Pleasure Team remember Hugo Loughran

Hugo, right, was an inspiration to a whole generation of cyclists and is still fondly remembered by all who had the privilege of cycling with him.

The Pleasure Team in its own way of paying tribute to Hugo by continuing to coax and inspire new cyclists while at the same time challenging the more experienced.

The big challenge for the Pleasure Team this year (as it has been in previous years) is to undertake a tough 100 mile cycle in early June. The months of April and May will be of vital importance in preparing for this challenge.

At this point all members have a good fitness base and can cope reasonably well with our regular 35 mile runs.

Over the next two months we will do five runs which will gradually build up the distance and the toughness, culminating in our tough 100 mile goal. In between the longer runs we will return to our 35 mile base runs. Anyone reaching our goal is then a well prepared cyclist, who can hold their own in any cycling company and need have no fear of any cycling challenge.

This week’s base run took us to Bush, Annaghmore, across the Moy/Portadown road and on to Kilmore. While waiting to regroup outside Kilmore Parish Church, the Master was able to inform his fellow cyclists that the bell tower in this church is built around a centuries old ‘round tower’, which is well worth seeing if you ever get the opportunity.

After Kilmore we headed to Stonebridge. A left turn here took us up and down 4 steep hills. At the top of the last hill a look over your right shoulder gave a beautiful view of Slieve Donard in the Mournes while a glance over the left shoulder gave a stunning view of Slieve Gallion in the Sperrins. The scenery alone almost made the effort worthwhile.

Coffee, refreshments and banter were had at Scotch Street Motors before heading back towards Moy. The massive improvement in newcomer Malachy Nixon was obvious for all to see.

After just four outings he is already cycling and leading like a veteran. Definitely a good cycling prospect for the future.

One o’clock saw us return to base with 34 miles on the clock. The Pleasure Team will continue to meet each Saturday at the Cornmill; the usual time will be 10.30am, but the times will vary for the five longer runs in April/May. If you intend joining us for the longer runs then check the times and dates on 07502 115309.