The good news is that you dont have to decide which route home from Laragh you want to take until you get there. At that stage your legs will either be saying home via Wicklow Gap or home via Slieve Mann - listen to your legs!!. The 55km route is virtually unchanged from last year, right over the Blessington Bridge, around the Lakes, foodstop in Ballyknockan and home via Valleymount, Tulfarris, Ballymore and joining the other two routes in Brannockstown for the run in to Naas via Kilashee. A challenging 55km with some nice hills and scenery. The 100 and 120km routes will follow the same route all the way to Laragh via Kilbride, Sally Gap, Lugalla and Roundwood with the foodstop in Lynhams of Laragh car park. The 100km route will head home via the Wicklow Gap and Hollywood before heading to Ballymore and Brannockstown. The 120km will leave Laragh and head up Shay Elliott, Slieve Mann, Aughavannagh, Ballinabarney Gap, and home via The Glen of Imaal, Dunlavin and Brannockstown. With over 150 members in the club to date, the NCC Committee ask that ALL MEMBERS MAKE THE EFFORT TO ATTEND THIS EVENT. Its our first tour this year and we want to see a mass of red, black and white jerseys at the start line outside the town hall on the 30th. The three routes ensure that there is a challenging route for everyone so please make an effort to be there. ALL PROCEEDS FROM THIS YEARS WICKLOW PEAKS EVENT WILL GO TOWARDS A NEW SENSORY ROOM IN SAPLINGS SCHOOL, KILL. The Saplings School for Children with Autism and Complex Needs in Kill, Co. Kildare was established in 2001 by a dedicated group of parents for the sole purpose of securing a centre of excellence, to provide their children with an effective, evidence based education that would allow each child to achieve their full potential. Since moving into the new school building in January 2013 the children have not had the much needed facility of a sensory room. A sensory room will give the children a place where they can enjoy soothing lighting and music in a comfortable environment, which will help to meet their

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sensory needs. Through fundraising, and with all the money raised by the Wicklow Peaks Cycling Challenge, Saplings hope to be in a position to transform a former storage room into a fully equipped sensory room with cushioned flooring, fibre optic lighting, vibrating wall cushions, multi functional bubble tube, a visual projector system and an audio system. It is very true of Saplings that from little acorns great oak trees grow, and there is no doubt in anyones mind that they would not be where they are today without the untiring work and dedication that is continually evident of the parents, staff and the supporting community at Saplings. Fundraising events like the Wicklow Peaks are vital to the schools future growth.

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2013 TOUR OF KILDARE: The 2013 Tour of Kildare is the twelfth edition of this very successful event run in conjunction with The Marie Keating Foundation. This year we are amending the routes slightly and making the intermediate route 60km and adding 10km to the 100km route. The 60km and 110km routes head from The Naas Court Hotel towards Johnstown and cross the Naas Road at Kill. The picturesque village of Straffan is soon followed by Barberstown Cross where both routes split. The 60km heads back to the foodstop in Clane via Rathcoffey while the 110km takes in the outskirts of Celbridge, and Maynooth and then heads back to Clane via Kilcock. The foodstop in Clane GAA is followed on both routes by Prosperous, Kilmeague and the Hill of Allen to Milltown. The routes split again here with the 60km heading back to Naas via the outskirts of Newbridge and the 110km taking in Boston Hill, Dunmurray and, of course, The Wall. The traditional gallop alongside the Curragh Racecourse while avoiding the multi-coloured sheep is followed by Kilcullen and the sprint home from Kilashee. Glad to report that the post event

barbeque at the Naas Court Hotel is unchanged where cyclists can discuss who dropped who while munching a burger! Its important to also mention that the family 20km cycle also takes place as usual with the familiar route of Naas to Sallins to Bodenstown Cross and back to Naas via the canal banks. This cycle is always well marshalled so that the participating cyclists are well protected from the traffic. The event is again supported by EUROCYCLES, Kildare Co. Council, Naas Court Hotel, Naas Town Council and Clane GAA. All funds raised by the Martin Earley Tour of Kildare go directly to The Marie Keating Foundation. Colm Alley

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www.largriffinart.com & www.facebook.com/largriffinart

NCC MEMBERSHIP NEWS - NEXT ISSUE, AUTUMN 2013 OUT IN SEPTEMBER

Newsletter designed & edited by Lance Connolly - lanceconnolly@eircom.net