Time Trial League

New for 2012

2012-01-25T10:25:00.008Z

Provisional calendar is out - please see bottom of this page.
The first TT will be Killynure on April 10th. This event will be a "turn up, queue at the start line, sign on, and go". This is to maximise the daylight.

All participants must pre-register this year. No registration on the night. TI licenses must be shown at registration.

A contact person has been assigned for each club. Your contact will organise a pre-registration time and place. Contacts are:

Invictus - Vaughan
QUB Tri - Brian Kinsella
Olympian - Desi & Glen

Note: there are no guests allowed this year to comply with TI insurance.

Prizegiving 2011

2011-09-20T16:19:00.003+01:00

Prize giving will be held in Harlequins on Fri 28th October.

(this is a change from the original 21st October)

Please let Vaughan, Wes, Desi or Marty know asap for numbers and if you require a veggie option.

Chicken curry, dessert, wine and prizes; best value in town!

Non-league people, i.e., those that did not pay the exceedingly good value £20, are welcome but will have to pay £10.

Carryduff - Handicap (6th Sep 2011)

2011-09-06T22:20:00.006+01:00

The last TT of the season and possibly the hardest thanks to the windy conditions. The weather did not deter the hardy men and women from the Olympian Tri club, QUB Tri and Lunchtime Legends.

This race was all about being first across the line, dictated by the McHenry offset factor.

The boys had a thrilling race to the line with Alan pipping a flag waving Ironman 69.6 Enda by a mere second.

Aero girl Judith finished a very strong season off with another win. Aisling definitely owes Peter a drink (or some pipe leaf tobacco) for the draft up the hill out of Moneyreagh.

Keep an eye on this site for details of the prize giving.

Ladies


1 Judith  41:52 33:22
2 Aisling 42:50 38:20

Boys

   
1 Alan     40:30 33:45
2 Enda     40:31 29:41
3 Jon      41:08 33:48
4 Dave L   41:27 33:07
5 Wes      41:49 35:19
6 Clifford 41:55 33:40
7 Vaughan  42:43 31:48
8 Peter    43:05 38:10
9 Glen     43:33 35:43

Thanks to time keepers: Ed, Desi and Colm

Killynure - League Race #12 (30th Aug 2011)

2011-08-30T23:23:00.003+01:00

As the evenings draw shorter the last league race took place. 16 people started but only 14 finished. Thorns from hedge cutting were responsible for 2 punctures putting out both McNulty and McManus.

Last years "monster cyclist" Maeve has been very noticeably absent this year. However she must be doing something right because Maeve scored not only a win but her first win ever.

No surprise that the flying McWilliams got the best time of the night. Also, Hanratty fresh back from holidays (again) dispatched Lonnen with some ease.

Next week finishes the TT season with a first across the line handicap starting from carryduff layby.

Girls


1	maeve 	        23.21

2	sara 	        23.43

3	aisling 	24.21

Boys


1	stephen	        19.42

2	mike lyons	21

3	peter m	        21.2

4	colm 	        21.25

5	dave l	        21.32

6	glen	        22

7	enda	        22.12

8	john r	        22.29

9	kevin	        22.41

10	andrew	        23.03

11	peter mcg	24.01

--	tony	        dnf

--	john mcmanus	dnf

Thanks to time keepers Bill, Davy and Matt.

Temple - Saintfield League Race #11 (23rd Aug 2011)

2011-08-23T21:44:00.002+01:00

You leave work at 4pm to be in good time for the Temple TT. At the bus stop you realise that Translink's new money saving measures means there are less buses. You wait a long 20mins. Then a women bus driver, driving miss daisy, must be the slowest journey ever. The bus finally reaches the destination and within 15 mins you are home.

You get your bike from the garage and put on your fancy 50mm deep rimmed wheels. Floor pump out you watch and hear the pressure gauge snort up to 120psi in rear and 116 in front. You rummage through what has become the bicycle clothes drawer; your in luck, favorite gear is clean.

You cycle nice and easy up to Temple making sure to stay in the small ring; don't want to get to the start line exhausted.

In the distance you see the "Race In Progress" sign and know that McHenry is about. You sign on and engage in small chit-chat with the other riders. Your watch says 6:45pm and the first rider is leaving on time.

Your turn next, 30 secs count down, and you ensure a nice sharp cleat click-in as you power away. Conditions are good and you feel a gentle headwind along the first leg towards Ballynahinch. You are aware of the wind passing through your helmet and the sound of the wheels eating up the road. You clear your nostrils of snot and take the Saintfield roundabout as fast as possible; only two climbs of note left.

Approaching the time keepers you shout your number and let the bike freewheel to a stop. Then the last rider is home and the results get called out in reverse order for the girls and the boys. You hear McWilliams time and congratulate him on a new course record. You notice people are smiling more than they were 40 mins ago as the endorphins do their work. McHenry announces the time keepers for next weeks Killynure race as people go their own way home.

X-Factor


1	Judith Lowry	29.23

2	Sara Manning	30.55

3	Aisling Trainor	33.27

4	Heather Bamford	34.48

Big Brothers

		

1	Stephen McWilliams	25.41

2	Enda Marron	        26.57

3	Vaughan Purnell	        27.07

4	Hooperman	        27.16

5	Peter Morrison	        28.45

6	Dave Lonnen	        28.54

7	John McManus	        28.56

8	Desi McHenry	        29.19

9	Bill Rafferty	        29.46

10	Alan Laverty	        30.1

11	Johnny Boylan	        30.2

12	Carl King	        31.5

13	Ed Smith	        31.52

14	Andrew McMurray	        32.41

15	Thomos O'Hagan	        33.05

Thanks to time keepers Mike and Niall.

PS: obviously bored and so tried to write this weeks report in 2nd person

Carryduff - Ballygowan League Race #10 (16th Aug 2011)

2011-08-16T21:17:00.005+01:00

This was the last league race of the season on the Carryduff - Ballgowan course. It may be late in the season but there were a few new/old faces present; Neil Darby, Mark Brown and Tony McNulty all making their first appearances.

Best performance of the night arguably went to that mild mannered gentleman Davy Calvert who put one over on his rivals. The rivals acted pleased for him afterward but there will no doubt be a few going home to plan their next bike upgrade!

What game is Boylan playing? Surely someone who can knock out a 61min cycle in an Olympic triathlon can do better than 18th place? Close monitoring of Boylan's pre-race "fuelling" compulsary at next race.

Finally why is it that Enda Marron's cycle computer is always slower than the stopwatch? We will be writing to the BBC to make a Horizon documentary on this strange quantum phenomenon.

Notice: can anyone give Sara a lift to Kenmare? Poor Sara deparately wants to use her Kiwi skills to find the Lost Sheep.

Khaleesi


1	Judith Lowry	30.57

2	Sara Hanning	32.12

3	Aisling Trainor	34.53

4	Anne Duffy	38

Dragonlords

		

1	Mark Brown	        27.06

2	Stephen McWilliams	27.44

3	Paul Carroll	        28

4	Vaughan Purnell	        28.46

5	Enda Marron	        28.51

6	Davy Calvert	        30.35

7	Colm Hanratty	        30.43

8	Neil Darby	        30.45

9	Desi McHenry	        30.58

10	Dave Lonnen	        31

11	Clifford Rodgers	31.07

12	David Morrissey	        31.07

13	John McManus	        31.1

14	Nial Magee	        31.36

15	Tony McNulty	        31.37

16	Neville O'Neil	        32.12

17	Mr. Lavery	        32.22

18	Johnny Boylan	        32.55

19	Kevin Eagen	        33.53

20	Andrew McMurray	        35.03

21	Paddy Dewer	        39.18

Thanks to timekeepers: Marty and Conor.

Temple 2 LAP (9th August 2011 )

2011-08-11T10:06:00.003+01:00

With Vaughan recovering from the Mourne triathlon at the weekend and two weeks holiday (gorging on 5 course dinners every night), I have taken up the opportunity to slate anyone who stands out from the crowd.

The Temple route (twice) is the most feared route of the series and once again the relatively low turn-out reflected this. Conditions were close to perfect for racing with a fairly calm evening and no rain.

“The quicker you get there, the shorter the pain”, from James Waddington’s cycling book ‘Bad to the Bone’. Paul Carroll took a leaf out of this book by smashing the course record in a blistering 53.39. Enda and Eamon benefited from their week’s training in the Dolomites and finished 2nd and 3rd respectively.

In the ladies league, performance of the evening went to newcomer Sara Hanning, hammering her closest rival by four minutes. Sara is from a rowing background so the cross-over benefits between the two sports is obvious.

Thanks to John McManus and Glen Pollock for timekeeping.

Timekeepers for next week are Marty Curran and Connor Reilly – thanks for volunteering. With only a few races left before the season there are several people who have yet to volunteer for time-keeping. We know who you are so to prevent humiliation at the end of season awards night (details to be announced), ensure you volunteer.

Glen

Betty’s


 		        Lap 1	Finish time



1. Sara Hanning		31.26	62.55

2. Aisleen Trainer      33.09	67.00

3. Ali McConnell        32.57	67.33

4. Maeve Savage		33.43	68.28

Dudes


                        Lap 1   Finish time



1. Paul Carroll		26.40	53.39

2. Enda Marron		26.45	54.14

3. Eamon Hill		26.53	55.04

4. Vaughan Purnell	27.18	55.09

5. Matt Allum		28.20	56.50

6. Dave Lonnen		29.03	58.56  

7. Niall Magee		29.05	59.38

8. Mike Lyons		28.55	59.45

9. Davy Calvert		29.22	60.21

10. David Morrissey	29.27	60.26

11. Conor Reilly	30.09	61.47

12. Bill Rafferty       30.25	61.55

13. Peter McGuickan	31.39	65.29

14. Karl King		32.59	67.22

15. Brendan Lyons	32.34	74.28

Temple Brick (2nd Aug 2011)

2011-08-04T10:55:00.001+01:00

Good conditions for the temple brick tonight with Sarah putting in a good bike leg to win the ladies. Aisling also continues to improve and also PB’d again on the bike course. In the Gents, Matt showed why the legends TTs were far more important than the National Championships at the weekend by saving himself for tonight and a glorious victory! Mike Lyons put in the fastest bike leg to finish second, with Dave L in third.

Ladies

1. Sarah Hanning 31.43 14.12 45.47

2. Aisling Trainor 33.18 13.38 46.56

Gents

1. Matt Allum 28.18 11.06 39.12

2. Mike Lyons 28.09 11.23 39.32

3. Dave Lonnen 28.42 11.22 40.04

4. Colm Hanratty 29.05 12.18 41.23

5. Niall Magee 30.07 12.43 42.50

6. Marty Lennon 31.16 11.44 43.00

7. Ciaran Hanratty 31.11 12.02 43.13

8. Alan Laverty 32.00 11.48 43.48

9. Shane Quinn 32.53 11.27 44.20

10 Kieran McVeigh 31.20 13.12 44.32

11. Ed Smith 31.48 14.24 45.12

12. Peter McGuicken 30.44 14.46 45.30

13. John McManus 29.09

14. Johnny Boylan Punctured on way up L

David Lonnen

Killynure - League Race #9 (26th July 2011)

2011-08-04T10:53:00.003+01:00

Results


1	Sara	23.26

2	Maeve	24.35

3	Aisling	24.47

4	Anne	25.44

5	Angela	25.57

6	Heather	25.59

7	Mary	27.19

		

1	Eamon	       19.51

2	Enda	       20.07

3	Hooperman      20.2

4	Mike	       20.29

5	John	       21

6	Clifford       21.57

7	Conor	       22.11

8	Kieran	       22.12

9	David	       22.22

10	Andrew	       22.43

11	Alan	       22.5

12	Bill	       23.02

13	Peter	       23.46

14	Ed	       23.52

15	Shane	       24.21

16	Patrick	       28.39

Temple - Saintfield League Race #8 (19th July 2011)

2011-07-19T21:14:00.003+01:00

Business as usual for the 8th out of 12 league races. Leaving from Temple the riders enjoyed a tailwind but faced a tough 3 mile uphill finish, bearing out the Second Law of Thermodynamics. [Who said this report was not highbrow enough]

Miss Lowry set the proverbial cat amongst the pigeons on her new TT bike (and borrowed wheels) taking minutes off her PB and chic-ing nearly all the guys. This result has prompted calls to create a separate league race for those who insist on turning up each week with new gear. Effectively the league is in the middle of a benign arms-race.

It is interesting to observe the multitude ways of shouting out one's race number at the finish line. On one end of the scale we have Enda shouting at 20 decibels, then we have the shy ones who whisper out their number to the wind and finally the breathless ones. Which are you?

Girls


1 Judith Lowry        28.51
2 Ali McConnell       32.44
3 Maeve Savage        33.06
4 Sara Hanning        34.00
5 Caroline Cullen     34.11
6 Emma Bamford        34.44
7 Heather Bamford     35.13
8 Angela Burns        35.50
9 Barbara Brown       37.20
10 Claire Burns       38.38

Boys

  
1 Stephen McWilliams  26.3
2 Paul Carroll        26.32
3 Vaughan Purnell     27.06
4 Eamon Hill          27.20
5 Enda Marron         27.22
6 Matt Allum          28.13
7 Hooperman           28.44
8 Dave Lonnen         29.03
9 Colm Hanratty       29.28
10 John McManus       29.37
11 Conor Reilly       30.13
12 Marty Lennon       30.33
13 Neville O'Neill    30.43
14 Nial Magee         31.14
15 Johnny Boylan      31.23
16 Wes Kettyle        31.55
17 Ed Smith           32.02
18 Kieran Hanratty    32.32
19 Willie Noteman     33.26
20 Bill Rafferty      dnf

Thanks to timekeepers: Paddy and Peter McGuicken

Holiday arrangement

2011-07-11T10:16:00.002+01:00

Reminder: There is no offical or timed TT scheduled for Tuesday 12th July.

Instead Enda will be in charge of a group ride from the House of Sport at the usual time of 6:45PM.

Distance: 63K (with opportunities for people to drop off home earlier)
Time: 2 hours
Terrain: 1 hill otherwise flat/ rolling
General route: HOS, Drumbo, Tullyard hill, Hillsborough, Ballynahinch, Saintfield, Ballygowan, Moneyreagh, Carryduff (tt course), Forestside
Nothing radical and over familiar roads

Carryduff - Ballygowan League Race #7 (5th July 2011)

2011-07-05T21:13:00.004+01:00

A surprisingly good evening with a bit of headwind on the way out to Saintfield marked the return of the League Races.

For those who drive up to the TTs there is always the question of what you do with your car keys. Heaven forbid having to carry the weight of a car key in your jersey pocket! Ed Smith now has an innovative solution to this problem which without any sugar coating simply involves slinging your keys in the bushes. This technique was so effective and secure that 4 people had to hunt in the bushes for 10 mins to find the keys after the TT.

Hooperman showed a distinct lack of business acumen when he shamefully admitted buying tubes from a shop during the week. How did the Hooperman not know that he could have gotten a better deal from the TT tube stockpile (that's the big plastic jar full of tubes you see each week). Martin Lewis must be turning in his grave.

On a serious note we hope that Mike Millar is okay after colliding with a car at the Saintfield-Ballygowan turn. This is an example of why the organisers insist on the disclaimer being signed each week and ask for TI membership. It is each persons responsibility to cycle safely on the roads.

Next week (12th July holiday) Enda is being put in charge. The proposal is to meet at the House of Sport at 6:45pm. The format will be to go for a 60K spin which will take in sections of the normal TT courses and give a chance for some chaingang work.

Girls


1 Judith Lowry        32.35
2 Emma Bamford        33.48
3 Ali McConnell       34.53
4 Aisling Trainor     35.25
5 Caroline Cullan     36.42
6 Heather Bamford     37.05
7 Anne Duffy          38.06
8 Angela Burns        39.12

Boys

  
1 Stephen McWilliams  27.23
2 Enda Marron         27.55
3 Eamon Hill          28.32
4 Hooperman           29.24
5 Vaughan Purnell     29.31
6 Matt Allum          29.45
7 Mike Lyons          30.14
8 Dave Lonnen         30.16
9 Desi McHenry        30.43
10 Peter Morrison     30.52
11 Glen Pollock       30.52
12 Niall Magee        31.32
13 Marty Lennon       31.33
14 Davy Calvert       31.34
15 Bill Rafferty      31.39
16 Connor Reilly      32.12
17 Kevin Egan         33.16
18 Karl King          33.49
19 Peter McGuicken    33.53
20 Shane Quinn        34.15
21 Paul Trainor       34.17
22 Ed Smith           34.22
23 Garrett Green      34.27
24 Andrew McMurray    35.05
25 Gerard Keogh       36.07
26 Patrick Dewar      41.25
27 Mike Millar dnf

Thanks to time keepers: John McManus and Neville.

Carryduff to Ballynahinch There and Back - (28th June 2010)

2011-06-28T21:47:00.003+01:00

A pleasant evening with a sunset made a change from standing around shivering in the rain. The format was a straight 10K run down the A24 turning on 30 mins as they say in swimming terminology. The return journey provides more uphill and most people took 2-3 mins longer completing this leg.

A welcome back to John McManus who has been off travelling for the last 3 months. McManus once a "player" last year now finds himself with some remedial biking to do which he is well up for.

In the ladies competition Lowry showed a rare chink in her armour and dropped to third leaving McConnell to bask in the glory.

The mens competition had some very close together results with the difference probably coming down to being able to clip-in faster than the other person.

There has not been a joke this year so here's one to get the guys thinking on the next wet Sunday:
One morning a mad cycling nut gets up for his normal 3 hour morning training ride. He kisses his wife, still in bed, says goodbye and heads out. He is met with gale force winds, driving rain, hail and lightening strikes. After 10 minutes of being blown around, getting soaking wet and nearly hit by lightening he calls it quits heads home and quietly gets back into bed.
"Wow it's really horrible weather out there," he whispers.
"Yeah," says the wife, "can you believe my stupid husband is out there?"

Girls


1 Ali McConnell      17:06 20:09 37:15
2 Aisling Trainor    17:24 20:36 38:00
3 Judith Lowry       17:35 20:58 38:33
4 Angela Burns       18:57 22:12 41:09

Boys


1 Paul Carroll       13:55 16:06 30:01
2 Eamon Hill         13:55 16:08 30:03
3 Enda Marron        14:02 16:34 30:36
4 Vaughan Purnell    14:24 16:57 31:21
5 Matt Allum         14:24 17:24 31:48
6 Thomas Leitch      14:48 17:27 32:15
7 Colm Hanratty      14:55 17:43 32:38
8 David Morrissey    14:55 17:54 32:49
9 Glen Pollock       15:12 17:47 32:59
10 Desi McHenry      15:06 17:55 33:01
11 Davy Calvert      15:06 17:59 33:05
12 Peter Morrison    14:59 18:12 33:11
13 Dave Lonnen       15:14 18:04 33:18
14 Clifford Rodgers  15:27 18:08 33:35
15 Marty Lennon      15:26 18:30 33:56
16 Kieran McVeigh    15:22 18:41 34:03
17 John McManus      15:52 18:22 34:14
18 Karl King         15:43 19:19 35:02
19 Niall Magee       15:57 19:10 35:07
20 Johnny Davis      16:05 19:14 35:19
21 Garrett Greene    16:48 19:34 36:22
22 Kevin Allan       17:39 21:42 39:21
23 Patrick Dewer     19:55 25:03 44:58

Thanks to timekeepers: Neville, Wes, Anne and (?)

Bike Orienteering and BBQ (21st June 2011)

2011-06-22T10:16:00.006+01:00

The longest day of the year gave a wet, damp and cloudy evening. However this did not deter 35 or so hardy souls who took part in the inaugural bike orienteering event.

To begin there was a random draw forming teams of two. Teams then were given a map with numbered points which could be visited in any order. There was a time limit of 45 mins in force with time penalties for arriving back late. At each point the teams had to answer a question, often cryptic - blame Marty.

One other rule was that riders stay together at all times. However, any casual bystander would have seen plenty of individuals time trialling all over the place. Time management was poor as well with only Vaughan and Glen arriving back in time.

There were many contenders including the experienced mountain navigator Kettyle who lost time with a minor mechanical involving his rear wheel coming off? Neville of drafting and starting-before-the-gun fame tried to cheat with some 3G technology and a bit of Google street view only to lose the 3G signal.

The all girl team of Heather and Aisling triumphed in the end. Was this a case of brain over brawn?

After the orienteering there was a BBQ with home-made burgers and twirly sausage. Matt had a go on the tightrope slack wire; let's just say he won't be joining the circus this week.

PUBLIC HEALTH WARNING - Glen posing in purple pants! A fashion expose to surely eclipse all others.

Temple 2 LAPS (15th June 2011)

2011-06-16T12:16:00.005+01:00

A great result for Enda indicating that the longer distances may be his forte. Also another ominously good performance from McHenry who seems to be getting better every week.

On the ladies race Judith is out on her own. Can Ali up her game before the end of the season to give Judith some competition?

No sign of Patrick this week; hopefully he did not get lost on his way to Temple. Last week Patrick missed the left turn at Moneyreagh and ended up practically in Belfast harbour. Luckily the PSNI were close by and able to give Patrick a lift back up to Carryduff.

Ladies


1. Judith Lowry         63.23 
2. Ali McConnell        67.12 
3. Aisling Trainor      70.25 
4. Joanne Bingham       71.37 
5. Rose McGovern        71.55 
6. Angela Burns         73.55 
7. Anne Duffy           74.01 
8. Caroline Cullen      74.20

Gents


1. Enda Morrow          54.47 
2. Paul Carroll         55.36 
3. Stephen McWilliams   56.10 
4. Hooperman            56.35 
5. Eamon Hill           56.40 
6. Colm Hanratty        59.24 
7. Desi McHenry         59.33 
8. Dave Lonnon          60.29 
9. Matt Allum           60.35 
10. Clifford Rodgers    61.01 
11. Johnny Bolan        61.45 
12. Bill Rafferty       62.18 
13. Peter Morrison      64.18 
14. Greg Foster         64.44 
14. Wes Kyttle          64.44 
15. Jon Reilly          65.56 
16. Willie Noteman      66.30 
17. Peter McGuickan     67.07 
18. Shane Quinn         67.25 
19. Karl King           68.20 
20. Kevin Egan          68.30 
21. Ed Smith            70.26 
22. Garrett Green       70.53 
23. Andrew McMurray     71.19 
24. Davy Calvert        DNF (mech/puncture/tired)

MIDSUMMER BBQ & ORIENTEERING

2011-06-10T11:36:00.003+01:00

21ST JUNE

Deadline for registering is June 14th. Contact Desi or sign the sheet this Tue at the TT.

The orienteering

- The orienteering starts at 6:45PM from Desi's house - see map on right hand side.
- Duration is 45 mins.
- Do as many points as possible within time and in any order.
- At each point you ID a feature (no dibbing).
- Time penalty given for late back and missing points.
- Riders go at 1 min intervals.
- Teams of 2 people, randomly drawn together.
- 2 bottles of wine for the winning team.

The BBQ

- Parking in Desi's field on the night.
- Free for all who have paid £20.
- Partners are welcome.
- Non-league TT party people can also go for a £5 charge.
- BYO.

Carryduff Handicap - 7th May 2011

2011-06-09T12:26:00.005+01:00

A loud peal of thunder got the Handicap TT underway. As the riders sped off towards blue skies over Ballygowan the unlucky timekeepers got an epic soaking.

For this handicap event Desi had carefully worked time penalties for each rider which were subtracted at the end. A low time penalty can be interpreted as an insult and a high time penalty as a certain form of praise from the ex-World Champ.

A delighted Aisling scooped her first victory of the year, narrowly beating Caroline.

In the boys results, Marty Lennon who this year has been more elusive than that snow leopard David Attenborough was searching for, rolled over the line in the first place.

Two riders were lost in action; Patrick and Mike Lyons. For Mike this makes punctures two weeks in a row. Luckily for him there are great value innner tubes available for the low cost of £3 each.

The Midsummer TT BBQ name list was started so anyone going needs to get on this list asap.

Girls


1 Aisling     00:35:44 00:32:14
2 Caroline     0:36:36 00:32:36

Boys

   
1 Marty        00:31:04 00:24:34
2 Bill         00:32:21 00:25:16
3 David M      00:31:25 00:27:00
4 Johnny B     00:31:40 00:27:05
5 Niall        00:31:37 00:27:12
6 Dave L       00:32:24 00:27:29
7 Glen         00:32:16 00:27:41
8 Paul C       00:28:18 00:27:43
9 Davy C       00:32:22 00:27:52
10 Desi        00:31:04 00:27:54
11 Willie      00:35:12 00:28:07
12 Peter       00:36:46 00:28:11
13 Thomas L    00:30:55 00:28:30
14 Johnny F    00:31:55 00:28:35
15 Ed Q.F.     00:35:49 00:28:44
16 Clifford    00:32:00 00:29:00
17 Neville     00:30:28 00:29:08
18 Hooperman   00:30:17 00:29:37
19 Wes         00:34:14 00:29:44

Thanks to timekeepers: Vaughan, Colm, Ali and Shane

Temple Brick (31st May 2011)

2011-05-31T22:10:00.005+01:00

This brick session comprised the regular Temple TT bike course followed by a 2 mile run. Conditions were dry with a light wind.

The results below show some interesting stats and it's clear to see where peoples strengths and weaknesses are. No need to mention Dave Lonnen or Enda Marron here.

One quick fashion update: Neville, always a dedicated follower of fashion, has followed Eamon's lead and now has a pair of black calfy things!

Tigresses


                      Bike       Run       Total
      
1 Ali McConnell       33:20 (1)  14:48 (2) 48:08
2 Angela Burns        35:26 (2)  12:48 (1) 48:14

Tigers

     
1 Paul Carroll        26:23 (1)  10:44 (1)  37:07
2 Eamon Hill          26:56 (2)  11:57 (4)  38:53
3 Vaughan Purnell     27:44 (4)  12:36 (8)  40:20
4 Matt Allum          28:33 (5)  12:10 (5)  40:43
5 Colm Hanratty       29:05 (6)  12:42 (9)  41:47
6 Enda Marron         27:10 (3)  15:16 (22) 42:26
7 Dave Lonnen         30:47 (14) 11:41 (2)  42:28
8 Neville O'Neill     29:40 (8)  13:07 (12) 42:47
9 Marty Lennon        30:25 (9)  12:34 (6)  42:59
10 Desi McHenry       29:33 (7)  13:42 (15) 43:15
11 Johnny Boylan      31:44 (18) 11:53 (3)  43:37
12 Bill Rafferty      30:48 (15) 13:02 (11) 43:50
13 Clifford Rodgers   30:28 (10) 13:23 (13) 43:51
14 Glen Pollock       30:34 (11) 14:12 (16) 44:46
15 Kieran McVeigh     30:42 (13) 14:25 (17) 45:07
16 Davy Calvert       30:55 (16) 14:44 (20) 45:39
17 Alan Laverty       33:20 (22) 12:35 (7)  45:55
18 Brian Clockwatcher 31:41 (17) 14:27 (18) 46:08
19 Niall Magee        30:40 (12) 15:29 (23) 46:09
20 David Morrisey     32:05 (19) 14:55 (21) 47:00
21 Andrew McMurray    34:22 (23) 13:00 (10) 47:22
22 Peter McGuicken    33:06 (21) 14:30 (19) 47:36
23 Karl King          32:10 (20) 15:40 (24) 47:50
24 Tom Mitchell       34:54 (24) 13:40 (14) 48:34
25 Kevin Allen        35:55 (25) 15:57 (25) 51:52
-- Mike Lyons         DNF (puncture)

Timkeepers: Thomas O'Hagan, Stephen McWilliams, Aisling Trainor and Peter (qubtri)

Drumbo Hill Climb (24th May 2011)

2011-05-24T21:55:00.010+01:00

The Drumbo Hill climbs for 2.1 miles from the Homestead. This year the climb was double trouble with the riders starting their second climb exactly 30 mins after their first start.

All times were very consistent with some negative splits. Forget fancy bikes, those that could clip-in first time going uphill were off to a good start. This is different from jumping the starters countdown which a certain person was guilty of. A super-injunction has been taken out to protect this rider but I'm sure we will all know who it is before next Tuesday.

Best excuse of the night, could it be Ed's puncture or Clifford's rubbing back brake? Well, spare a thought for Vaughan who, first to head out, encountered a road full of dairy cows crossing fields (on the steepest part of the hill as well).

On the fashion side Ali was sporting a new top she bought with a winners voucher from last years TT awards night. Guest rider Mike Millar obviously dresses "always prepared to cycle" because he appeared to have his full cycling gear on under his clothes despite initially turning up to spectate! Eamon was not wearing his white calfy things this week.

Spice Girls


1 Judith         08:40 08:51 17:31
2 Alison         09:46 09:59 19:45
3 Angela         10:27 10:24 20:51
4 Aisling        10:52 11:00 21:52

Spice Boyz

          
1 Paul Carroll   07:33 07:30 15:03
2 Mike Millar    07:37 07:35 15:12
3 Michael L      07:43 07:47 15:30
4 Vaughan        07:47 07:46 15:33
4 Stephen McW    07:45 07:48 15:33
6 Enda           08:03 08:00 16:03
7 Eamon          08:21 08:18 16:39
8 Neville        08:16 08:24 16:40
9 Niall McI      08:37 08:31 17:08
10 Shane         09:02 08:57 17:59
11 Thomas O'H    09:03 09:04 18:07
12 Paul Trainor  09:01 09:44 18:45
13 Peter McG     09:28 09:30 18:58
14 Karl          12:01 10:38 22:39
15 Ed            09:51 DNF 
16 Clifford      11:46 DNF

Timekeepers: Desi, David M, Emma and Kieran McV

Killynure - League Race #6 (17th May 2011)

2011-05-18T00:05:00.006+01:00

The Killynure TT marked the halfway point of the league. Conditions were dry with a moderate crosswind.

Gareth selfishly entertained the ladies while they waited on the start ramp by teasing them with glimpses of his ripped torso. Or so they at least imagined since the ripped torso was hidden under under a mat of shaggy hair.

After the bursleque was out of the way the TT started off proper. In the girls league Lowry stormed to another victory and Bingham made a very good return in 3rd place after being away for a few weeks.

In the boys league Enda took the comeback special King role and the honours. Two other fast improving notables were Michael Lyons and Kieran McVeigh both who have been moving steadily though the positions each week.

Next week is a hill climb at Drumbo. Please park at the car park by Drumbeg bridge. The format is starting from the Homestead, race to the top before returning to the Homestead at a leisurely pace. Then, exactly 30 mins after your first start you do the climb again. The two climb times will be combined to give a total. Confused; you will be!

Results

Chicks


1 Judith      23.08
2 Emma        24.46
3 Joanne      25.11
4 Angela      25.21
5 Heather     25.5
6 Aisling     26.05
7 Claire      27.05

Dudes


1 Enda         20.13
2 Stephen McW  20.2
3 Vaughan      20.28
4 Matt         20.56
5 Michael      21.09
6 Neville      21.3
7 Kieran       22.03
8 David M      22.08
9 Johnny F     22.24
10 Niall       22.4
11 Dave L      22.44
12 Colm        22.46
13 Johnny B    22.49
14 Glen        22.5
15 Wes         22.51
16 Desi        23.11
17 Shane       23.13
18 Davy C      23.17
19 Niall M     23.19
20 Paul T      23.51
21 Thomas O'H  23.54
22 Gareth      24.14
23 Karl        24.22
24 Ed          24.33
25 Willie      24.58
26 Andrew      25.36
27 Peter K     27.02
28 Patrick     29.11

Timekeepers: Clifford, Eamon, Paul C and Ella.

Temple - Saintfield League Race #5 (10th May 2011)

2011-05-10T23:47:00.009+01:00

A big turnout at Temple garage for the fifth league race of the season. The conditions were not bad and it stayed dry with a mild headwind.

The previous course record of 26.39 set by Paul Carroll last year fell to Stephen McWilliams.

Fashion risk of the night must go to Eamon Hill for daring to wear white calf warmer "things". It was remarked upon how the white set his leg tan off nicely.

There was no surprise to see Edward Smith post a respectable time for a 60 year old grandad. In Edward's own words from Monday night's Belfast Telegraph: "I would say I'm quite to very fit"! Obviously Edward was misquoted and wanted to say "I am well fit" [read with a Catherine Tate voice]. There does seem extra room for improvement in the TT if the great coach could only control his libido.

Controversy flared after the TT over alleged drafting by Bill Rafferty. Riders are reminded that this year the draft zone is now 10 metres. Bill remained silent and would not comment without his lawyer present.

Many people seemed to leave quite quickly after they had finished. Was this due to a rush home to watch episode 1 of the Apprentice or has McHenry delivered one too many oratories?

Too many excellent performances to mention so that wraps that; you know who you are.

Notice: The QUB Lake swims start this Sunday.


1 Emma             32.5
2 Teresa           33.25
3 Heather          34.01
4 Maeve            34.1
5 Angela           34.14
6 Aisling          34.48
7 Caroline         35.14
8 Ann              35.37
9 Patricia         42.1
  
1 Stephen McW      26.12
2 Eamon            26.31
3 Paul C           26.38
4 Vaughan          27
5 Hooperman        27.08
6 Enda             27.21
7 Neville          27.47
8 Matt             27.58
9 Michael L        28.27
10 Clifford        28.51
11 Adam            29.1
12 Desi            29.2
13 David           29.4
14 Bill            29.44
15 Kieran          30.1
16 Niall           30.1
17 Johnny the Fox  30.17
18 Davy C          31.1
19 Jon             31.11
20 Glen            31.13
21 Shane           31.34
22 Johnny B        31.44
23 Karl            31.52
24 Greg            31.53
25 Gareth          31.58
26 Brian Lakemidge 32.17
27 Ed              32.49
28 Peter           33.12
29 Kevin           37.29
30 Patrick         39.59

Timekeepers: Tom and Garett

Carryduff - Ballygowan League Race #4 (3rd May 2011)

2011-05-03T22:25:00.005+01:00

The sign on area around the picnic table could have been easily mistaken for a zoo enclosure full of struting duck-billed platypuses. Indeed, it was the night for the pointy aero helmet.

Top girl was Lowry who arrived early for the first time ever although there was no time bonus awarded for that. Behind Lowry, only 30 secounds separated Bamford Junior, McConnell and Savage.

Most dehyrated award of the night went to Neville O'Neill who apparently cramped in his car on the way up to the TT.

Welcome back to Glen Pollock after a knee-op who has been doing alot of time keeping and was able to take part tonight.

As you know there is a BBQ planned for the 21st June. Please have a think about if you are intending to go as the organisers will be asking for numbers in the next week or two. Partners are welcome.

Results

Duchesses


1 Judith Lowry     33.17
2 Emma Bamford     35
3 Ali McConnell    35.22
4 Maeve Savage     35.3
5 Heather Bamford  36.25
6 Aisling Trainor  36.59
7 Anne Duffy       37.51
8 Patricia Quinn   46.2
- Claire Burns dnf

Dukes

  
1 Eamon Hill          28.42
2 Vaughan Purnell     28.45
3 Enda Marron         29.09
4 Matt Allum          29.4
5 Michael Lyons       30.23
6 Colm Hanratty       30.3
7 Thomas Leitch       30.43
8 Adam Heamford       31.31
9 Desi McHenry        31.33
10 David Morrisey     31.41
11 Clifford Rodgers   31.43
12 Tony McNulty       31.45
13 Johnny the Fox     32.07
14 Eoin Bradley       32.1
15 Bill Rafferty      32.35
16 Niall Magee        32.37
17 Glen Pollock       32.41
18 Johnny Boylan      32.45
19 Kieran McVeigh     33.07
20 Niall Mc?????      33.19
21 Garrett            34.16
22 Alan               34.59
23 Ed Smith           35.18
23 Dave Lonnen        35.18
25 Brian Laughalot    35.59
26 Peter McGuicken    36.41
27 Kevin Allen        39.25
- Neville O'Neill dnf

Thanks to Timekeepers: Jon, Karl and Angela

Killynure - BRICK (26th April 2011)

2011-04-26T23:35:00.004+01:00

This training session comprises the straight out and back Killynure bike course followed by a 2 mile run off the bike. The run takes in most of the first hill on the Killynure Road; the turn point convienently marked by a calor LPG butane cyclinder.

The riders went off in one minute intervals on a coolish dry evening.

Mechanical of the night went to Karl who leaned too heavily on his aero bars [one too many Easter Eggs?] making them loose and causing him to record a DNF.

Rising star Angela Burns produced a strong run to come home 1st girl and 9th overall. Angela is one of many who have been improving their running this year by taking part in the popular Park Run 5Ks.

Also of note is David Morrisey who took over 1 minute off his Killynure bike time of 2 weeks ago.

With all these good performances it is perhaps no wonder people are complaining about how tight their aero helmets are becoming!

Results (boys and girls together this week)

Overall-pos Name Bike Bike-pos Run Run-pos Total-time


1 Vaughan    20:29 1  12:36 2  33:05
2 Johnny B   23:32 7  12:13 1  35:45
3 Conor      23:15 4  12:40 3  35:55
4 Colm       23:03 2  13:08 6  36:11
5 Bill       23:10 3  13:08 7  36:18
6 Ciaran H   24:26 10 12:57 4  37:23
7 Alan       23:55 8  13:43 9  37:38
8 Kieran McV 23:27 6  14:13 12 37:40
9 Angela     25:03 13 13:04 5  38:07
10 Peter McG 24:31 11 14:18 13 38:49
11 Garret    24:50 12 14:01 11 38:51
12 David M   23:22 5  15:32 15 38:54
13 Andrew    25:51 16 13:29 8  39:20
14 Ed        25:45 15 13:43 10 39:28
15 Gareth    24:14 9  15:54 16 40:08
16 Alison    25:03 14 15:27 14 40:30
17 Ann       28:27 17 16:55 17 45:22
 Karl DNF

Thanks the to time keepers Matt, Desi, Dave, Judith and Wes.

Carryduff - 2UP (19th April 2011)

2011-04-19T22:17:00.009+01:00

The randomly drawn pairing of Kettyle and Lyons proved unbeatable in the first 2UP of the season. How these two top cyclists ended up in different halves of the draw in the first place is under investigation.

Despite going on 1 minute intervals there were plenty of battles along the course as riders caught one and another. Most pairs remained together and danced a light fandango down the Comber Road on what was a pleasant evening weatherwise.

All smiles for the camera before the partner pairing draw.

Eamon Hill of Olympia helping out Breda before the race.

Do not adjust your monitor contrast; ginger is this year's red.

Thanks to everyone for competing in the right spirit and making the night enjoyable. Commiserations to Shane for pairing with European Duathlon Age Group winner Paul Carroll. For his reward Shane will now be able to live the dream and eat as many Jaffa Cakes as he wants.

Results

1 Wes & Michael L 30.01 (prize winners)
2 Paul & Shane 30.53 (prize winners)
3 Vaughan & Eddie 31.27
4 Colm & Willie 31.31
5 Neville & Garrett 32.02
6 Johnny the Fox & Emma 32.24
7 Bernard & Hooperman 32.28
8 Matt & Teresa 32.58
9 Jon & Andrew 33.12
10 Clifford & Ali 34.02
11 Desi & Anne 34.03
12 Tony & Angela 34.51
13 Aisling & Claire 36.4
14 Brian Steepridge & Breda 38.36
15 Enda & Paddy 40.49
16 Eamon & Marty DNF

Timekeepers: Maeve Savage, Glen Pollock, Niall Magee and London marathon finisher Ed Smith (3:55).

Killynure - League Race #3 (12th April 2011)

2011-04-12T21:30:00.010+01:00

"I have noticed that the people who are late are often so much jollier than the people who have to wait for them." - Edward Verrall Lucas

The spectre of the Killynure Hills was almost overshadowed by the late start and kicked off some out-of-character tardiness rhetoric from World Champion McHenry. The organisers have decided that from now on 6:30 will be the cut off for sign-on.

Over at the Carryduff layby Glen was seen prising a crisp £20 note from Enda's mitten. Good to see Enda is now fully committed to the league. Don't worry, Enda does not look at this site so he will not be offended :)

A few faces from last year made their season debut this week. Welcome back. It is good to see so many of the girls taking part. Up at the front we have Judith Lowry and Alison McConnell but watch out for the fast improving Angela Burns this season.

There were some winners, losers and hard luck stories in the male race. Last weeks winner Stephen McWilliams got stuck behind a silver car out to the turn which stopped his chances of having a go at Paul Carroll. Also, the dreadlocked wonderboy Allum scored a victory over rival Enda (obviously not having a good night).

I won't mention the stop-watch incident near the end. Let's just say we have two stop watches which can be left hanging around the neck if one's hands must be put into warm jacket pockets!

Please do not be put off by the 2UP next week. It is fun and if you are paired with someone better than you it is a good learning experience and you will get to draft. As an incentive there will prizes for first and second places awarded on the night.

Senoritas

1 Judith Lowry 23:12
2 Alison McConnell 24:55
3 Emma Bamford 25:20
4 Maeve Savage 25:25
5 Angela Burns 26:18
6 Caroline Cullen 26:56
7 Anne Duffy 27:00
8 Aisling Trainer 27:23
9 Kate Finn 27:37
10 Claire Burns 28:04

los Senores

1 Paul Carroll 18:28
2 Matt Allum 20:18
3 Vaughan Purnell 20:20
4 Enda Marron 20:34
5 Eamon Hill 20:38
6 Stephen McWilliams 21:10
7 Desi McHenry 21:28
8 Neville O'Neill 22:00
9 Johnny The Fox 22:53
10 Stephen McKeown 22:57
11 Clifford Rodgers 23:12
12 Kieran McVeigh 23:17
13 Jon Reilly 23:26
14 Peter Morrison 23:43
15 Gareth Osborne 23:50
16 Gareth Corry 24:20
17 Marty Lennon 24:22
18 David Morrisey 24:27
19 Willie Noteman 24:43
20 Michael Lyons 24:58
21 Shane Quinn 25:30
22 Niall Magee 25:52
23 Carl King 26:28
24 Peter McGuckin 26:40
25 Thomas Ohagan 27:05
26 Johnny Boylan 27:14
27 Peter Keys 34:03
28 Kevin Allen 38:13

Temple - Saintfield League Race 2 (5th April 2011)

2011-04-06T10:20:00.006+01:00

Second race in and already the battle lines are being drawn on the TT Map. The "no nonsense" McHenry almost did not put his stake on the map at all when he missed the start not once but twice.

Stephen McWilliams on his bike built using US military stealth technology came close to Paul Carroll's last year course record which stands at 26.39. One would not bet on that record standing for long.

Vaughan's season got off to a flat start and left him feeling a bit deflated (and is now writing in the third person as a result). A puncture 3 miles in put an end to his night and put a few grins on some peoples faces; such a sporting bunch! Thanks to the man across the road for providing a pump.

For those who like a bit of stats now and again:
- 1948 views on this site in the last month
- 18% of these are from mobile devices
- "Maeve Cahill" is one of the most searched for keywords - creepy or what!
- 9 page views where from New Zealand. I guess Emma wants to see how her old training buddies are getting on. Hello Emma!

Next week is Killynure: please park at the Carryduff Layby.

1 Alison McConnell 33:38
2 Emma Bamford 34:16
3 Maeve Savage 35:05
4 Angela Burns 36:14
5 Anne Duffy 36:36
6 Heather Bamford 36:49
7 Caroline Cullen 37:50
8 Aisling Trainer 39:25
9 Joan Leonard 41:55

1 Stephen McWilliams 26:51
2 Enda Marron 27:32
3 Eamon Hill 27:58
4 Matt Allum 28:00
5 Desi McHenry 29:12
6 David Morrissey 29:50
7 Neville O'Neill 30:14
8 Michael Lyons 31:04
9 Davey Calvert 31:11
10 Wes Kettyle 31:22
11 Niall Magee 31:59
12 Niall McEnhill 32:12
13 Carl King 32:14
14 Bill Rafferty 32:28
15 Shane Quinn 32:50
16 Dave Lonnen 32:50
17 Garrett Green 32:52
18 Thomas Ohagan 32:52
19 Marty Lennon 33:40
20 Ed Smith 34:22
21 Tom Mitchell 35:04
22 Peter McGuckin 35:06
23 Andrew McMurray 36:14
24 Conal Cahill 36:20
25 Kevin Allen 39:15
DNF Vaughan Purnell DNF

Carryduff - Ballgowan League Race 1 (29th March 2011)

2011-03-30T12:02:00.004+01:00

Desi's Monday night pool side talk must have made an impact as there were an impressive number of people at sign-on before 6:15pm. This really helps so thank you to those people.

A cold and misty night did not deter a record turnout - almost 50 including the time keepers. There is a cap of around 50 people so these Tue night training events are essentially full (first-come-first-served).

A few points that people may not be aware of:
1) Shout your number loud and clearly when you cross the line; no-one is breaking the sound barrier so you will not lose any time.
2) Everyone shares the time keeping. Over the season you should only have to time keep twice. Don't be shy volunteering.
3) If it's ever a misty night again please use a rear light.

The first week is always a bit business like and we'll get to critiquing the clothes and bikes next week.

Female Results

1 Judith 33:50
2 Alison 36:00
3 Emma 36:36
4 Joanne 37:31
5 Heather 37:33
6 Teresa 38:42
7 Aisling 39:53
8 Anne Duffy 39:58
9 Angela 40:01
10 Clare 40:26
11 Caroline 43:28
12 Breda 46:14
13 Joan 48:19

Male Results

1 Paul 28:10
2 Stephen 29:05
3 Eamon 29:25
4 Enda 29:34
5 Matthew 29:58
6 Barry 31:40
7 David M 31:50
8 Ciffard 32:16
9 Colm 32:22
10 Pat 32:31
11 Neville 33:17
12 Desi 33:28
13 Noel 33:30
14 Michael 34:18
15 Bill 34:18
16 Wes 34:20
17 Gregg 34:25
18 B Lookback 34:35
19 Micheal 34:43
20 Johnny B 35:03
21 Ed 35:22
22 Shane 35:28
23 Niall McEnhill 35:32
24 Peter McGuckin 36:27
25 Niall Magee 36:52
26 Conall 37:39
27 Garrett 38:46
28 Dave Lonnen 39:24
29 Brian 40:19
30 Peter Keys 41:33

Timekeepers: Vaughan, Marty and Gareth

2011 season

2011-02-11T11:33:00.005Z

The TT League starts on the 29th March.

Please aim to turn up for 6:15pm on the first night to allow time for signing on.

Reminder: You must be a member of Triathlon Ireland to take part in training. Please show your TI card at sign-on.

Prize giving 2010

2010-09-05T23:11:00.013+01:00

Prize giving for the TT will take place in Harlequins on Friday October 15th at 7:30pm.

Food will be included free of charge for those who paid £20 at the start of the season. For anyone who wants to go but did not pay the £20 there will be a £5 charge for food on the night.

Please RSVP to vpurnell@hotmail.com if you intend to go. This is to help with the catering and prizes.

Confirmed List

Desi McHenry
Vaughan Purnell
Glen Pollock
Wes Kettyle
Heather Bamford
Emma Bamford
Neville O'Neill
Ali McConnell
Claire Burns
Michael Learnon
Maeve Cahill
John McManus
Emma Kerr
Colm Hanratty
Ciaran Hanratty
Ed Smith
Kate Smith
Clifford Rodgers
Davy Calvert
Kieran McVeigh
Johnny hooper
Conor reilly
Tony mcnulty
Brian Bridgelough
Ricky cowan
Jim Cooke
Paul Carrol
Marty Lennon
Karl King
Kevin McCormick
Jon Reilley
Aisleen Trainor
Johnny Davis
Maeve Savage
Gareth Martin
Joanne Bingham

Cannot Make It, With A Good Excuse

Willie Noteman
Judith Lowry
Dave Lonnen
Nial McGee

Drumbo Hill Climb - 30th August 2010

2010-09-02T17:01:00.003+01:00

The last TT of the season [collective sigh]. Well done to everyone who took part.

Prize giving is scheduled for the 15th October at Harlequins. Check back for more information as we will need to gather definite numbers.

Results

Ladies

1. Ali McConnell 9.39
2. Emma Kerr 9.56
3. Claire Burns 11.16

Men's

1. Paul Rafferty 7.24
2. Matt Allum 8.02
3. Neville O'Neill 8.06
4. Stephen McWilliams 8.07
5. Colm Hanratty 8.33
6. Michael McLernon 8.37
7. Johnny Davies 8.47
8. Clifford Rodgers 9.00
9. Connor Reilly 9.04
10. Kieran Hanratty 9.13
11. Davy Calvert 9.22
12. Andy French 9.53
13. Gareth Martin 10.10
14. Ricky Cowan 10.18
15. Dennis Rankin 12.15

Timekeeper: Dave Lennon

Carryduff - Ballygowan Bike Run (17th August 2010)

2010-08-18T17:34:00.003+01:00

First of all, a warm welcome back to Emma Kerr, fresh from her first Ironman race in Germany last month. Emma has been working in Stroke City these past few months and is now back practising dentistry in civilisation.

Before I dissect the results further, there are a few competitors who deserve a mention. Davy Calvert arrived with his runner’s in his three years-old daughters rucksack. This was a rather eye-catching pink polka dot ‘Peppa Pig’ design that matched Davy’s pink cycle-jersey. Davy informed me that he likes to wear pink and I’m sure you will agree that it suits him. I think he is angling to get into the ladies league and considering the results he has been posting recently, I don’t blame him.

Jim Cooke once again managed to make the headlines as he slipped on the wrong runner’s in transition and completed the run in Niall Magee’s trainers. He informed me afterwards that they felt a little tight but he persevered. However, Niall posted a DNF and gallantly declared that it was his lack of BRICK session’s that made him suffer and not Jim’s rancid trainer’s.

Performance of the night goes to Judith Lowry, with a highly impressive second fastest run overall behind the ever impressive Paul Carroll. On Monday evening I drove past Judith as she was on a training run and the rain was bouncing off the pavement. Hardcore. Lesson for us all here - if you want to beat your rivals, take a leaf out of Judith’s book and get out there regardless of the elements.

With the triathlon season now extended until Sunday 19th September with the Portaferry race making a welcome return, there appears to be an appetite for the TT’s to continue until 14th September. Desi, Vaughan, Wes and I will discuss if this is possible, taking into consideration the evenings drawing in and allowing sufficient time to get home before it is dark.

Thanks to John McManus, Connor Reilly, Claire Burns and the ever present Dave Lonnen for timekeeping.

Finally, please remember to support our sponsors, Decathlon and Lease Options for their continued support.

Glen

Ladies race: Bike Time / Finish Time

Judith Lowry 33.18 / 45.32
Emma Kerr 35.05 / 49.12
Ali McConnell 35.00 / 49.51
Heather Bamford 35.34 / 51.11
Aisling Trainor 36.56 / 52.46
Anne Mageean 40.00 / 56.57

Gent’s race: Bike Time / Finish Time

1. Paul Carroll 28.15 / 39.20
2. Stephen McWilliams 29.30 / 43.35
3. Neville O’Neill 30.47 / 43.52
4. Johnny Hooper 32.21 / 44.22
5. Oscar Monroe 32.21 / 44.57

6. Glen Pollock 31.46 / 45.58
7. Jim Cooke 32.48 / 46.20
8. Bill Rafferty 32.55 / 46.32
9. Davy Calvert 31.55 / 46.55
10. Stephen Smart 35.45 / 48.38
11. Gareth Martin 32.03 / 49.03
12. Carl King 33.30 / 50.28
13. Jon Reilly 34.52 / 51.50
14. Desi McHenry 30.30 / -
15. David Morrissey 31.04 / -
16. Wes Kettyle 32.23 / -
17. Niall Magee 32.40 / (DNF due to Jim Cooke)

Temple, Saintfield 2 Laps (10 August 2010)

2010-08-10T21:41:00.003+01:00

The sun was out tonight and so where some 28 riders for twice round the Temple - Saintfield route. Great to see first timer Matthew Allum perform so well with a flyer of a first lap and a second lap to match clinching him third place, even if he didn't know where the finish was!
Welcome back to Emma Kerr who finished second women clearly her time in Derry hasn't affected her performance on the bike.

Well done to all 28 riders good to see you all still recording good times coming towards the end of the season. Next week its a bike run in Carryduff so don't forget your trainers!

N.B. First time listed is the first lap split and the second time is the overall time for your second lap time minus the first lap split from your finishing time.

Results:

1 Paul Carroll 27:00 | 54:28
2 Stephen McWilliams 28:00 | 56:43
3 Matthew Allum 28:23 | 58:14
4 John McManus 28:30 | 58:35
5 Colm Hanratty 29:15 | 59:43

6 Neville O'Neill 29:04 | 60:19
7 Clifford Rodgers 29:42 | 60:43
8 Jim Cooke 29:45 | 60:57
9 Tony McNulty 30:05 | 60:59
10 Wes Kettyle 30:35 | 62:26
11 Nial Magee 31:14 | 63:45
12 Gareth Martin 31:01 | 64:17
13 Connor Reilly 31:59 | 64:47
14 Kieran Hanratty 31:43 | 64:56
15 Kieran McVeigh 33:24 | 66:13
16 Michael McLernon 31:52 | 66:35
17 Judith Lawry 32:30 | 66:54
18 Peter McGuckin 33:26 | 67:22
19 Emma Kerr 32:52 | 67:46
20 Ed Smith 34:02 | 68.16
21 John Reilly 32:42 | 68:42
22 Karl King 33:22 | 69:00
23 Ricky Cowan 34:10 | 69.17
24 Willie Noltman 33:12 | 69.56
25 Stephen Smart 33:53 | 70:28
26 Maeve Cahill 35:00 | 72:50
27 Clare Burns 36:30 | 75:59
DNF. Anne Magean 38:05 | DNF

Thanks to time keepers Dave, Marty and Kate (Me) - There where some tricky calculations to be done tonight!

Killynure Road League Race 12 (3rd August 2010)

2010-08-04T09:30:00.006+01:00

Those of you logging in to read the usual well thought out and entertaining comments of Mr Vaughan Purnell will be disappointed, Vaughan is stateside having the holiday of a lifetime so this week its just results.

Congratulations to Paul Carroll and Emma Bamford our men's and ladies race winners.

Results

1 Paul Carroll 19.17
2 Stephen McWilliams 20.21
3 John McManus 20:54
4 Clifford Rodgers 21.56
5 Niall Magee 22:13

6 Jonny Hooper 22.15
7 Wes Kettyle 22.24
8 Davy Calvert 22.35
9 Connor Reilly 23.11
10 Kieran McVeigh 23.26
11 Michael Harkin 23.29
12 Ricky Cowan 23.35
13 Ed Smith 23:43
14 Peter McGuickan 24.12
15 Emma Bamford 24.17
16 Heather Bamford 24.33
17 Ali McConnell 24.42
18 Emma Sharkey 24.43
19 Stephen Smart 24.57
20 Aisling Trainor 26.26
21 Kate Finn 27.14
22 Anne Mageean 29.06

Thanks to the time keepers: Dave, Judith, Maeve and Willie

Temple League Race#11 (27th July 2010)

2010-07-27T21:36:00.007+01:00

The sun was out and so too were the ladies for a record number of the fairer sex were out in force. Disappointing for the ladies the usual eye candy of Jim Cooke in his ripped shorts was absent, but that did not stop the girls fighting it out. Judith Lowry in recent weeks has become the one to beat with Bamford Junior and McConnell less than 20 seconds behind.

Another great performance from Paul Carroll who shattered his own course record despite the headwind all the way from Saintfield. It is great to have someone like Paul who puts the rest of the times into perspective and gives people something to aim for.

The McHenry / Pollock battle came to a head tonight with both of them clocking the exact same time. Wise sage McHenry was heard afterwards quoting "train together, race together".

The latest in TT results display technology also made a first appearance tonight. At the end of the race all the rider times were quickly uploaded and displayed in a big clear font. Professor Smartt of Queen's University was on hand to oversee the process and ensure everything went smoothly.

Gareth Turnbull, of hybrid bike fame, turned up tonight on a fancy road bike much to dismay of a few of the riders. There seems to a lot of GAS (Gear Acquisition Syndrome) about at the minute.

The "Lost on the roads award" tonight went to Michael McLearnon. To be fair to Michael his mind is probably now on more important matters like his recent engagement to Ms Burns. Romance definitely seems the story of recent weeks!

Results

1 Paul Carroll 26.39
2 Vaughan Purnell 27.5
3 Neville O'Neill 29.22
4 Desi McHenry 29.39
- Glen Pollock 29.39
6 Colm Hanratty 29.52
7 Stephen McWilliams 30.01
8 David Morrisey 30.36
9 Wes Kettyle 30.43
10 Johnny Hooper 30.54
11 Ciaran Hanratty 31.43
12 Bill Rafferty 31.45
13 Judith Lowry 32.17
14 Peter McGuicken 32.19
15 Clifford Rogers 32.26
16 Gareth Martin 32.3
17 Emma Bamford 32.35
18 Ricky Cowan 32.45
19 Ed Smith 32.46
20 Alison McConnell 32.53
21 Aishling Trainor 32.54
22 Willie Noteman 33.06
23 Maeve Cathal 33.13
24 Heather Bamford 34.56
25 Andy French 35.05
26 Ciara Fitzpatrick 35.26
27 Claire Burns 35.5
28 Steven McKay 38.22
29 Anne Maeen 39.15
30 Michael McLernon dnf

Thanks to time keepers: Ironman McManus, Conor and Steven Smartt.

Carryduff League Race#10 (20th July 2010)

2010-07-21T11:46:00.003+01:00

The sun was shining, the birds were singing and Desi was admiring the new flower bed close to the start line, as 21 men and 7 ladies assembled at the recently spruced up Carryduff lay-by. The picnic benches proved useful as a registration point and for propping up all the racing steeds. However, the tranquillity was short-lived as Jim Cooke arrived, with his butt showing through his cycle-shorts.

A warm welcome to the first timers, Anne Maageean (Chairman of Olympian Triathlon Club, which is celebrating 25 years in existence – the oldest club in Ireland), Ciara Fitzpatrick and Aisling Trainor (who both have recently joined Olympian. Ciara signed the Disclaimer, muttering that it didn’t mean anything, as I confidently informed her that she couldn’t sue us if she had an accident. I later found out she is a barrister.

In the ladies race Ali McConnell was knocked of her customary number one spot by Judith Lowry by a mere 11 seconds. Congratulations to Ali for winning the vets triathlon race at Lake Muckno, Castleblayney at the weekend.

Neville O’Neill put in an impressive performance to finish only 47 seconds behind the unbeatable Paul Carroll. With Emma, his girlfriend time keeping, he was out to impress. Desi managed the podium once again due to taking it easy on last Sunday’s 60 mile bike ride and allowing Jonny Hooper and I to race each other up every hill that Wes could find.

Stephen Smart must also get a mention as he was delighted with his performance, boasting to me that he passed two girls. Well done Stevie, with your finish time you would have finished 3rd in the Ladies race.

Thanks to Emma Bamford (impressed) and Dave Lonnen (once again) for timekeeping.

Finally, please remember to support our sponsors, Decathlon and Lease Options for their continued support,

Glen

1. Judith Lowry 33.40
2. Ali McConnell 33.51
3. Heather Bamford 35.06
4. Ciara Fitzpatrick 36.46
5. Claire Burns 38.18
6. Aisling Trainor 38.25
7. Anne Mageean 40.37

1. Paul Carroll 28.50
2. Neville O’Neill 29.37
3. Desi McHenry 30.11
4. Jim Cooke 30.59
5. Jonny Hooper 31.08
6. Colm Hanratty 31.15
7. Clifford Rogers 31.33
8. Eddie Kearney 31.35
9. Glen Pollock 31.43
10. Davy Calvert 32.13
11. Wes Kettyle 32.19
12. Gareth Martin 32.27
13. Connor Reilly 33.10
14. Jon Reilly 33.24
15. Kieran McVeigh 33.34
16. Ciaran Hanratty 33.53
17. Michael McLernon 33.55
18. Peter McGuicken 34.06
19. Ricky Cowan 34.37
20. Stephen Smart 35.04
21. Willie Noteman 35.14

Ballynahinch 10K (13th July 2010)

2010-07-14T11:56:00.001+01:00

With Vaughan taking a well earned rest from editorial duties this week, many of us can breathe a sigh of relief that we won’t have to endure his chastening remarks, which ranged from our cycling attire to how badly we are cycling. However, I will attempt to uphold this fine tradition as I comment on the first Ballynahinch to Carryduff race of the season.

Conditions were dry and blustery as only ten racers turned out for this 10k undulating sprint. I made the mistake of arranging to meet Tony at Forestside shopping centre as he cycled down from the North Belfast. He eventually turned up at 1820 and our time trial race started from here, if we were to make the start line on time. As we hammered it towards Ballynahinch the race was well under way; no excuses this week for starting cold.

In the ladies race Ali McConnell once again proved unbeatable and the yellow jersey looks safe with her until the end of the season. The head wind Ali was muttering about was in fact a cross-wind but it was still hard going. Emma showed her mum, Heather, how to ride a bike by finishing nearly a minute ahead of her.

Paul Carroll had no competition as Enda and Vaughan were absent, with the ever improving Desi coming in second and Tony (who was tired after a night of recreational rioting), coming in third.

Thanks to Clifford and Dave Lennon for timekeeping.

Glen

1. Alison McConnell 18.31
2. Emma Bamford 19.20
3. Heather Bamford 20.25

1. Paul Carroll 15.43
2. Desi McHenry 17.00
3. Tony McNulty 17.14
4. Glen Pollock 17.37
5. Davy Calvert 18.04
6. Michael Harkin 19.02
7. Ricky Cowan 19.36

Carryduff Handicap (6th July 2010)

2010-07-06T21:50:00.002+01:00

The second handicap of the year and this time the rider to cross the line first would be the winner. The "on vacation" McHenry, and master of knowing his competitors limits, had carefully prepared handicap times in a sealed brown envelope which was only opened before the race. With a range of 10.5 minutes from first to last, most accepted their fate with the occasional "Is he having a laugh!" comment.

Clifford Rogers and David Morrisey both started at the same time but over the course Rogers proved the stronger to take overall first with David second. Making up a long overdue place on the podium was Edward Smith with a very competitive time.

It all proved a mite too much for Enda who admitted he blew a gasket early on trying to catchup from the back of the grid. At least Enda was not involved in the (illegal) 6 man peleton which formed for a part of the course. Self titled draft buster boy Damien bottled out of issuing any on the spot "lift your bike up" time penalties.

Results

1 Clifford Rogers (31.26)
2 Dave Morrisey (31.34)
3 Ed Smith (33.27)
4 Gareth Martin (32.54)
5 Ricky Cowan (34.25)
6 Kieran McVeigh (33.50)
7 Michael Harkin (34.02)
8 Kate Smith (38.50)
9 Neville O'Neill (31.11)
10 Davy Calvert (33.21)
11 Peter McGuicken (35.06)
12 Enda Marron (44.32)

Thanks to time keepers Vaughan, Dave, Damien and Hooperman

Temple Bike&Run (29th June 2010)

2010-06-29T20:55:00.005+01:00

The first ever Temple Bike&Run comprised of the normal Temple TT course followed by a run. The run was measured somewhere between 1.77 and 2 miles and made for a great triathlon training session. Many found themselves fighting off cramp at the start of the run and starting out with helmets and jackets still on. However nobody put on anybody else's running shoes which was the main thing.

Johnny Hooper finished in a strong second place to Paul Carroll despite his chain jumping off. Good to see the "Hooperman" back wearing the aero helmet. What was up with the dirty hand prints on his shorts though?

The good thing about the TTs each week are the battles that happen throughout the field. Tonight it was Ciaran Hanratty who came out top with a pretty big win over Kieran McVeigh.

The master of the timed warmup, where you arrive at the start with seconds to spare, must be Stephen McWilliams. McWilliams just now needs to fine tune the tying of his shoelaces and he will be one to watch.

Results

1 Paul Carroll 37.33
2 Johnny Hooper 39.26
3 Neville O'Neill 40.16
4 Colm Hanratty 42.03
5 Eddie Kierney 42.24
6 Stephen McWilliams 42.32
7 Clifford Rogers 43.21
8 Ciaran Hanratty 43.28
9 Connor Reilly 43.49
10 Kieran McVeigh 44.44
11 Ed Smith 45.33
12 Gareth Martin 45.5
13 Michael Harrin 45.53
14 Ricky Cowan 47.49
15 Emma Bamford 50.3
16 Kate Smith 53.1
17 David Morrisey 55.06
-- Peter McGuicken dnf
-- Willie Noteman dnf

Thanks as always to this weeks time keepers: Dave, Alison and Vaughan

Carryduff - League Race #9 (22nd June 2010)

2010-06-22T20:49:00.002+01:00

First up apologies to Enda Marron who was announced as coming in second place. How did we we doubt him? An error with the time offsets resulted in the last few people on the time-sheet being 30 seconds *slower* than thought. The impact of this was that Enda narrowly beat Paul and Wes hammered the tri-suited Phil Boyd.

It was good to see Dave Lonnen giving up the time keeping and taking part in his first TT of the year. Also making their debut in 2010 was "monster" cyclist Maeve Savage who was third lady home.

The mechanical this week went to Glen Pollock with a broken spoke in the rear wheel after just 3 miles.

Welcome back Kate. Kate was fresh back from honeymooning and maybe looking a little too fresh at the end. Kate gets a pass just for this week.

Finally there were silently voiced reports of drafting happening on the course! This will need monitored and guilty culprits named and shamed at the prize giving. Hopefully no sporting heroes reputations will be ruined.

Results

1 Enda Marron 28.26
2 Paul Carroll 28.42
3 John McManus 29.48
4 Neville O'Neill 30.22
5 Desi McHenry 30.31
6 Dave Lonnen 31.23
7 Jim Cooke 31.5
8 Stephen McWilliams 31.56
9 Wes Kettyle 32
10 PJ McQuillan 32.01
11 Colm Hanratty 32.13
12 Clifford Rogers 32.17
13 Davy Calvert 32.2
14 Johnny Hooper 32.22
15 Bernard Mulvihill 32.24
16 Phil Boyd 33
17 Kevin McCormick 33.36
18 Karl King 33.42
19 Peter McGuicken 33.48
20 Ed Smith 34.06
21 Alison McConnell 34.11
22 Ciaran Hanratty 34.18
23 Judith Lowry 34.29
24 Maeve Savage 34.39
25 Ricky Cowan 34.42
26 Michael McLernon 34.46
27 Connor Reilly 35.07
28 Joanne Bingham 36.11
29 Heather Bamford 36.17
30 Kate Smith 38.28
31 Claire Burns 39.18
-- Glen Pollock DNF

Timekeepers: Vaughan and David Morrisey

Road works

2010-06-17T09:45:00.001+01:00

The course for the TT on the 22nd June has been changed to Carryduff.

This is due to loose gravel and road works on Killynure.

The changed course will still count as a league race.

See you all there for 6:45 start at the layby. Pass the word around.

Temple Garage - League Race #8 (15th June 2010)

2010-06-15T21:21:00.001+01:00

Good weather conditions created some close and fast times. Worthy of mention is Olympian triathlete Ali McConnell who dug deep and earned herself a PB.

Gareth Martin finally got the aero bars on his hybrid bike and took about 4 minutes off his last Temple TT time. It sounds like the bars will be staying.

The biggest mistake of the night was made by Jim Cooke turning up without a helmet. Luckily he was able to borrow a helmet and even luckier his head was able to squeeze into it!

"Slippery eel" award of the night went to Ricky Cowen OBE (On Bike Every-week) who got out of time keeping once again. I suppose if one turns up in ones battle gear then one is probably expecting to race, isn't one?

Results

1 Enda Marron 27.01
2 Paul Carroll 27.06
3 John McManus 28.16
4 Stephen McWilliams 29.24
5 Desi McHenry 29.47
6 Glen Pollock 30.13
7 Colm Hanratty 30.17
8 Johnny Hooper 30.23
9 Bill Rafferty 30.3
10 Jim Cooke 30.34
11 Clifford Rogers 30.42
12 David Morrisey 30.42
13 Davy Calvert 31.02
14 Gareth Martin 31.22
15 Kevin McCormick 31.24
16 Karl King 32.15
17 Kieran McVeigh 32.26
18 Jon Reilly 32.35
19 Ed Smith 32.43
20 Ciaran Hanratty 32.46
21 Alison McConnell 33
22 Ricky Cowan 33.01
23 Willie Noteman 33.43
24 Stephen Smart 34.02
25 Heather Bamford 34.54

Timekeeping: Dave and Neville

Carryduff - League Race #7 (8th June 2010)

2010-06-08T20:55:00.003+01:00

It was hit and miss if the TT would run or not because of the forecast of heavy rain. The organisers held firm, calling the Rain God's bluff, and got away with a damp night with a bit of headwind between Saintfield and Ballygowan.

Glen Pollock tried without success to beat Ironman McHenry (again) but neither of them noticed the new-and-improved Neville O'Neill sneak past to take the third spot. This could just be the confidence boosting result that O'Neill has been looking for!

A loose aero bar laid McManus's plans of glory to waste. Limping in at the end he was given plenty of mechanical solutions including double sided sticky tape and fast drying cement.

Disclaimer: No use of timing chip technology was used in producing the following results.

1 Enda Marron 29.21
2 Vaughan Purnell 29.32
3 Neville O'Neill 31.45
4 Desi McHenry 31.56
5 Glen Pollock 32.02
6 Johnny Hooper 32.42
7 Bill Rafferty 32.48
8 Bernard Mulvihill 33.3
9 David Morrisey 33.41
10 Alison McConnell 34.51
11 John McManus 35.31
12 Karl King 35.38
13 Ricky Cowan 35.38
14 Heather Bamford 37.06

Thanks to the timekeepers Paul and PJ.

Carryduff 2UP (1st June 2010)

2010-06-01T21:11:00.003+01:00

The first 2UP of the year and a lovely June evening to boot. Teams were selected at random with faster riders deliberately paired with slower riders. The only rule is that both riders must finish together.

There must have been happy sunbeams raining down from the sky because there were no groans of displeasure at the pairings, all teams finished with the same riders as they started with and there were no big blow out arguments! With new friendships forged along the road 2UPs get no more beautiful.

It is the same course next week (without the niceties). Will the slower riders match their 2UP time?

Results

1 Enda & PJ 29.4
2 Desi & Phil B 29.49
3 Paul & Colm 30.27
4 Glen & Jon R 31.07
5 Stephen & Davy C 31.31
6 Bernard & Ricky 31.39
7 Vaughan & Karl 31.41
8 John McMan & Kieran McV 31.54
9 Neville & Brian Lockkeepers 31.56
10 Wes & Emma B 32.05
11 Kevin & David 33.32
12 Jim & Garth 35.1
13 Bill & Claire 35.5

Thanks to timekeepers: Judith, Dave and Tony

Photos from Temple 25th May 2010

2010-05-31T12:30:00.001+01:00

Some photos.

Temple Hanicap (25th May 2010)

Temple Handicap (25th May 2010)

2010-05-25T22:02:00.003+01:00

Quite a pleasant evening saw 26 riders turn up at Temple. So far 60 people have taken part in the 2010 TT series. The thing about handicap races is there are quite a few time calculations that have to happen. The first is the random assignment of the actual handicap time penalties. Those who placed highly this week have obviously learned the importance of passing the "brown envelope" to Desi. The other calculation is subtracting the start offset and handicap from the stop watch time. Should not be a problem for an ex-School Teacher! Anyway, an impressive 5 column paper sheet taped to a big board was eventually populated with numbers and it transpired that Bill Rafferty found himself top of the charts.

Lost (don't mention the TV show - there's 6 years you can't get back) soul of the week goes to Clifford Rodgers who took the wrong road, turning before the Ballygowan roundabout onto Middle Road. Critics of Rodgers suggested after that he may have been going for the (illegal) shortcut turn before the roundabout but turned left too early by 20 metres.

Results

1 Bill Rafferty 25.32
2 Phil Boyd 25.36
3 Ricky Cowan 25.41
4 Karl King 25.43
5 Gareth Martin 25.59
6 Davy Calvert 26.02
7 Enda Marron 26.04
8 Alison McConnell 26.1
9 Kieran McVeigh 26.15
10 Bernard Mulvihill 26.2
11 Stephen Smart 26.22
12 Thomas O'Hagen 26.28
13 Judith Lowry 26.3
14 Vaughan Purnell 26.47
15 Wes Kettyle 26.47
16 Tony McNulty 26.5
17 Niall McGee 26.51
18 Jim Cooke 26.53
19 Stephen McWilliams 27.02
20 Brian Loughridge 27.1
21 Kevin McCormick 27.42
22 John McManus 27.55
23 Penny Beyer 28.26
24 Jon Reilly 28.44
25 Willie Noteman 29.1
26 Peter Swan 29.23
DNF Clifford Rogers

Time keeping: Dave Lonnen, Desi and Heather

Killynure - League Race #6 (18th May 2010)

2010-05-18T20:33:00.004+01:00

The TT League would like to thank and welcome Lease Options and Decathlon who are sponsoring the race series this year. Lease Options are a locally based vehicle leasing company. Something to consider is the renting of a Motorhome for travelling to further afield races. Decathlon are an established global sports chain who are soon to open a store at the Holywood Exchange, Belfast. Find out more by clicking on the links on this page and support our sponsors.

Just some administration things:
(1) For those who want to start out first you have to arrive and sign on early - 6:30pm would be an ideal time.
(2) At the end of your TT please leave the time keepers alone to collect and record results.
(3) If you have not supplied next-of-kin details please go out of your way at the next TT to do so.

A warm Norn Ireland welcome to Penny Beyer who came all the way from Washington DC to take part in the TT. Well, maybe she is actually studying in Belfast and trains with the Olympia Triathlon club but even so she had to cycle back to Central Station after the race to get the train to Jordanstown which shows a lot of dedication.

Finally, anyone calling "Brian Loughridge" by the name "Brian Loughbridge" will have 30 secs added to their time. This is the Law.

Results

1 Paul Carroll 20.06
2 Vaughan Purnell 20.29
3 John McManus 21.43
4 Tony McNulty 21.48
5 Stephen McWilliams 22.00
6 Desi McHenry 22.13
7 Glen Pollock 22.17
8 Eddie Kierney 22.33
9 Colm Hanratty 22.36
10 Niall McGee 22.51
11 Bernard Mulvihill 22.55
12 Neville O'Neill 22.58
13 Wes Kettyle 23.17
14 Davy Calvert 23.22
15 Jim Cooke 23.32
16 PJ McQuillan 23.44
17 Clifford Rogers 23.45
18 David Morrisey 23.45
19 Brian Loughridge 24.05 (self timed)
20 Kieran McVeigh 24.2
21 Peter McGuicken 24.33
22 Peter Hanvey 24.39
23 Willie Noteman 24.4
24 Kevin McCormick 25.01
25 Ed Smith 25.03
26 Judith Lowry 25.25
27 Alison McConnell 25.28
28 Karl King 25.31
29 Tom Mitchell 25.36
30 Gareth Martin 25.37
31 Ricky Cowan 25.38
32 Penny Beyer 27.20
33 Thomas O'Hagen 27.26
34 Kate Smith 27.31
35 Heather Bamford 27.45

Time keepers: Dave Lonnen and Brian Loughridge

Temple Garage - League Race #5 (11th May 2010)

2010-05-11T22:33:00.002+01:00

The race organisers laid on a nice breeze to push the 34 riders down the first 3 miles to the left hand turn. After that everyone was on their own and had to pedal every so often.

Mechanical malfunction of the night went to Brian Loughbridge who was frantically trying to borrow a tyre before the race because tube was showing.

Wardrobe malfunction of the night went to Jim Cooke who was not too bothered about the rip in his shorts and had bum showing.

Johnny Hooper turned up looking like Woody Woodpecker [that's a reference to woodpeckers two weeks in row for anyone that's counting] by sporting a large pointy white aero helmet. Hooper may have found a simple watch a wiser spend for he missed his start slot and had to go at the back of the field.

Finally, for another week in row Gareth Martin on his city/hybrid bike has been valiantly slugging it out with the carbon frame bunch. Martin is currently in the market for a set of tribars to go on his straight handle bars!

Next week is Killynure. Please park on Killynure Ave, not on the main road.

Results

1 Paul Carroll 26.54
2 Vaughan Purnell 27.49
3 Damien Eanetta 29.14
4 Johnny Hooper 29.21
5 Glen Pollock 29.45
6 Tony McNulty 30.08
7 Desi McHenry 30.24
8 Jim Cooke 30.32
9 Niall McGee 31.18
10 Neville O'Neill 31.33
11 Wes Kettyle 31.36
12 Davy Calvert 31.38
13 Stephen McWilliams 31.4
14 Bill Rafferty 32.02
15 PJ McQuillan 32.17
16 Kieran McVeigh 32.24
17 Clifford Rogers 32.3
18 Michael McLernon 32.38
19 Marty Lennon 33.01
20 Judith Lowry 33.13
21 Maeve Cathal 33.17
22 Alison McConnell 34.08
23 Karl King 34.19
24 Ricky Cowan 34.29
25 Ed Smith 34.44
26 Stephen Smart 35.2
27 Gareth Martin 35.57
28 Heather Bamford 35.57
29 Kevin McCormick 36.26
30 Anne Maguire 38.1
31 Claire Burns 38.2
32 Brian Loughbridge DNF
33 David Morrisey DNF

Timekeeping: Kate (Carol Vorderman watch out) and Eddie (whose subtraction is pretty good).

Carryduff - League Race #4 (4th May 2010)

2010-05-04T21:29:00.003+01:00

At 18:45 exactly the first rider started the Carryduff course on a dry overcast night (with a varying wind strength depending on who you asked). Conditions could not have been too unfavourable as Paul Carroll set a new course record beating Enda's time of 29.18 from last year. Paul is currently tweaking his aero position to make himself as aerodynamic as possible.

The ever "slimmer" Johnny Hooper finished in a comfortable second place. Despite completing the Tour of the Glens at the weekend Damien and Desi followed in 3rd and 4th places respectively. It also looks like Keiran McVeigh has the measure of both Ed Smith and Peter McGuicken and is now looking for his next target.

From the ladies race Joanne Bingham split the Bamford family up, stopping Emma and Heather from a one-two.

A lot of people must be using up their upper body strength out on the TT course. This was obvious tonight when fatigued riders could not muster the power to raise their arms to volunteer for next weeks timekeeping. Despite this Kate and Eddie have their names down for next week.

Here is a one line joke Joe told today at the pool [answer after the results]:
"What do you call a woodpecker without a beak?"

1 Paul Carroll 29
2 Johnny Hooper 31.53
3 Damien Eanetta 32.51
4 Desi McHenry 33.12
5 Niall McGee 33.22
6 Davy Calvert 33.27
7 Bill Rafferty 33.59
8 PJ McQuillan 34.2
9 Stephen McWilliams 34.54
10 Eddie Kierney 34.56
11 Kieran McVeigh 35.06
12 David Morrisey 35.15
13 Peter McGuicken 35.33
14 Emma Bamford 36.16
15 Ed Smith 36.17
16 Ricky Cowan 36.27
17 Willie Noteman 36.45
18 Joanne Bingham 37.42
19 Heather Bamford 38.03
20 Gareth Martin 38.08
21 Kate Smith 38.14
22 Andy French 38.59
23 Claire Burns 40.14

Timekeepers: Vaughan, Glen and Carl

"A headbanger!"

Killynure - Bike Run (27th April 2010)

2010-04-27T21:13:00.003+01:00

Who's the more foolish, the fool or the fool who follows him? I'd say that both are foolish, wouldn't you?
- Obi-Wan Kenobi

An apt quote for those that followed Pollock's lead and turned at some random stone pillar rather than the highly visible traffic cone 200m further uphill. This is arguably familiar territory for Pollock who is often spotted turning short in the shallow end of the swimming pool.

A bit of a miserable night weather-wise did not stop some 26 turning up for the first bike-run of the year. The bike course took the riders out and back on the Killynure Rd followed by a 2 mile run (for most). To date some 47 have now participated in the time trials.

The best tied running shoe laces of the night went to Tony McNulty with a beautiful Two-Loop Shoelace Knot. A case of art over sport and impressively McNulty still secured a foothold on the podium (of the elite long course).

On a bad note we had a nearby resident complain about people parking on/near his grass. On the Killynure course please park along Killynure Ave. Hopefully the resident is a cycling fan and will not take any further action.

Finally, "au revoir" to this years top female Emma who is moving Northward and will no longer make it down on a Tuesday night. That leaves a space for someone else to step up with the leather shoulder pads...

Long course (elite)
1 Paul Carroll 32.52
2 Vaughan Purnell 34.48
3 Tony McNulty 35.48
4 Brian Loughbridge 38.29
5 Jim Cooke 38.44
6 Kieran McVeigh 40.4
7 Emma Kerr 40.55
8 Peter McGuicken 41.19
9 Joanne Bingham 41.4
10 Ed Smith 42.14
11 Heather Bamford 42.45
12 Kate Smith 44.57
13 Karl King 45.03
14 Gareth Martin 46.28
15 Claire Burns 46.53
16 Barbara Brown 48
17 Donal Okane 48.29

Short course (numpty)
1 Johnny Hooper 34.49
2 Glen Pollock 35.45
3 Neville O'Neill 36.02
4 Bill Rafferty 38.21

-- Connor Reilly BIKE ONLY
-- John McManus BIKE ONLY
-- Michael McLernon BIKE ONLY
-- Niall McGee BIKE ONLY
-- Eddie Kierney BIKE ONLY

Timekeepers: Desi, Wes, Colm and Davy

Drumbo Hill Climb (20th April 2010)

2010-04-20T21:28:00.003+01:00

New course, new road signs and some new faces. The Drumbo Hill course is about 2 miles uphill with some tight gradients over the last 800m. No shortage of volunteers for timekeeping either.

PB's were awarded to everyone except for World Champ Desi who did some legendary time back in 1981 when bikes were heavier and the Drumbo Hill was a bit longer and steeper!

Thanks to everyone for not blocking any roads and giving cycling a good name for once.

No changes at the front from last week. Paul Carroll came home first and Emma was top female again. Not that I have any qualifications to judge but I would give man and woman of the hill to John McManus and Heather Bamford respectively. It is starting to look like McManus has got the edge on rival Glen Pollock who did not compete tonight due to a minor sniffle.

1 Paul Carroll 7.16
2 Vaughan Purnell 7.36
3 John McManus 7.46
4 Enda Marron 7.5
5 Neville O'Neill 7.58
6 Tony McNulty 8.01
7 Oscar Monroe 8.16
8 Bernard Mulv 8.17
9 Johnny Hooper 8.32
10 Connor Reilly 8.36
11 Desi McHenry 8.43
12 Marty Lennon 8.44
13 Colm Hanratty 8.45
14 Stephen McWill 8.46
15 David Morrisey 9.06
16 Emma Kerr 9.09
17 PJ McQuillan 9.14
18 Jim Cooke 9.21
19 Peter McGuicken 9.26
20 Clifford Rogers 9.29
21 Thomas O'Hagen 9.35
22 Tom Mitchell 9.44
23 Heather Bamford 10.33
24 Sarah Mescail 10.48
25 Claire Burns 10.5
26 Kate Smith 10.52

Timekeepers: Ed Smith, Wes Kettyle, Dave Lonnen and Glen Pollock.

Word on parking and safety

2010-04-19T16:47:00.002+01:00

We are asking people to be aware that we are using public roads and to be mindful of other road users. The last thing we want is a bad name; you know what people are like about blocking public roads in this country. The two key times this will happen is at signon and at the end when everyone collapses in a drug like state of joy.

For Drumbo Hill climb there should be plenty of space to rest at the top of the climb and we will do the results down in car park opposite the church. Anybody driving to the TT should be parked here.

One other thing is to make sure you sign the waiver form and leave next of kin details. As responsible organisers we need this information.

Thanks.

Killynure - League Race #3 (13th April 2010)

2010-04-13T21:06:00.005+01:00

There was a great turnout of 33 riders this week for the tough out and back Killynure course. A big hello to all the first timers and a welcome back to all the stars of last year.

It was good to see so many of the ladies back this year. Top among them was Emma sporting a fashionable meshed bib and rock-n-roll leather shoulder pads. Obviously the Winter training is paying off.

The course record of 20.57 was broken by the top three riders. Enda managed to lose some of last weeks stodginess and got ahead of Vaughan. However, newcomer and Olympian triathlete Paul was well out ahead at the front.

I will try and get all your surnames for the results next week.

Next week is a hill climb, starting at the Homestead on the Hillhall Road. Please park down at the car park opposite the church and cycle up. Until then don't forget to eat plenty and crank up some ELO on the stereo.

1 Paul Carroll 20.08
2 Enda Marron 20.35
3 Vaughan Purnell 20.37
4 Mike Millar 21.34
5 John McManus 21.35
6 Glen Pollock 21.57
7 Neville O'Neill 22.26
8 Bernard Mulvihill 23.19
9 Brian Loughbridge 23.3
10 Jim Cooke 23.37
11 Colm Hanratty 23.41
12 Tony McNulty 23.48
13 Connor Reilly 23.57
14 David Morrisey 23.57
15 Emma Kerr 24.07
16 Bill Rafferty 24.11
17 Davy Calvert 24.18
18 Stephen McWilliams 24.2
19 PJ McQuillan 24.23
20 Peter McGuicken 24.45
21 Willie Noteman 25.01
22 Ricky Cowan 25.22
23 Alison McConnell 25.44
24 Ed Smith 25.55
25 Clifford Rogers 25.56
26 Maeve 26.11
27 Joanne Bingham 26.17
28 Katherine Bell 26.42
29 Kate Smith 26.46
30 Thomas O'Hagen 27.02
31 Heather Bamford 27.04
32 Claire Burns 28.52
33 Barbara Brown 29.16

Timekeepers: Desi and Wes

Temple Garage - League Race #2 (6th April 2010)

2010-04-06T23:11:00.004+01:00

The time trial season got under-way tonight after last week's cancellation due to the weather. Conditions were fine this week with the rain staying away and the wind dropping before the start.

Under the strict direction of Desi the first TT started promptly at 18:45. Riders went off in 1 minute intervals over the undulating 10.7 mile course. The course record for the Temple TT remained safe at 27.42.

At the front this week, Vaughan (I feel more comfortable referring to myself in the 3rd person) came home just ahead of Enda. Bad luck went to Tony McNulty who lost time when his chain came off. Keiran McVeigh in his first TT finished well clear of training buddy Ciaran (who also particularly enjoyed the extra few miles unintentionally thrown in on the cycle home). First lady home was Alison ahead of ironwoman Heather.

Next week is the infamous Killynure TT. Please try to be at the start around 18:30 for a 18:45 start.

1 Vaughan Purnell 27.55
2 Enda Marron 28.06
3 Glen Pollock 29.40
4 John McManus 29.44
5 Davy Calvert 30.50
6 Tony McNulty 30.56
7 Johnny Hooper 31.13
8 Connor Reilly 31.37
9 Colm Hanratty 32.14
10 Neville 32.37
11 Kieran McVeigh 33.33
12 Peter McGuicken 33.43
13 Ciaran Hanratty 34.32
14 Alison 34.44
15 Heather Bamford 36.16

Timekeepers: Desi & Wes

Time Trial cancelled

2010-03-30T14:56:00.001+01:00

Tonight's time trial has been cancelled due to the weather.

Hopefully weather will brighten for the Temple course next week.

Look forward to seeing you all out on your shiny bicycles soon.

Weather

2010-03-29T15:39:00.002+01:00

The weather forecast does not look good on the eve of the 2010 time trial season. Cecila and Angie are warning of snow and sleet conditions; this is level up from the usual "spits and spots".

What we plan to do this year is that if the weather is obviously going to be very bad there will be a decision made around 4:30pm on Tuesday. The website will then be updated before 5:00pm to say if the TT is off, otherwise assume it is on.

Provisional Calendar

2010-01-05T16:33:00.001Z

The provisional calendar for 2010 is now available below.

Prize Giving Photos 2009

2009-10-08T11:54:00.008+01:00

Thanks to everyone who turned up at Harlequins for the TT prize giving. There were about 30 people present although some may have opted for the speed-dating.

Everyone seemed to wolf down the chilli con carne and chicken stroganoff; just a shame the bar ran out of Guinness.

After food Desi announced prize winners for the League, 2UPs, Handicaps and Ballynahinch Hill climb. No-one publicly questioned the fact that members of the executive committee somehow came 1st, 2nd and 3rd...there is a results spreadsheet if anyone wants to launch an inquiry.

I am also most pleased that Emma got the opportunity to get a photo with sporting hero Desi. On that note there should be some photos uploaded here in the next day or two.

Keep in touch and see you all next year.

Carryduff - Ballygowan Race 12 (1st Sep 2009)

2009-09-01T20:50:00.003+01:00

Back on the 31st March, Neil Masterson won the first TT in a time of 31:47. Tonight Vaughan finished the last TT of the season with a time of 29:23, some 5 secs outside Enda's course record. Incidently, Neil has been recovering the last 6 weeks from an operation and we hope to see him back out next year.

Luckily the rain was mostly over by the start and Dave Lonnen just made the startline after puncturing on the cycle up. The general consenus is that pan racer tyres are a bitch to get off.

Glen, heavily fatigued after Lap the Lough on Sunday, wimped out and opted to help Emma timekeep. Thanks to the time keepers.

Keep an eye out for an announcement about the prize giving. All the money collected will be going towards prizes so don't miss out.

Thanks to everyone throughout the last few months for contributing to an enjoyable series of TTs. We hope to continue with something similar next year.

Results

1 Vaughan Purnell 29.23
2 Steve McKeown 31.15
3 Desi McHenry 31.34
4 Dave Lonnen 31.58
5 Bill Rafferty 32.37
6 Wes Kettyle 33.29
7 Keith Crymble 33.33
8 Davy Calvert 33.58
9 Ricky Cowan 34.22
10 Peter McGuicken 34.53
11 Maeve Cahill 37.07

Temple Garage - Race 11 (25th August 2009)

2009-08-25T20:57:00.002+01:00

The choice tonight was cycling with Lance and 1000 others or doing the Temple TT. Obviously the Temple TT was the best option.

The last Temple TT for this year saw 10 riders turn up. Enda's course record of 27:42 remained intact despite Vaughan's best efforts.

Biggest whinge of the night went to Glen who it seems was the only one caught by the roadwork traffic lights costing him an apparent 40 secs. When I went past him anyway I thought he could use a break so maybe it was not a bad thing.

A noteable performance tonight from Wes with a good speedy outing.

Ricky Cowan had a lucky escape when his front derailler broke just after the race. I put this down to all the jumping into the big gear during the winter.

I hope Maeve enjoyed her beans on toast afterwards - well earned.

Thanks to Davy who did timekeeping duties and hopefully he can get some new cleats for next week.

Hope to see as many as possible in a week's time for the last one of the year.

1 Vaughan Purnell 27.48
2 Desi McHenry 29.42
3 Bill Rafferty 30.26
4 Dave Lonnen 30.29
5 Wes Kettyle 30.30
6 B Loughbridge 31.39
7 Glen Pollock 31.46
8 Maeve Cahill 32.53
9 Willie Noteman 33.31
10 Ricky Cowan 34.33

Killynure Hill Race 10 (18th Aug 2009)

2009-08-18T21:52:00.004+01:00

Update: Gerry has been given the all clear by the Doctor and apart from some stiffness and bruising should hopefully be back in a spin class near you in the next while.

We all wish Gerry a speedy recovery after coming off his bike at tonights mostly aborted TT. He has been taken to hospital for precautionary tests and I will inform everyone of his status as soon as I hear. It looks as if his helmet absorbed the impact so hopefully only the ego is bruised. Gerry's new bike had broke on the Inish100 on Sunday and he was out tonight on the old bike.

A good reminder for everyone to keep their bikes well maintained and wear a helmet (which we all do).

Also, for anyone who was looking at my damaged tyres tonight I have just found out there is a product recall on for them; some mistake in the rubberising process. Apparently very dangerous and should not be ridden on!

Back to business next week for the last 2 TTs of the year. Can anyone throw a few surprises this late in the year?

Optional ride for 10th Aug

2009-08-10T14:33:00.003+01:00

Details for those who want to meet for a cycle tomorrow night (11th Aug). Note: this is just an informal bike ride for those not going for the 25 mile champs on Thursday.

Meet at Carryduff layby, ready to go at 18:45.
Split into groups of 4.
Groups leave at 3 minute intervals, slowest first.
Easy pedal to Temple.
Chaingang work until Saintfield.
Easy pedal back to Carryduff layby.

The full route is 23.6 miles.

View Larger Map

Carryduff - Ballygowan Race 9 (4th Aug 2009)

2009-08-04T21:38:00.003+01:00

The Met office wrong again! Predictions of heavy rain did not come to pass and apart from a headwind on the way out to Saintfield the weather was fine for a TT. Not quite the "bbq summer" but good enough for us.

The course record for Carryduff-Ballygowan is 29.18 (records began this year) and set by Enda on a perfect evening many weeks ago with his disc wheel, tribars and aero helmet (to not take anything away from a great performance - they will be saying polyurethane swimsuits give a time advantage next).

Talking of records Bill Rafferty set a new one; unfortunately not for out-and-out speed but for three punctures in his last three times on the bike. Advice to Bill - stop skimping on money by fixing these punctures and buy some new tubes. I hear chain reaction cycles have an inner tube sale at the minute. Also, make sure you have no shard of glass in there and replace your rim tape while you at it.

Thanks to Colm for timekeeping and luckily I could interpet the slightly hard to read Doctor's handwriting.

Next week is a rest week due to the 25 mile Ulster TT champs. However as there will probably not be that many doing this event anyone who wants can meet at Carryduff layby at 18:45. The plan is to head out on a new route and do some chaingang work. More details later.

1 Vaughan Purnell 29.45
2 Damien Eannetta 30.25
3 Glen Pollock 32.05
4 Davy Calvert 32.25
5 Jonny Hooper 32.58
6 Was Kettyle 33.05
7 Maeve Cahill 33.14
8 Peter Hanvey 34.08
9 Willie Noteman 34.11
10 Peter McGuicken 34.21
11 Keith Trimble 34.21
12 Ed Smith 34.25
13 Ricky Cowan 34.38
14 Ciaran Hanratty 34.53
15 Gavin Noble 35.19
16 Niall Magee 35.43
17 John McManus 35.45
18 Joanne Bingham 35.48
19 Andy Mulholland 37.25
20 Kate Smith 38.58
21 Bill Rafferty 46.59

Temple (28th July 2009)

2009-07-28T21:28:00.001+01:00

A very wet Tuesday evening seen 10 riders turn up. Those who arrived at Temple garage by car would have been happy to call the TT off but when wet stragglers like Ricky, Colm and Damien turned up on their bikes everyone had to make the effort. Since no-one had mudguards (see Glen if you want to know the benefits of mudguards) it was deemed safer to scrap the 2UP and just go individually in 30 secs starts.

Good performances from everyone. Vaughan proved the socks work just as well in the wet as in the dry. Glen, back from holidays (training) in France got some revenge on Damien for earlier in the season. Biggest improver of the week was Ed Smith, obviously fired up after a good showing at the Lisburn triathlon last weekend. Age group winner at Lisburn, Kate, found some pre-holiday form narrowly pipping Emma (who so kindly cycles on the hard shoulder). Finally, the McGuicken is obviously benefiting from cycling with McHenry at the weekends.

Thanks to Maeve and Johnny for timekeeping and good luck to those doing the Mourne Tri this weekend.

1. Vaughan Purnell 29.22
2. Glen Pollock 30.41
3. Colm Hanratty 31.50
4. Johnny Hooper 32.01
5. Damien Eanetta 33.12
6. Peter McGuicken 33.19
7. Ed Smith 34.51
8. Ricky Cowan 34.47
9. Niall Magee 36.06
10. Kate Smith 36.25
11. Emma Kerr 36.39

Killynure Hill Race 8 (21st July 2009)

2009-07-21T21:21:00.002+01:00

Rain at 6:30PM saw people seeking shelter in cars. However the rain eased up in time for the start of Killynure and the riders were off into a headwind in the normal one minute intervals.

Connor Eannetta pipped brother Damien by just 1 second on his first Tuesday night outing. Kate, suffering from post holiday excesses perhaps found the hills tougher than usual and has volunteered to timekeep at the the next Killynure TT. Ed meanwhile had to contend with a saddle that wanted to point down all the time.

Thanks to Johnny for timekeeping. Next week is a 2UP so you only need to work for 50% of the time!

1 Vaughan Purnell 20.57
2 Connor Eannetta 22.29
3 Damien Eannetta 22.30
4 John McManus 22.34
5 Dave Lonnen 22.49
6 Colm Hanratty 22.51
7 Bill Rafferty 23.15
8 Willie Noteman 24.23
9 Peter McGuicken 25.01
10 Edward Smith 25.20
11 Emma Kerr 25.25
12 Kieran Hanratty 25.34
13 Judith Lowry 25.43
14 Joanne Bingham 26.29
15 Kate Smith 27.41

Temple Garage - Race 7 (14th July 2009)

2009-07-14T21:00:00.002+01:00

Ten riders came out for the holiday week TT which returned to Temple. The air temperature was perfect with a moderate headwind in places.

Vaughan's new socks didn't lose their magic in the wash and performed admirably again. Gerry "King of the Sportive" O'Neill put in a decent performance after many weeks absence. In the battle of the sibling's Colm seems to have shook off brother Kiernan for the time being. Putting in a late first appearance Dave Lonnen had a good run but faded in the hills over the last 2 miles. Peter is talking himself real close to getting a new bike; his bottom bracket has a lot of play and is locked solid preventing putting a new one in.

Thanks to Maeve and Judith for timekeeping so well.

1 Vaughan Purnell 28.39
2 Desi McHenry 29.23
3 Dave Lonnen 29.57
4 Gerry O'Neill 30.12
5 Pat O'Hare 30.16
6 Colm Hanratty 30.24
7 Johnny Hooper 31.17
8 Peter McGuicken 32.27
9 Willie Noteman 33.18
10 Kiernan Hanratty 34.05

Roadworks finished

2009-07-13T14:31:00.004+01:00

The roadworks on the Temple TT route are away.

Hence, tomorrow's TT (14th July) will be the Temple route as displayed in the calendar - please be there as usual for 6:45PM.

There are no time keepers arranged so we will work something out on the night.

Carryduff - Ballygowan (7th July 2009)

2009-07-07T21:12:00.002+01:00

Due to popular demand (whinging by some) tonight was just one lap rather than the advertized two laps. This will not happen often; the organisers are a strict bunch and will not bend to any populist way of thinking.

Heading out to Saintfield was a breeze for most but after turning for Ballygowan the cyclists turned into quite a stiff wind. That and the hills made it a challenging course.

With Enda away cycling in the Alps and Desi on holiday it left the race open for others to do well. Davy after making a good increase in times on his new bike added tri-bars tonight and knocked another 30 seconds off his time. Lance is wrong - it is all about the bike. Vaughan sported a fashionable pair of long socks which seemed to pay off; we'll see how many turn up next week wearing similar socks.

Thanks to Niall and Pat for timekeeping. Also thanks to everyone who turned up at the Chelsea last Wednesday. One could tell the proper athletes who were drinking the water.

Keep an eye on this site for details on next weeks TT.

1 Vaughan Purnell 31.16
2 Damian Eannetta 31.43
3 Bill Rafferty 31.51
4 Glen Pollock 32.24
5 B Loughbridge 32.39
6 Davy Calvert 33.44
7 John McManus 34.16
8 Jonny Hooper 34.20
9 Peter McGuicken 35.04
10 Ricky Cowan 35.13
11 Maeve Savage 35.25
12 Peter Swann 35.40
13 Ed Smith 35.41
14 Emma Kerr 35.46
15 Joanne Bingham 37.01
16 Maeve Cahill 37.15
17 Heather Bamford 38.22

Calendar Change due to roadworks

2009-07-06T09:31:00.004+01:00

Due to roadworks with a phased signal on the Temple route we are swapping the 7th July route with the 14th July route.

Hence, the 7th July is now Carryduff-Ballygowan TWICE round and the 14th July will be Temple.

Hopefully the road works will be away by the 14th July.

Please pass the word around.

Killynure Hill HANICAP (30th June 2009)

2009-07-01T12:48:00.001+01:00

Conditions were again perfect for the handicap race over the undulating Killynure Hill. Seventeen racers turned up and after the briefing, which stated that drafting was not allowed, Heather Bamford was the hare we all had to chase down.

Bunching was inevitable as there were only 20 seconds separating some groups of five riders, however all seemed to abide by the drafting rule and there were no complaints at the end.

Victory went to Pat O’Hare, who held off John McManus by 16 seconds. The current number one ranked male triathlete in Ireland came third, holding off Enda by only 2 seconds.

Joanne Bingham, who incidentally is also the current number one ranked female triathlete in Ireland, won the ladies race.

Thanks to Desi for taking the time to work out the handicaps, to Damian Eaneatta, and to Marty from QUB for sharing the time-keeping duties.

Pat O’Hare and Niall Magee have kindly volunteered to do the time keeping at the next race on the 7th July.

Remember the summer social on Wednesday 1st July at The Chelsea on the Lisburn Road. Edna, who is touring round France on his bike for the next six weeks, is bringing along his maps to show us some of the mountains he is planning to conquer.

Pos Name Finish Hcap Actual Time

1 Pat O'Hare 25.38 3.55 22.33
2 John McManus 25.54 3.5 22.04
3 Glen Pollock 26.16 5.2 20.58
4 Enda Marron 26.18 6.45 19.43
5 Bill Rafferty 26.2 5.15 21.05
6 B Loughbridge 26.21 5.05 21.16
7 Peter McGuicken 26.25 3 23.25
8 Davy Calvert 26.37 3.1 23.27
9 Joanne Bingham 26.41 2.3 24.11
10 Tony McNulty 26.59 5.15 21.44
11 Edward Heaney 27.04 3.55 23.49
12 Mark Brown 27.12 6.55 20.57
13 Ed Smith 27.19 3.2 23.59
14 Niall Magee 27.3 2.45 24.51
15 Ricky Cowan 28.16 3.4 24.46
16 Heather Bamford 29.1 1.3 27.48
17 Kevin Morgan 31.09 5.05 26.04

Handicap times for Kilynure, Tue 30th June

2009-06-28T19:18:00.002+01:00

First across the line is the winner...

Everyone must know their start time and be in line ready to go. The start times are as follows:

1 Kate Smith 1.00
2 Heather Bamford 1.30
3 Emma Kerr 1.45
4 Maeve Savage 2.05
5 Joanne Bingham 2.30
6 Maeve Cahill 2.35
7 Niall Magee 2.45
8 Willie Noteman 2.45
9 Seamus Linden 3.00
10 Peter McGuicken 3.00
11 Davy Calvert 3.10
12 Ed Smith 3.20
13 Carl King 3.35
14 Ricky Cowan 3.40
15 John McManus 3.50
16 Erwin Cameron 3.50
17 Ciarn Hanratty 3.55
18 Pat O'Hare 3.55
19 Peter Hanvey 4.00
20 jim Cooke 4.15
21 Sean Bradley 4.40
22 Peter Swann 4.45
23 B Loughbridge 5.05
24 Kevin Morgan 5.05
25 Colm Hanratty 5.05
26 Tony McNulty 5.15
27 Bill Rafferty 5.15
28 Stephen McKay 5.15
29 Glen Pollock 5.20
30 Gerry O'Neill 5.25
31 PJ McQuillan 5.30
32 Damien Eaneatta 5.40
33 Vaughan Purnell 5.50
34 Trudy Brown 6.05
35 Derek Patterson 6.05
36 Enda Marron 6.45

Hill Ballynahinch - Carryduff (23rd June 2009)

2009-06-23T21:58:00.003+01:00

You won't get much better weather than tonight in this country. The course this week was a straight climb from Ballynahinch to Carryduff, finishing at Cyril Johnstons. Incidentally Cyril has an electric fence which one or two discovered when they went for a premature "lean".

He might be "King of the Tuckshop" but Damien the last few weeks has been setting some great times. Maybe his two stints with Enda in the 2UPs explain the improvement or more likely the school tuckshop ran out of stock.

Well done to newcomer Mark Brown for setting the fastest time and Teresa for being the fastest lady.

Next week is a handicap race at everyones favorite, Killynure. Please check this website before next Tue for a list of the handicap start times.

Remember that there is DRINKS next week in the Chelsea on Wed. Come along and say goodbye to Bing who is leaving Belfast for the wild country.

Results:

1 Mark Brown 15.11
2 Nigel Somers 16.21
3 Damien Eaniatta 16.48
4 Desi McHenry 17.24
5 Vaughan Purnell 17.25
6 PJ McQuillan 17.37
7 Marty Lennon 18.11
8 Tony McNulty 18.13
9 Glen Pollock 18.27
10 Sean Bradley 18.34
11 Ricky Cowan 19.16
12 Peter McGuicken 19.26
13 Ed Smith 19.26
14 Davy Calvert 19.32
15 Conor Reilly 19.34
16 Carl King 19.46
17 Teresa Monroe 20.47
18 Willie Noteman 31.44

Carryduff - Ballygowan Race 6 (16th June 2009)

2009-06-16T21:10:00.003+01:00

Everyone seems well race fit at the minute with a few triathlon's in the bag. Some good times posted and very competitive, especially in the 30min to 33min grouping.

Good to see Heather back on the bike after a bad fall during the Wicklow 200.

Congratulations to Desi on his recent European Triathlon Championship age-group win in Zurich; you are frustratingly inspiring for one your age. Forget aero helmets, Desi was sporting some "sexy" knee high socks tonight which seemed to give him an extra minute.

I was just home 15mins tonight and Glen phones asking if I had logged on and updated the site yet...now thats Ironic - somebody should write a song. At least he did have some good news in that you are all welcome to come along for some DRINKS in the Chelsea Wine Bar at 8pm on the Wed 1st July. No particular reason other than being social.

Also, the missing results are now posted in the archives on the right hand side.

Thanks to Peter and Ricky (with impeccable ex-school teacher block writing) for the timekeeping.

The results:

1 Enda Marron 29.18
2 Desi Mchenry 30.25
3 Derek Patterson 31.02
4 Trudy Brown 31.04
5 Damien Ennetta 31.1
6 Stephen McKay 31.5
7 Bill Rafferty 32
8 B Loughbridge 32
9 Vaughan Purnell 32.03
10 Colm Hanratty 32.08
11 Kevin Morgan 32.31
12 Pat O'Hare 33.23
13 Ciaran Hanratty 33.36
14 Glen Pollock 33.44
15 John McManus 34.15
16 Carl King 34.2
17 Ed Smyth 34.47
18 Seamus Linden 35.02
19 Niall Magee 35.03
20 Maeve Cahill 36.28
21 Joanne Bingham 36.33
22 Emma Kerr 37.3
23 Heather Bamford 39

Temple Garage 2UP (9th June 2009)

2009-06-16T21:06:00.000+01:00

Conditions were again perfect for the second 2Up of the season on the Temple-Saintfield-Temple route. Considering the sun was shining and not a breath of wind to be found, it was surprising that only 14 turned up. I put the low turn out down to the fear factor of being drawn with Edna.

Desi, who was acting as timekeeper, drew the names and Damian’s face was a picture as he was once again drawn with Edna. He is still convinced that the draw was rigged.

First place was no surprise as Edna and Damian posted a blistering time of 27.20. Well done also to Peter McGuicken, Bill Rafferty and Ricky Cowan and myself, who finished second and third respectively

Next race on the 16th June is the Carryduff, Ballygowan, Carryduff route.

1 Damien Eannetta 27.2
Enda Mallon
Glen Pollock

2 Bill Rafferty 30.07
Peter McGuicken

3 Glen Pollock 30.25
Ricky Cowan

4 Sean Bradley 30.57
Ed Smith

5 Davy Calvert 31.22
Jim Cooke

6 Peter Hanvey 31.41
Brian Loughbridge

7 Kate Smith 31.49
Ciarn Hanratty

Killynure Hill Race 5 (2nd June 2009)

2009-06-16T21:04:00.001+01:00

Conditions were perfect for the short but sharp 7.6 miles Killynure Road, out and back. The cloudless skies, with not a breath of wind, brought out the fair weather cyclists Bill Rafferty and PJ McQuillan.

There was a good turn out with 20 racers ready to do battle and to set a new PB, after the first Killynure race on the 7th April, when a stiff headwind meant Edna was the only person to post a sub 23 minute time.

In first place was Damian Eannetta, which was a surprise, as he is no stranger to the tuck shop! I still do not know how he managed to carry all that extra weight up the inclines and post such a respectable time. P.J McQuillan must also get a mention in dispatches as he finished a close second, only 9 seconds behind Damian. As a fair weather cyclist, I reckon he must have solar panels fitted to provide extra energy. I was pleased with my third place and way, way back in fourth place was a seething Bill Rafferty.

The ladies race was very close with Maeve Cahill finishing just 3 seconds ahead of Joanne Bingham.

Thanks to Desi and Edna who volunteered to be timekeepers.

Next week is a 2up race with the names drawn from a hat by Desi. (Will Damian be ‘drawn’ with Edna again?) If you wish to volunteer to time-keep, please post a message on the Lunchtime Legends message board

1 Damien Eannetta 21.32
2 PJ McQuillan 21.43
3 Glen Pollock 21.52
4 Bill Rafferty 21.58
5 Colm Hanratty 22.25
6 Sean Bradley 22.31
7 Jim Cooke 22.59
8 Peter Hanvey 23.16
9 Ed Smith 23.56
10 Davy Calvert 24.07
11 Erwin Cameron 24.21
12 Seamus Linden 24.23
13 Ricky Cowan 24.26
14 Willie Noteman 24.31
15 Maeve Cahill 24.41
16 Joanne Bingham 24.44
17 Ciarn Hanratty 25.02
18 Carl King 25.26
19 Heather Bamford 25.46
20 Kate Smith 26.18

Carryduff - Ballygowan Race 4 (26th May 2009)

2009-06-16T21:01:00.000+01:00

There was a good turn out again, despite the breezy conditions and rain showers. The early starters had an advantage as they missed the rain and the accompanying increase in the head wind, which was a factor on the home straight from Moneyreagh to the finish.

Honours again go to Enda Marron, who for the first time took over 30 minutes on this course. Performance of the night must go to Desi McHenry, who was just under a minute behind Enda. His good time was probably because he had rested up at lunchtime instead of doing his normal spin class! Third place went to Damien Eannetta and he was pleased as punch, considering he had barely been on the bike much over the winter as he was marathon training. At the beginning of the TT season, we thought Enda would be unbeatable but with Desi, coming within a minute a dink in his armour has been made. My money is on Vaughan with his new bike to give Enda some sleepless nights before the TT races wrap up in September.

On down the field there were quite a few close finish times and no doubt scores will attempt to be settled at the next outing at Killynure. If you would like to be a timekeeper, please register your interest on the Legends message board.

Stephen McKeown suffered bad luck just outside Ballygowan when his chain came off and got mangled – thanks to Jim Cooke for going to rescuing him. Stephen is off to compete in Ironman 70.3 in Switzerland in two weeks time so good luck for that one.

Finally, thanks to Willie Noteman and Heather Bamford for braving the elements and doing a great job in timekeeping.

1 Enda Marron 30.23
2 Desi McHenry 31.18
3 Damien Eannetta 31.3
4 Paul McGuire 31.41
5 Bill Rafferty 32.32
6 Brian Loughbridge 32.38
7 Glen Pollock 32.5
8 Jim Cooke 33.04
9 Gerry O'Neill 33.14
10 PJ McQuillan 33.16
11 John McManus 34.33
12 Tony McNulty 34.54
13 Peter McGuicken 35.09
14 Johnny Hooper 35.11
15 Davy Calvert 35.26
16 Carl King 35.55
17 Ricky Cowan 36.05
18 Peter Hunter 36.07
19 Ali McConnell 37.5
20 Emma Kerr 37.26
21 Stephen Mckeown DNF

Carryduff Handicap (12th May 2009)

2009-06-16T20:56:00.004+01:00

In the first handicap race of the season, Ricky Cowan took top honours with Enda Marrow, the hot favourite, finishing down in 8th place. There can be no criticism of the handicaps set by Desi, as the finish times between 2nd and 14th place was only 56 seconds. The handicaps were based upon previous times over the same course and offset against Edna’s winning time a few weeks earlier.

Gerry O’Neill finished propped up the pile as he suffered a mechanical problem less than a mile from the finish.

Finally, thanks to Desi for setting the handicaps and doing timekeeper.

1 Ricky Cowan 35.23 7.4 27.43
2 David Calvert 34 5.4 28.2
2 Carl King 34.55 6.35 28.2
3 Bill Rafferty 32.47 4.2 28.27

4 Joanne Bingham 37.36 9.05 28.31
5 Maeve Savage 36.16 7.35 28.41
6 Tony McNulty 32.47 4.05 28.42
7 PJ McQuillan 33.13 4.3 28.43
8 Willie Noteman 34.3 5.35 28.55
8 Edna Marrow 28.55 0 28.55
9 Emma Kerr 36.07 7.1 28.57
10 Peter Swann 33.04 4 29.04
11 Heather Bamford 38.06 9 29.06
12 Colm Hanratty 32.55 3.45 29.1
13 Ed Smith 36.43 7.3 29.13
14 Sean Bradley 33.19 4.05 29.14
15 Johnny Hooper 36.25 6.5 29.35
16 Glen Pollock 32.51 3.05 29.46
17 Peter McGuickan 34.47 5.2 29.47
18 Niall Magee 35.34 5.45 29.49
19 Maeve Cahill 35.3 5.4 29.5
20 Kate Smith 38.18 7.25 30.53
21 Johnny Bolan 38.39 3.45 34.56
22 Gerry O'Neill 41.07 3.35 37.32

Glen apathy and Hill Climb Update

2009-06-14T19:51:00.004+01:00

Apologies for the lack of updates and results the last few weeks. This was entirely down to Glen who just seemed not to bother despite the computer training he recieved. He will now be under pressure to buy drinks at the prize giving party in the pub. Does everyone know Desi beat Glen in Athy and Camlough; just thought I would mention that!

Anyway, I should be able to get the last few results and post them here.

Please note the calendar has been updated for the 23rd June session. We will not do the Ulster Sprint Champs at Scrabo. Instead we are going to do an uphill sprint from Ballynahinch to the top of Carryduff Hill (just before Cyril Johnstones). The plan is to leave Carryduff around 6:30 and cycle down slowly as a group to the start. Alternatively people can just turn up at Ballynahinch.

No other news except I now have a carbon bike...so watch out!

Vaughan

Portaferry TT and Update

2009-05-06T09:24:00.005+01:00

Ards TT
Well done to anyone who braved the weather for the Ards TT - I wimped out! Results should be posted at some point on the Ards CC website:
Ards CC Results

Maximum limit reached
We now have 50 unique names of people who have entered a Legends TT. It is good that people are enjoying the league but 50 is the maximum limit and hopefully not everyone will turn up on the same night. It would be appreciated if people do not invite anymore friends etc. along so the organisers do not have to turn people away.

Calendar change
The race calendar will be amended in the next few days as we are not allowed to participate in the Hill Climb Championship (23rd June) or the 25 mile TT Championship (13th August) as we are not members. These two events will be replaced with something similar at a different venue.

Temple - Twice Round (28th April 2009)

2009-04-28T21:52:00.002+01:00

Two laps of the Temple-Saintfield circuit made a great workout for the old legs. The wise riders would have saved a bit on the hills on the first time around. Three people got under the hour including Paul McGuire on his first outing.

Unfortunately Sean punctured on the first lap just after the Saintfield roundabout (which i hope everyone went around and didn't take the shortcut). The valve broke on his spare tube forcing him to fix the puncture with glue and a patch. Better happening on a Tue night than in a race.

It is noted that many people chose to drive tonight - I wonder why?

On a personal note I most apologize if i am asking everyone what gears they are running. One month ago strange numbers like 50/34 and 12-25 mean't nothing to me but lately i can think of little else. Also, perhaps I should have brought my rope to give a Desi a tow up the hills (I'm sure I'll pay for that comment).

Good to see Johnny got the message and didn't turn up in his Jimmy Saville outfit!

Next week we are going to the TT on the Portaferry Road run by the Ards club. Expect to see proper cyclists!

-Vaughan

1 Enda Marron 56.02
2 Paul McGuire 59.08
3 Vaughan Purnell 59.49
4 Neil Masterson 61.52
5 Damien Ennetta 62.02
6 Glen Pollock 62.23
7 Desi McHenry 63.04
8 B Loughbridge 64.05
9 John McManus 64.43
10 Pat O'Hare 64.49
11 Johnny Davis 65.22
12 PJ McQuillan 65.36
13 Peter Hanvey 66.06
14 Maeve Cahill 66.23
15 John O'Neil 66.3
16 Peter McGuicken 67.49
17 Willie Noteman 67.54
18 Davy Calvert 68.17
19 Nial Magee 68.29
20 Alan Bates 69.54
21 Joanne Bingham 71.38
22 Emma Kerr 72.28
23 Carl King 74.25
24 Ian Campbell 75.03
25 H Bamford 75.14
DNF Sean Bradley

Carryduff - Ballygowan 2UP (21th April 2009)

2009-04-21T21:59:00.004+01:00

Surprisingly most people started and ended as a pair with the exception of Johnny and Martina! The statisticians' among you will be beside yourselves comparing individual performances with 2UP performances.

The top 3 pairs for this 2UP will get a small prize at the end of the series.

Did Desi use his rope and who was towing who is the question?

Where did Johnny get them warmup jogging bottoms - he cuts a figure like a fit Simon Callow? Or perhaps he thought it was fancy dress and came as Jimmy Saville!

(Check out the photo's)

1. Enda Marron + Damien Eannetta - 30:56
2. Pat O'Hare + Vaughan Purnell - 31:56
3. Peter McGuicken + Bill Rafferty - 32:05
4. Desi McHenry + Sean Bradley - 32:08
5. Maeve Cahill + Colm Hanratty - 32:58
6. Glen Pollock + Ed Smith - 33:24
7. J Boylan + Gerry O'Neil - 33:44
8. Edward Kearney + Ricky Cowan - 33:59
8. Alan Bates + Emma Kerr - 33:59
10. Kate Smith + Niall Magee - 35:37
11. PJ McQuillan + Maeve Savage - 36:06
12. M Barr + Brian Loughbridge - 36:16
13. Martina Elliot + Johnny Davis - 40:57

Photos (21st April)

2009-04-21T21:10:00.008+01:00

Race 3 Results (14th April 2009)

2009-04-14T20:55:00.005+01:00

Good conditions and everybody on time for the Temple start! Enda is now officially the man to beat, comfortably winning a second week in a row. Two weeks ago we had Glen grinning like a chesire cat and Desi looking down at his feet. Tonight the roles were somewhat reversed. This was repeated in many similar battles the whole way down the field.

I must raise my hand and admit a mistake! Despite having done the course before and being responsible for drawing the map I managed to miss the turn and took a nice wee trip to Ballynahinch garage. Also worthy of a mention is Wes who completed the course despite breaking his collar bone two weeks ago (good thing we don't test for Ibrofen). Finally, a welcome back to the triathletes' from Olympia after a weeks warm weather training.

Next week promises to be a bit of fun with the 2UP; it could be the start or end of some beautiful relationships.
- Vaughan

Results

1. Enda Marron - 27:42
2. Eamon Hill - 29:00
3. Desi McHenry - 29:51
4. Glen Pollock - 30:10
5. Edward Kearney - 30:27
6. Gerry O'Neill - 30:33
7. Colm Hanratty - 30:45
8. Tony McNulty - 31:05
9. Bill Rafferty - 31:22
10. Pat O'Hare - 31:24
11. John McManus - 31:39
12. Wes Kettyle - 31:40
13. Joseph McKay - 31:55
14. Vaughan Purnell - 32:06
16. Peter Hanvey - 32:38
17. Willie Noteman - 32:45
18. Alan Bates - 32:48
19. Davy Calvert - 33:22
20. Niall Magee - 33:27
21. Peter McGuicken - 33:33
22. Ricky Cowan - 34:55
23. Stephen Smartt - 35:13
24. Emma Kerr - 35:29
25. Maeve Savage - 35:49
26. Joanne Bingham - 36:12
27. Connor Reilly - 40:16
DNF - Neville O'Neil

Race 2 Results (7th April 2009)

2009-04-07T21:02:00.002+01:00

Throw in some rain, a bit of a headwind and make the out-and-back course hilly and we have the first Killynure TT! Well done to everyone for braving the weather and turning up on time (except one person - you know who you are)! Thanks also to this weeks time keepers, Desi and Wes. Just on a safety note please keep your bikes and yourselves off the middle of the road at the start and end of the races. Alright, results below:

1. Enda Marron - 20:57
2. Vaughan Purnell - 23:07
3. Glen Pollock - 23:44
4. Edward Kearney - 24:23
5. Joseph McKay - 24:31
6. Brian Loughbridge - 24:40
7. Neil Masterson - 24:53
8. Peter Hanvey - 25:02
9. Colm Hanratty - 25:14
10. John McManus - 25:30
11. Marty Lennon - 25:44
12. Alan Bates - 25:49
13. Peter McGuicken - 26:09
14. Maeve Cahill - 26:21
15. Davy Calvert - 26:41
16. Bill Rafferty - 26:57
17. Johnny Hooper - 27:30
18. Emma Kerr - 27:45
19. Ricky Cowan - 28:11
20. Kate Smith - 28:44
21. Maeve Savage - 28:58
22. Alison McConnell 29:17
22. Heather Bamford - 29:34
23. Martina Elliot - 30:12

Race 1 Results (31st March 2009)

2009-03-31T21:07:00.000+01:00

The first TT kicked off with a big turnout of 22 registered riders. Perfect weather conditions saw some promising times for so early in the year. Aero helmets seem to be the must have accessory!

Reminder for next week that there will be no entries accepted after 6:45. Here are the results which I tried my best to record accurately.

1. Neil Masterson - 31:47
2. Glen Pollock - 31:56
3. Desi McHenry - 32:13
4. Eamon Hill - 32:14
5. Sean Bradley - 32:47
6. Johnny Davis - 33:00
7. Pat O'Hare - 33:10
8. Wes Kettyle - 33:17
9. Neville O'Neil - 33:49
10. Peter McGuicken - 34:14
11. Willie Noteman - 34:36
12. Peter Hanvey - 34:47
13. Nial Magee - 34:50
14. Carl King - 35:47
15. Ed Smith - 36:19
16. Mark Barr - 37:10
17. Kate Smith - 37:18
18. Stephen Smart - 37:37
19. Heather Bamford - 37:50
20. Joanne Bingham - 37:57
21. Martina Elliot - 41:20
22. Barbara Brown - 41:50