Banbridge Cycling Club notes

Club Business - Last Tuesday heralded the club AGM held at Banbridge Leisure Centre.

A record 58 members attended - testimony to the resurgence in interest in Ulster’s fourth largest cycling club. A healthly cross section of the membership and various cycling disciplines within the club was well represented.

Club President Wilbur Aiken spoke with pride of the various competitive successes achieved by members while representing both BCC and Cycling Ireland international, national and provincial events throughout 2011.

A healthy financial position was confirmed by Treasurer Mal McGreevy and the proceedings for the meeting were ably managed by Chairman Charlie McConville with the help of Assistant Club Secretary Cathy McArdle.

The election of officers produced few surprises except for new member Phil Beattie who found himself voted on to the committee in his first year of membership - but Phil is certain to be a useful addition to this important group .

One historic issue dominated any other business and it is suspected was partly the reason for the record turnout - the proposal to change the club jersey ! Both the traditionalists and modernisers will probably be content with the outcome of the voting - the universally familiar BCC jersey of yellow with horizontal black and red strips will remain as recognizable as ever but with some subtle tweaks to design which recognise current trends in cycling attire. Final versions may be on the road next summer.

A lively AGM finished with a request by the Chairman that similar attendances occur at future monthly club meetings - lets hope so. Thanks to Banbridge Council for use of the facility.

Club Runs: At 9am on 11th December 32 members assembled at the Coach Inn to boost the usual numbers of the ‘Sunday Club’ for the annual Diamond Fry run to Warrenpoint.

This has been a traditional outing for the past six or seven years when the participants enjoy an easy pace and the chance to socialise with cycling friends during the 20 mile run to their favourite café stop in South Down. For once (?) everyone ignores their dietry foibles and training pressures and surrenders to the joy of a full Irish breakfast fry.

With just one puncture to contend with good progress was made via the dual carriageway to arrive at the venue on time. Over an hour later and suitably fortified by the delicious fry up, cake and believe it or not (you should have been there!) a glass of mulled wine the group retraced their route back home via the towpath . Hardly anyone complained of the rain - if they even noticed it.

An excellent and seasonal outing enjoyed by all and one not to be missed next year. Great to see so many of the younger members present. Thanks to Gerry Quinn and Kevin McAlinden for taking care of arrangements and apologies to Bernie in the café for the wine stained blouse.

You may be a cyclist (but not in a club ) reading this thinking that sounds like fun. It is. If you fancy it there are more opportunities to ride your bike in a friendly environment - consider joining the 127 members already in BCC and join in .