Dromore CC take on the Tour of Carlingford

Dromore Cycling Club members at the start in Silverbridge.

DCC were one of the biggest cycling clubs taking part in the event. Sticking together in one group, more than a dozen other cyclists joined the club on the road to take advantage of shelter in the group.

The weather forecast for the day had been for warm and dry conditions. It turned out to be cold, wet and windy.

The route for the event was 80 km (50 miles) running south to Dundalk, along the shore of Dundalk Bay and round to Carlingford for a short rest stop and then on to Newry past Camlough and back to Silverbridge.

Dromore CC members tuck in after the event.

In challenging conditions - it rained all the way round with a strong headwind most of the way - the club got to the finish line with all members in one large group.

Hot soup, sandwiches, buns and scones were provided at the finish for the hardy cyclists that made it to the finish line - very welcome sustenance for tired, wet and cold riders.

Dromore CC had initially planned to ride down from Banbridge but due to the early morning weather decided to ride from Newry to the start line in Silverbridge.

After the event the members had to cycle back to Newry to drive home - resulting in three rides between Newry and Silverbridge.

Andrea from Dromore CC was serenaded with 'Happy Birthday' at starting line.

In total the team rode over 115 km (72 miles) and climbed over 800m in elevation.

Before the start over 150 cyclists sang “Happy Birthday” to Andrea from Dromore CC and another rider who shared the same birthday. This was great start to a great ride and set everyone off with a smile.

Money raised by the event will be donated to Irish Injury Support (Brain Injury) and Irish Pilgrimage Trust.

Dromore CC would like to thank Slieve Gullion Wheelers for their warm hospitality and kindness during the event - it was greatly appreciated by all members who took part.

Dromore CC, alongside four other local cycling clubs, is currently running a ‘Sofa To Saddle’ scheme for new people wanting to get into cycling.

Organised by Craigavon Borough Council, the scheme is described as “designed to get you off the couch and onto the saddle. Our trained cycle club leaders will take you through specific training in cycle groups at your level to improve your technique and your fitness.”

In the coming weeks the club will also be taking part in Time Trials - timed rides over a fixed route that feed into a league table of riders from other local clubs. The club hopes to have 8 - 10 riders taking part and would like to wish them every success.

More details of the sportive, Sofa to Saddle scheme, planned club events and other club activities can be found on the club’s website at dromorecc.com.