touring2002

The Good News.

The Leisure League was won by John Hunt for the second consecutive year and so he will retain the cup for another year.
1st. on 28 points   John Hunt.

2nd.on 24 points   Denis Farnan

3rd.on 22 points   Liam Lenehan.

Larry Williams won the Jack Lynch cup and
Kevin Simms won the Dick O' Brien trophy for the Wicklow 200.

10 members earned Touring Medals; Brendan Byrne; Ned Costello; Paddy Davis: Hugh Davis; John Hunt; Dick O' Brien; Harry Sharrat; Kevin Simms; Henry Whelan; Larry Williams:
Liam Lenehan and Dennis Farnan.
On a final note may I say thanks to all who participated in this year's Leisure League and I hope to meet you all again next year and share your company on some more enjoyable outings.   I will not be going forward for the post of Leisure Director next year so if any member out there fancies the job let us know.   Best wishes to all and thanks for your co-operation.    Dick O' Brien.

The Final Event, The Joe Hoare Trophy.

On Sunday the 6th. October the final event on the IVCA's 2002 Calendar was run. It was a two - in - one event over a long (40 mile course) and a short (24 mile course). Riders started at one-minute intervals and had to estimate their time for their chosen course. The circuit courses were in the reverse direction to last year and 18 members participated. Participants are not allowed to carry timepieces, which adds a bit of fun to the event. Several riders were very close to their estimated time but in the end Liam Lenehan ( a relatively new member) was the winner, with William Parnell second and that grand old knight of the road, Kevin Prunty third. Congratulations to all concerned and my personal thanks to Donal who having finished his attempt, took over the administration.

West Wicklow 100 Km.

The weather was excellent for this annual event and 275 riders participated.   Quite a large number of ladies turned out.

The course proved popular, offering a good morning's challenge without being too demanding.    Main roads were avoided as much as possible and although there were some mighty potholes soon after Dunlavin, thankfully there were no reports of accidents.   Mick Manley was in charge of affairs and he was assisted at the Basketball Arena by Willie Marks and Tony Mc Carthy. However poor Peter Rice had to man the Dunlavin checkpoint on his own. Bad enough to have to try and serve 275 thirsty cyclists but the Imaal Hall caretaker forgot to deliver the boiler which was on load to the pub next door for a do the night before. The first of the cyclists had arrived before the pub owner turned up with the boiler, so Peter had to rely on his own cooker and kettles to provide the tea. So when a group of about 100 arrived together things got a bit hectic. However thanks to Peter's great efforts and the good nature of the cyclists everyone remained in good spirits and the day was a great success.

Wicklow 200 in 2002.

This year (2002) we celebrated the 20th Anniversary of the running of the Wicklow 200.   Over 900 cyclists signed up for what is now well established as Ireland's Premier Cycling Challenge. To mark the occasion a commemorative cycling jersey was introduced and it proved to be very popular with all the participants.

Considering the event clashed with Ireland's second round game against Spain in the World Cup Final the turn out was exceptional.   Coupled to that is the fact that many other cycling events on this years Leisure Cycling Calendar have seen a fall off in participation. No doubt the dreadful weather is a contributing factor. 70% had signed up for the full Wicklow 200 course but on the day quite a few opted for the shorter Wicklow Gap course.   The lure of seeing the match live on television and the gathering clouds over the mountains caused a crises of conscious for some at the Valleymount checkpoint and they headed back to Dublin.   Others, determined to complete the full course, sought out pubs along the route and watched the game, but then along with the disappointment of the result, they had to face the wind and rain as they battled over the Sally Gap and Killakee climbs.   However the consensus at the end of the day was that once again the Wicklow 200 Classic had lived up to its reputation as Ireland's Premier Cycling Challenge.

Can you imagine the number of cups of tea 900 thirsty cyclists can consume at the various checkpoints. And can you imagine the mess they leave behind even when they are as well behaved as they were. It takes a team of volunteers to set up, service and clean up each checkpoint. It's great to be able to report that the relationship between those volunteers and the cyclists was A1. The cyclists appreciated the service they received and were very generous in their expressions of gratitude to those looking after them (many of whom had sacrificed their own chance to ride the event and also missed out on seeing the match).

The organisers wish to record their grateful thanks to all those members helped out, and without whom the event would not have been the great success that it was.

Cycling Weekly (Britain's Biggest selling cycling magazine) sent over a team to cover the event.   Two of their staff rode the event and were accompanied by a staff photographer. The result&ldots; an excellent four page spread, beautifully illustrated and giving a vivid and detailed run down on the whole event.

The article appeared in the July 13th. issue. Copies are available from their Back Issues Dept. at

P.O. Box 666, London, E15 !DW. Telephone   London 020 8532 3628.

The 100 miles in 8 hours (Sunday 18th August).

This year we seemed to be destined to clash with major events.   The Wicklow 200 clashed with Ireland's World Cup match and on Sunday the ' 100 in 8 ' clashed with a Lark In The Park.   I'm not suggesting that any of our members put the Rock Festival before the cycle but the numbers were down on previous years. Perhaps the rain had something to do with it and the fact that entry into the Park was restricted.   However those who did turn up had a very enjoyable tour in ideal cycling conditions once the rain stopped.   By the end of the day 35 members were involved though mainly due to restrictions at the Park they were not all together all of the time.

    The event set out on a new route, from the Papal Cross to Blanchardstown, which due to several punctures took almost an hour to reach.   However as usual the crack was mighty and the group was in good spirits when Navan was reached via nice backroads through Ratoath and Screen. Here some of the lads and lassies (there were 4 ladies) turned off for home while the majority pushed on to Athboy where there was a stop for a bit of grub. The group split into a sort of 'them and us' scenario with 'us' going into the hotel for a nosh up and 'them' being fed from the Sherratt travelling tuck wagon. Needless to say 'them' were finished before 'us' and set off on the second leg of the trip.   Meanwhile, the banquet over 'us' took off in hot pursuit (well lukewarm pursuit).   Imagine our surprise when many miles later 'they' joined us from behind.    Having missed the correct turn they had merrily ridden almost to Mullingar before realising their error.   Just goes to show how much they enjoyed the spin.

Next event is the West Wicklow on Sunday 15th.September from the Basketball Arena, Tallaght, at 9 a.m.

On Sunday 21st. July the Group met in the Phoenix Park and toured through County Meath in relatively good weather (there was no rain).   There were thirteen in the group, which included the league leader John Hunt. Due to holidays his great rival Pierce Summers missed the ride leaving John 2 points in the lead. However the season is not over yet.

Sunday 19th. May East coast tour.

On a very wet and windy Sunday 19th. May 13 members set out on the East Coast run through Shankhill to Rathnew and on to Rathdrum.   Weather conditions were to say the least, poor.   There was one puncture on the road to Newcastle and an even more untimely one on the climb into Rathdrum.   In the dreadful weather conditions the group split in Rathdrum, some members opting for a hot bowl of soup while the rest soldiered onto Laragh before stopping for some hot sustenance. However nature was kinder on the homeward run, and while the rain continued to pour the gale was in our backs.   Nevertheless only the team of Morelli and Moser (on their tandem) braved the climb up by Djouce, the rest of us opting for the Kilmacanogue decent into Bray. The run was billed as a preparation for next months Wicklow 200.   Here's hoping Mother Nature is in a kinder mood on Sunday 16th. June.      John Hunt and Pierce Sommers continue to head the Leisure League with 12 points each.    Both Des Farnan and Dick O' Brien are on 10 points with Liam Lenehan on 8.    Then there are 4 members with 7 points; Terry Kernan; Liz Mc Kenna; Romano Morrelli; and William Parnell.    Just a reminder that there will be 3 points awarded for the Wicklow Gap Challenge and 5 points for the Wicklow 200 Classic.   Now is the time to send in those entry forms .

Points will be awarded to riders taking part in each Leisure League event this year and the rider with the highest number of points at the end of the season will win the Leisure League trophy. Two points were awarded to each of the participants in January and February's events. Longer/tougher events such as The 100 in 8 and the Wicklow 200 will carry higher points.
If you have an interest in Leisure Cycling or have any suggestions to make, contact:
Dick O'Brien, 24 Dowland Rd., Walkinstown, Dublin 12.
Leisure League up-date (See report on 1st 4 events below)

(Event 4) Peaks and Valleys Tour. 21st Apr 2002
On Sunday 21st April the Peaks and Vallies Tour took place. 14 stalwarts (including some new faces) set off from the Square Shopping Centre, Tallaght into a stiff wind, which ensured they were well warmed up by the time they reached the first climb (Slieve Corragh), at Hollywood. Then followed the ascent up the Wicklow Gap, which was shrouded in mist. In Laragh there was a stop for a mug of tea and a crust of bread and of course a good old chin wag. On the climb up by the Glenmacnass Waterfall the group split up in the heavy mist and by the summit of Sally Gap it was difficult to know who was where. In the damp conditions it was everyone for themselves on the very steep decent into Manor Kilbride but everyone arrived home safe and sound. It was indeed great preparation for the Wicklow 200. On Sunday 19th May there will be another opportunity to prepare for Ireland's Premier Cycling Challenge when the Leisure Group will meet at Merrion Square (and then at Shankhill) for a run south to Rathnew and then up to Roundwood. All members welcome.
The League Points Leaders to date are: On 9 points: John Hunt, and Pierce Sommers. On 7 points: Denis Farnan ; Terry Kernan; Liz Mc Kenna; Dick O'Brien; and William Parnell.

(Event 3)Report on The Traditional 50 in 4. 24th Mar 2002
On Sunday 24th March the traditional 50 in 4 was staged from the Papal Cross in the Phoenix Park. To help cater for the divergent needs of the members (some like it hot, and hard but others are less savage) riders were given the option of a riding 50 kilometers in 4 ; or 50 miles in 4 or a longer course of around 56 miles in 4.
On the day, which was dry and cool, ideal for cycling, 66 members turned up representing a good cross section of the Association and including Touring, Leisure, and Racing Members. The route for all was out through Lucan and Celbridge to Clane. A pit stop before Clane caused a split in the group. After Clane the 50 klm. course branched off for Maynooth and Dunboyne. The main body headed for Kilcock where those opting for the 50 miles course headed for Mullagh and Dunboyne. The savage riders went the extra miles to Summerhill and then headed for Dunboyne with all riders returning to the Phoenix Park via the Navan Road. At the end of this great get together the consciences was that it was indeed a great event and a real social occasion.

(Event 2) 17th Feb 2002
The second event of the Leisure League took place on Sunday, 17th February. A total of 26 riders took part. The Tour was run at a brisk pace, but the group stayed together out through Rush, Lusk, Skerries and Balbriggan. In Balbriggan, Road Works diversions split the group up. Some riders headed back to Dublin along the main road, while others (we think!) headed in the direction of The Naul.

(Event 1) East Meath Tour 20th Jan 2002
A total of 17 riders participated in the first event of the 2002 Leisure League - The East Meath Tour - which took place on 20th January. Given the windy conditions, this was a very good turn out. Henry Whelan has put a well written and entertaining account of the event on the Message Forum, which is well worth checking out.
Points will be awarded to riders taking part in each Leisure League event this year and the rider with the highest number of points at the end of the season will win the Leisure League trophy. Two points were awarded to each of the participants in January's event. Longer/tougher events such as The 100 in 8 and the Wicklow 200 will carry higher points. A table showing points awarded in the League will be placed on the Website and kept up-to-date, so riders will know where they stand in the League.

	The Good News. The Leisure League was won by John Hunt for the second consecutive year and so he will retain the cup for another year. 1st. on 28 points John Hunt. 2nd.on 24 points Denis Farnan 3rd.on 22 points Liam Lenehan. Larry Williams won the Jack Lynch cup and Kevin Simms won the Dick O' Brien trophy for the Wicklow 200. 10 members earned Touring Medals; Brendan Byrne; Ned Costello; Paddy Davis: Hugh Davis; John Hunt; Dick O' Brien; Harry Sharrat; Kevin Simms; Henry Whelan; Larry Williams: Liam Lenehan and Dennis Farnan. On a final note may I say thanks to all who participated in this year's Leisure League and I hope to meet you all again next year and share your company on some more enjoyable outings. I will not be going forward for the post of Leisure Director next year so if any member out there fancies the job let us know. Best wishes to all and thanks for your co-operation. Dick O' Brien. The Final Event, The Joe Hoare Trophy. On Sunday the 6th. October the final event on the IVCA's 2002 Calendar was run. It was a two - in - one event over a long (40 mile course) and a short (24 mile course). Riders started at one-minute intervals and had to estimate their time for their chosen course. The circuit courses were in the reverse direction to last year and 18 members participated. Participants are not allowed to carry timepieces, which adds a bit of fun to the event. Several riders were very close to their estimated time but in the end Liam Lenehan ( a relatively new member) was the winner, with William Parnell second and that grand old knight of the road, Kevin Prunty third. Congratulations to all concerned and my personal thanks to Donal who having finished his attempt, took over the administration. West Wicklow 100 Km. The weather was excellent for this annual event and 275 riders participated. Quite a large number of ladies turned out. The course proved popular, offering a good morning's challenge without being too demanding. Main roads were avoided as much as possible and although there were some mighty potholes soon after Dunlavin, thankfully there were no reports of accidents. Mick Manley was in charge of affairs and he was assisted at the Basketball Arena by Willie Marks and Tony Mc Carthy. However poor Peter Rice had to man the Dunlavin checkpoint on his own. Bad enough to have to try and serve 275 thirsty cyclists but the Imaal Hall caretaker forgot to deliver the boiler which was on load to the pub next door for a do the night before. The first of the cyclists had arrived before the pub owner turned up with the boiler, so Peter had to rely on his own cooker and kettles to provide the tea. So when a group of about 100 arrived together things got a bit hectic. However thanks to Peter's great efforts and the good nature of the cyclists everyone remained in good spirits and the day was a great success. Wicklow 200 in 2002. This year (2002) we celebrated the 20th Anniversary of the running of the Wicklow 200. Over 900 cyclists signed up for what is now well established as Ireland's Premier Cycling Challenge. To mark the occasion a commemorative cycling jersey was introduced and it proved to be very popular with all the participants. Considering the event clashed with Ireland's second round game against Spain in the World Cup Final the turn out was exceptional. Coupled to that is the fact that many other cycling events on this years Leisure Cycling Calendar have seen a fall off in participation. No doubt the dreadful weather is a contributing factor. 70% had signed up for the full Wicklow 200 course but on the day quite a few opted for the shorter Wicklow Gap course. The lure of seeing the match live on television and the gathering clouds over the mountains caused a crises of conscious for some at the Valleymount checkpoint and they headed back to Dublin. Others, determined to complete the full course, sought out pubs along the route and watched the game, but then along with the disappointment of the result, they had to face the wind and rain as they battled over the Sally Gap and Killakee climbs. However the consensus at the end of the day was that once again the Wicklow 200 Classic had lived up to its reputation as Ireland's Premier Cycling Challenge. Can you imagine the number of cups of tea 900 thirsty cyclists can consume at the various checkpoints. And can you imagine the mess they leave behind even when they are as well behaved as they were. It takes a team of volunteers to set up, service and clean up each checkpoint. It's great to be able to report that the relationship between those volunteers and the cyclists was A1. The cyclists appreciated the service they received and were very generous in their expressions of gratitude to those looking after them (many of whom had sacrificed their own chance to ride the event and also missed out on seeing the match). The organisers wish to record their grateful thanks to all those members helped out, and without whom the event would not have been the great success that it was. Cycling Weekly (Britain's Biggest selling cycling magazine) sent over a team to cover the event. Two of their staff rode the event and were accompanied by a staff photographer. The result&ldots; an excellent four page spread, beautifully illustrated and giving a vivid and detailed run down on the whole event. The article appeared in the July 13th. issue. Copies are available from their Back Issues Dept. at P.O. Box 666, London, E15 !DW. Telephone London 020 8532 3628. The 100 miles in 8 hours (Sunday 18th August). This year we seemed to be destined to clash with major events. The Wicklow 200 clashed with Ireland's World Cup match and on Sunday the ' 100 in 8 ' clashed with a Lark In The Park. I'm not suggesting that any of our members put the Rock Festival before the cycle but the numbers were down on previous years. Perhaps the rain had something to do with it and the fact that entry into the Park was restricted. However those who did turn up had a very enjoyable tour in ideal cycling conditions once the rain stopped. By the end of the day 35 members were involved though mainly due to restrictions at the Park they were not all together all of the time. The event set out on a new route, from the Papal Cross to Blanchardstown, which due to several punctures took almost an hour to reach. However as usual the crack was mighty and the group was in good spirits when Navan was reached via nice backroads through Ratoath and Screen. Here some of the lads and lassies (there were 4 ladies) turned off for home while the majority pushed on to Athboy where there was a stop for a bit of grub. The group split into a sort of 'them and us' scenario with 'us' going into the hotel for a nosh up and 'them' being fed from the Sherratt travelling tuck wagon. Needless to say 'them' were finished before 'us' and set off on the second leg of the trip. Meanwhile, the banquet over 'us' took off in hot pursuit (well lukewarm pursuit). Imagine our surprise when many miles later 'they' joined us from behind. Having missed the correct turn they had merrily ridden almost to Mullingar before realising their error. Just goes to show how much they enjoyed the spin. Next event is the West Wicklow on Sunday 15th.September from the Basketball Arena, Tallaght, at 9 a.m. On Sunday 21st. July the Group met in the Phoenix Park and toured through County Meath in relatively good weather (there was no rain). There were thirteen in the group, which included the league leader John Hunt. Due to holidays his great rival Pierce Summers missed the ride leaving John 2 points in the lead. However the season is not over yet. Sunday 19th. May East coast tour. On a very wet and windy Sunday 19th. May 13 members set out on the East Coast run through Shankhill to Rathnew and on to Rathdrum. Weather conditions were to say the least, poor. There was one puncture on the road to Newcastle and an even more untimely one on the climb into Rathdrum. In the dreadful weather conditions the group split in Rathdrum, some members opting for a hot bowl of soup while the rest soldiered onto Laragh before stopping for some hot sustenance. However nature was kinder on the homeward run, and while the rain continued to pour the gale was in our backs. Nevertheless only the team of Morelli and Moser (on their tandem) braved the climb up by Djouce, the rest of us opting for the Kilmacanogue decent into Bray. The run was billed as a preparation for next months Wicklow 200. Here's hoping Mother Nature is in a kinder mood on Sunday 16th. June. John Hunt and Pierce Sommers continue to head the Leisure League with 12 points each. Both Des Farnan and Dick O' Brien are on 10 points with Liam Lenehan on 8. Then there are 4 members with 7 points; Terry Kernan; Liz Mc Kenna; Romano Morrelli; and William Parnell. Just a reminder that there will be 3 points awarded for the Wicklow Gap Challenge and 5 points for the Wicklow 200 Classic. Now is the time to send in those entry forms . Points will be awarded to riders taking part in each Leisure League event this year and the rider with the highest number of points at the end of the season will win the Leisure League trophy. Two points were awarded to each of the participants in January and February's events. Longer/tougher events such as The 100 in 8 and the Wicklow 200 will carry higher points. If you have an interest in Leisure Cycling or have any suggestions to make, contact: Dick O'Brien, 24 Dowland Rd., Walkinstown, Dublin 12. Leisure League up-date (See report on 1st 4 events below)
	(Event 4) Peaks and Valleys Tour. 21st Apr 2002 On Sunday 21st April the Peaks and Vallies Tour took place. 14 stalwarts (including some new faces) set off from the Square Shopping Centre, Tallaght into a stiff wind, which ensured they were well warmed up by the time they reached the first climb (Slieve Corragh), at Hollywood. Then followed the ascent up the Wicklow Gap, which was shrouded in mist. In Laragh there was a stop for a mug of tea and a crust of bread and of course a good old chin wag. On the climb up by the Glenmacnass Waterfall the group split up in the heavy mist and by the summit of Sally Gap it was difficult to know who was where. In the damp conditions it was everyone for themselves on the very steep decent into Manor Kilbride but everyone arrived home safe and sound. It was indeed great preparation for the Wicklow 200. On Sunday 19th May there will be another opportunity to prepare for Ireland's Premier Cycling Challenge when the Leisure Group will meet at Merrion Square (and then at Shankhill) for a run south to Rathnew and then up to Roundwood. All members welcome. The League Points Leaders to date are: On 9 points: John Hunt, and Pierce Sommers. On 7 points: Denis Farnan ; Terry Kernan; Liz Mc Kenna; Dick O'Brien; and William Parnell. (Event 3)Report on The Traditional 50 in 4. 24th Mar 2002 On Sunday 24th March the traditional 50 in 4 was staged from the Papal Cross in the Phoenix Park. To help cater for the divergent needs of the members (some like it hot, and hard but others are less savage) riders were given the option of a riding 50 kilometers in 4 ; or 50 miles in 4 or a longer course of around 56 miles in 4. On the day, which was dry and cool, ideal for cycling, 66 members turned up representing a good cross section of the Association and including Touring, Leisure, and Racing Members. The route for all was out through Lucan and Celbridge to Clane. A pit stop before Clane caused a split in the group. After Clane the 50 klm. course branched off for Maynooth and Dunboyne. The main body headed for Kilcock where those opting for the 50 miles course headed for Mullagh and Dunboyne. The savage riders went the extra miles to Summerhill and then headed for Dunboyne with all riders returning to the Phoenix Park via the Navan Road. At the end of this great get together the consciences was that it was indeed a great event and a real social occasion. (Event 2) 17th Feb 2002 The second event of the Leisure League took place on Sunday, 17th February. A total of 26 riders took part. The Tour was run at a brisk pace, but the group stayed together out through Rush, Lusk, Skerries and Balbriggan. In Balbriggan, Road Works diversions split the group up. Some riders headed back to Dublin along the main road, while others (we think!) headed in the direction of The Naul. (Event 1) East Meath Tour 20th Jan 2002 A total of 17 riders participated in the first event of the 2002 Leisure League - The East Meath Tour - which took place on 20th January. Given the windy conditions, this was a very good turn out. Henry Whelan has put a well written and entertaining account of the event on the Message Forum, which is well worth checking out. Points will be awarded to riders taking part in each Leisure League event this year and the rider with the highest number of points at the end of the season will win the Leisure League trophy. Two points were awarded to each of the participants in January's event. Longer/tougher events such as The 100 in 8 and the Wicklow 200 will carry higher points. A table showing points awarded in the League will be placed on the Website and kept up-to-date, so riders will know where they stand in the League.

TOURING 2002
LEISURE LEAGUE TABLE