Racers Meeting at North Pole Bar
On Thursday next 11th February there will be a meeting for competitive riders at the North Pole Bar at 8pm. If there is enough interest there will be a 40 mile club race finishing at the Ballyliffin Hotel on Sunday 14th February in preparation for the coming racing season.The first race of the 2010 season will take place on Saturday 27th February at Annaghclone.The following day Sunday 28th February,the Phoenix 'B' Race won in 2009 by Rory Devlin will take place.

The indoor Watt Bike league will take place at 8.30 after warm-up.Those competing should bring their cycling gear for best results. Please book to ensure a place on the night.086-2788497.

Network of Donegal Cycling Clubs.
Donegal Cycling Clubs are currently in the process of producing a single cycling calender of all their events for 2010. These events will all be conducted under Cycling Ireland guidelines in order to ensure that riders can compete in the certain knowledge that the event is fully insured.

National Camp Westport
On Friday last North Pole were represented at the Junior/U25 Camp in Westport,Co Mayo by Rory Devlin,Kieran Eccles,David Eccles,Patrick Mc Laughlin and Shane Mc Laughlin.The following two days took in two stages of the Junior Tour which will take place in July.The young riders were also interviewed on a one-two-one basis by key Cycling Ireland personnel to assess their suitability as possible members of future Irish squads. The Donegal riders including 18 year-old Pauric Mc Cafferty a recent signing for Four Masters, all gave a good account of themselves.North Pole were also represented by National 'B' Champion Mark Buchanan who assisted Cycling Ireland's Stevie Mc Kenna in pacing the U25 riders.National Junior Champion Charles Prendergast was also on hand to assist Dr Phil Leigh,Cycling Ireland's high performance director.Cycling Ulster also were represented by Anthony Mitchell, Patrick Withers and many of Ulsters best young cyclists.
Youth Commission Chairman Dan Curtin expressed his appreciation to all who turned out for this very important Training Camp.

Watt Bike Races at North Pole Bar.
On Thursday next 11th February there will be indoor Watt Bike Races for 16 riders at the North Pole Bar. This will be the first round of 5 weekly races which will take place each Thursday.
After warm-up each contestant will cycle for 10k.
First 4 riders will start at 8pm.Four fastest riders from this first round will qualify for final which will take place on 11th March.Entry for each race €3.Riders may re-enter in a second or subsequent race if there is space.First time entries will get priority.
Anyone interested in taking part should text their details to 086-2788497 before Wednesday.

U25/Junior Camp Westport.
The following will travel to the National U-25 and Junior Camp in Westport this weekend.5th/6th/7th Feb.
Rory Devlin
Kieran Eccles
David Eccles
Patrick Mc Laughlin
Shane Mc Laughlin

Looking East.
Any member wishing to travel to Island Wheelers Reliability Trial on Sunday 7th February please contact Eunan Devenney 0862765525.

Cyclist of the Month for January.



Raymond Doherty,Ballybofey has been chosen as North Pole's Cyclist of the Month for January.A well deserved honour for one of our most promising cyclists.
Joseph Doherty was chosen as Young Cyclist of the Month.Well done Joseph. Both Raymond and Joseph will now be entered into Cyclist of the Year which will be voted on by all the members at North Pole Annual Dinner.

The Tour of the North takes place over 4 days starting in Belfast(Stormont) on the evening of Good Friday.
North Pole will enter a team of 5 riders.A2's and A3's.
The team will be made up from the following panel;

Mark Buchanan A2
Rory Devlin A2
Kieran Eccles A3
Eunan Devenney A3
Glen Mc Daid A3
Raymond Doherty A3
Robert Carter A3
Anyone else interested,let me know. 086-2788497.Final selection will take place on Monday 22nd February.

NORTH POLE TRAINING SESSIONS will resume on Sunday 7th February and Sunday 14th February.(Weather permitting).

INJURED RIDERS FUNDRAISER

On Sunday 21st February there will be a major Cycle from Letterkenny to Buncrana and back to Letterkenny for tea/sandwiches at The Voodoo Bar,Letterkenny.This event is being organised by Four Masters Cycling Club as a means of raising funds for injured cyclists. As many as possible North Pole members are asked to support this event.More details to follow or check www.fourmasterscycling.com




NORTH POLE..........Always at the front.
Jim Doyle leads the way in the Annual Sligo-Letterkenny Cycle in July 2009. Not far behind are his team-mates Rory Devlin and Paddy Mc Callion who were first and second to arrive in Letterkenny.Jim Doyle was third home.Some 250 cyclists took part. That number is expected to double in 2010 as Cycling Ireland is expected to include it in the official list of leisure events for the first time.

Patrick Quinn debriefs his team.

Training day for Juniors and Espoirs(Under 23's) will be held in Ballymena on Sunday 21st February
If interested please contact Ryan Connor immediately to secure a place......more.http://www.cyclingulster.com/index.php?thenewsid=3786&newstable=news

Cyclist losses High Court case against race organiser.....more http://breakingnews.iol.ie/news/ireland/cyclist-loses-damages-action-443576.html


Sunday 7th February Training.

'A' Group will meet at 8.30am at the Inishowen Gateway Hotel.
Group Leader......Robert Carter.086-3120648
Route.....50miles+.
Pace...Brisk.17mph+.No scheduled stops.
Would suit....competitive cyclists.


'B' Group will meet at 9.30am at Euro-Spar,Umricam (2 miles north of Buncrana on road to Clonmany).
Group Leaders.......Liam O'Donnell. 086-3872180
Route....40miles+.
Pace...Steady.15mph+.Short recovery stop at 25miles.
Would suit......Good leisure cyclists trying to be better.
There will be free POWERBAR GEL for the first 20 riders to sign-on(courtesy of Liam O Donnell).


'C' Group will meet at 10.30am at North Pole Bar.
Group Leaders.......Barry Grant . 074-9362942
Route.....20miles+.
Pace.....Comfortable.No one will be dropped.Numerous stops.This group is ideally suited for beginners.
Would suit......all types/all ages, especially novices.

Helmets are compulsary.

Members Registration.

Scale of fees
Non-cycling membership €30 euro includes Cycling Ireland insurance while helping at club events.
Introductory membership €40 euro includes Cycling Ireland leisure-only insurance.
Cycling membership €60 euro includes Cycling Ireland leisure-only insurance.
Club Competition membership €95 euro includes Cycling Ireland club-race insurance. Majority of members take this option.
Time Trial Race membership €125 euro includes Cycling Ireland Open TT-race insurance.
Open Membership €160 euro includes Cycling Ireland open-race insurance.
Full competition Junior(Born 92/93) €60 euro includes Cycling Ireland open-race insurance.
Full competition Youth U16(Born 94/95) €45 euro includes Cycling Ireland open-race insurance.
Full competition Youth U12/14(Born 96/97/98) €15 euro includes Cycling Ireland open-race insurance.







NORTH POLE CYCLING CLUB CHRISTMAS DINNER and AWARDS NIGHT at THE LAKE OF SHADOWS on Friday 11th December.

North Pole Cycling Club will have their Annual Christmas Dinner and Awards Night at The Lake of Shadows Hotel, Buncrana on Friday 11th December.Special guests will be Tommy Lamb and Marian Lamb from Cycling Ulster.
Those in line to receive awards include;

• Mark Buchanan,Winner of the National 'B' Championship,The Ballyliffin Hotel Cup and The James Fullerton Cup.
  
• Rory Devlin,Winner of Phoenix GP 'B' Championship.
  
• Karol Doherty,Winner of the National Handcycling Time Trial Championship.
  
• Willy John Mc Laughlin,Winner of The Cranford Cup.
  
• Robert Carter winner of The Strand Hotel Cup.
  
• The North Pole 'A' Team,winners of The Roe Valley Inter Club Shield.
  
• Brendan Duffy's Team,winner of the SuperTeam Cup.
  
• Seamus Murphy,winner of the SuperVet Cup
  
• Pat Mc Laughlin and Pat Doherty winners of the Slieve Snaght Challenge.
  

Cyclist of theYear 2009
Young Cyclist of the Year
Club Person of the Year
Lady Cyclist of the Year
Most improved cyclist
Best dressed cyclist
and
3 Special Achievements Awards

North Pole Cyclists of the Year 2009

The following are finalists for 'cyclists of the year 2009'

	Senior	Youth/Junior
January	Willy John Mc Laughlin	Barry Grant
February	Christian Mc Ginley	Dylan Gill
March	Paddy Mc Callion	Shane Mc Laughlin
April	Adrian Lynch	Aidan Noone
May	Patrick Doherty	Philip Porter
June	Robert Carter	Edward Noone
July	Cathal Wilson	Christopher Carter
August	Sean Bradley	Daniel Mc Laughlin
September	Kieran Eccles	Patrick McLaughlin
October	Peter Mc Gonagle	Matthew Doyle
November	Sandra Mc Laughlin	Aaron Mc Bride
December	Eunan Devenney	Dermot Graham

Sean Kelly at the Inishowen Gateway Hotel,Buncrana


Sean Kelly Sportactive Training Weekend at The Inishowen Gateway Hotel



Joe Barr.Jim Maguire and Sean Kelly

Julie Mulligan,Sandra Mc Laughlin ,Sean Kelly and Carl Mc Laughlin



Sandra Mc Laughlin is awarded North Pole Cyclist of the Month.





Louise Fullerton and Julie Mulliga
Sean Kelly Training Weekend 28th/29th November.

North Pole Cycling Club

Committee for 2010/11

President........Liam O Donnell

Chairman........Eunan Devenney
Vice Chairman....Cathal Wilson
Secretary........Carl Fullerton
Treasurer........Michael Mc Daid

Race Commission......Eunan Devenney
Youth Commission......Marty Noone
Leisure Commission...Edward Doherty
League Commission...Cathal Wilson

Chief Marshals
Robert Carter
Christopher Ward
Barry Grant


Chairmans Review of 2009

Annual Membership Fees 2010.

Leisure membership
Lady member (first time-introductory membership). €20( includes Cycling Ireland non-competion insurance)
Male member (first time-introductory membership). €40( includes Cycling Ireland non-competion insurance)
Adult member . €60( includes Cycling Ireland non-competion insurance)

Youth membership
U10.Born after 1999 €15( includes Cycling Ireland non-competion insurance)
U12,14.Born in 1996,1997,1998 or 1999 €15( includes Cycling Ireland full competition insurance)
U16.Born in 1994 or 1995 €15( includes Cycling Ireland full competition insurance)
Junior.Born 1992,1993 €60( includes Cycling Ireland full competition insurance)

Racing membership
Club competition. €95( includes Cycling Ireland club competition insurance)
Restricted competition €125( includes Cycling Ireland club and either race or time-trial competition insurance)
Full competition €160( includes Cycling Ireland full competition insurance)
Overseas Authorisation (photograph required) €20.

A valid membership number will be required for all North Pole leisure and competitive events.
Membership can be applied for from 1st November 2009 and will last until 31st December 2010.
Please send details(name,address and date of birth) and appropriate fee to;
The Secretary
North Pole Cycling Club
Main Street
Buncrana.
Co.Donegal

The AGM of North Pole Cycling Club will take place on Thursday next 19th November at 8pm. in The Inishowen Gateway Hotel,Buncrana..

Any member wishing to serve on the Ten person Board of Management should send their details to Carl Fullerton at 086-2788497 or carlfullerton@hotmail.com before 6pm on Wednesday 18th November.

On the night there will be nominations for Club Chairman,Club Secretary and Club Treasurer.These posts will be for a two year period

Subcommittee Chairmen will also be selected by the meeting for a one year period to deal with;

• Leisure
  
• Youth
  
• Racing
  
• Club League
  

The board will comprise of these 7 people and three other board members who will be elected by ballot on the night.








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SuperVet and SuperTeam Race.





The long awaited North Pole SuperVet and SuperTeam races took place today at the North Pole Bar.Eleven supervets(over 50 age group) and their 7-man teams took part.The format for the individual race was straight forward.First man across the line got the SuperVet Trophy won in 2007 and 2008 by Carl Fullerton.In the team event the winning team was required to get 5 men across the line before the other teams did.
From the start the pace was high with attacks coming from Willy John,Fullerton and Eunan Devenney which came to nothing and the race held together for the first 20 miles.The first split occurred at the mile long climb at Quigleys Point with a break of 15 riders getting away.This move was initiated by Devenneys Team and they bullt a solid lead of 4 minutes by the time they reached Carndonagh. Willy John had however got back on by Collon and kept the pressure on the other supervets.The Dublin Man,Seamus Murphy was there too but he kept a low profile leaving the local riders to grab the headlines.The long drag up Blllyliffin at the 70k stage was a busy affair with 15 cyclists in the leading bunch all vying for an imaginary 'king of the hills' title.From here on the pressure was relentless.Four teams had four men each in position.Devenney,the favourite was well positioned near the front.None of the leaders seemed to be concerned with the Team race.Getting the captain home first seemed to be the priority.Willy John was watching Fullerton who in turn was marking Devenney.Eunan was waiting for the attack.At the 500metres to-go mark he stalled not having noticed Murphy launching an attack.He went for it but it was too late.The individual title had gone to Dublin.Devenney was second.Well done to Seamus Murphy fondly known in the North Pole CC as the Dublin man.
The team event was won by Brendan Duffys Team with a suberb performance by 12 year old Christopher Carter a name to watch for in the future.Another noteworthy performance was that of 16 year old Shane Bill Mc Laughlin who was first rider across the finish line having averaged over 20mph for the 80k.race.




Seamus Murphy (The Dublin Man),centre with his support team,L-R,Kieran Eccles,JP O' Donnell,Sean Bradley and Edward Noone.Seamus now holds the title of North Pole SuperVet Champion after his spectacular win.

A great days cycling.Seventy cyclists took part.There were no incidents.Everyone was a winner.




Brendan Duffy(centre) with two of his key men,Peter Mc Gonagle and Mark Gill.The other team members were Robert Carter and Christopher Carter.

A special thank you must go to The Gardai Traffic Corps who supplied us with 2 Gardai Motor Cyclists for all of the race and cars at the principle road junctions.Thanks also to our own Motor-bike marshals Paul Devenney and Eddie Breslin,to Barry Grant chief marshal,to Kevin Graham,broomwagon,to Josephine Gill,catering manager and to all the other volunteers who went out of their way to help.






Anna Mc Ginley,future Ladies Cyclist with dad Christian Mc Ginley, second placed Eunan Devenney and sports psychologist and motivator Adrian Lynch.

The formal presentation of awards for the SuperVet and SuperTeam events will take place at the Annual North Pole Christmas Dinner and Awards Night in December.












Burt Road Race.....16th September at 6.30pm

Looks like the last weekday race of the season. There will be three races .

• 'A' Race at 6.45pm for 'racers'. 4 laps.
  
• 'B' Race at 6.50pm for 'Cat 4' riders. 4 laps if the light holds out,otherwise 3 laps.
  
• Under 16 race.3 laps.The youth race will only be held if there are enough marshals.
  
• Chief Marshal...Christian Mc Ginley 086-2190300

RESULT!

1. Mark Buchanan NPCC
   
2. Patrick Mc Laughlin NPCC
   
3. Rory Devlin NPCC

Youths

1. Arron Mc Bride NPCC
   
2. Dylan Gill NPCC
   
3. Philip Porter NPCC
   
   
   

Tough Race. 25mph!...35 riders....Well done to Teams from Four Masters,Errigal and Omagh Wheelers.

North Pole Team at Ulster Championship in Cruml



After a day of unfortunate clashes where Donegal cyclists were divided over 4 events on Sunday 6th September we can look forward to next Sunday where there is only one event on the calender. It is described in the e-mail below.It would be good to see some North Pole shirts there. Running an event like this needs quite alot of planning and expense and they should all be supported. If not, they will not be repeated next year and everybody looses especially cyclists.


Donegal Goes All Out For Ryan Connor


The Four Masters Cycling Clubs Poison Glen Tour 2009 takes place this Sunday. This 73 mile Leisure cycle event starts at Letterkenny Community Centre at 9.30am, with sign on open from 8.45am. There will be two groups with the leisure cyclists off at 9.30am and the racing cyclists off at 10.00am.
The event is open to all levels of cyclists, and there will be plenty of support vehicles on the route.
Starting at Letterkenny the run will go to Kilmacrennan, Termon, Cresslough, Falcarragh, Dunfannaghy, Gortahork, Dunlewy, Poison Glen, Glenveagh National Park, Churchill and back to Letterkenny, where all cyclists can avail of a welcome shower and tea and sandwiches.
This years event is in aid of Ryan Connor, a cyclist who is in need of a heart procedure.
Ryan Connor is an international class cyclist from Northern Ireland, who cycles for the Usher Irish Road Club. One of the top cyclists in the country Ryan has won the Ulster Road Race Championship for the past two years. He is also one of only two cyclists to get under 19 minutes for a 10 mile TT.
During the 2008 racing season Ryan noticed an irregularity in his heart rate. Ryan now has to get a loop recorder inserted into his chest to record what his heart is doing. This operation is expensive and is not available through the NHS, so as fellow cyclists we have decided to help him out.
As a club we feel very strongly that when a fellow cyclist gets into some hardship whether it’s for health reasons or an accident we should all pull together as cyclists to help.
This year we have decided to run our Poison Glen tour to help out Ryan, who as a rider has supported us in Donegal in every race we have held and has won the Four Masters John Deere Classic.
As a club we are asking you to support this event with as many riders as possible to show your support for a fellow cyclist.
Safety helmets must be worn by all.
Sponsorship cards are available from Eamonn Tinney & Sons, John Deere Dealers in Letterkenny, or Castle Cycles in Raphoe.
For more information log onto www.fourmasterscycling.com or contact Liam Tinney on 087 2902515













Peter Mc Gonagle,North Pole showed that he can cycle with the best.Seen here at 50 mile marker with leaders, Dinny Doherty,left and Patrick Morning ,both 4Masters.
Peter was undoubtedly the star North Pole performer in the Poison Glen Tour.












Poison Glen finishers Matthew and Colm Doyle.Real tough guys.



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Well done to all in the North Pole Championship Team.
We got an 'A' for the 'B' as you will see from message below.

Message from Tommy Lamb by e-mail.

On behalf of the executive of Cycling Ulster may I congratulate the
North Pole Cycling Club on their double championship promotion at the
weekend. Both events were superbly organised and the Hill Climb in
particular will be talked about for many years to come.

It was good to see a local winner in Mark Buchanan. He thoroughly
deserved his victory and will no doubt be North Pole's first 1st
category rider.

Please pass on our congratulations and thanks to every member of the
club. You did Uladh proud.

Is mise

Tommy Lamb
Chairman
Cycling Ulster

Thanks Tommy........See you at the Poison Glen Tour on Sunday



Sunday 6th September........Tour of Poison Glen. Letterkenny. Four Masters Cycling Club.
Our colleagues in Four Masters CC are very appreciative of the support of North Pole riders in this event.
They will be available to assist us if required in the SuperVets Race on October 4th.


Wednesday 10th September......North Pole Road Race at Slab Road,Burt.4 laps for Seniors.2 laps for youths.Starts 6.45pm.sharp.
This race will take place on Wednesdays until further notice.

Result.....for Wednesday 2nd September.
A Race.

1. Pat Dunnion.
   
2. Patrick Mc Laughlin
   
3. Robert Carter.
   

B Race.

1. Aaron Mc Bride
   
2. Shane Mc Laughlin
   
3. Philip Porter
   

All Ireland 'B' Championship Cycle Race at Ballyliffin,Co.Donegal Results.

1. Mark Buchanan North Pole.
   
2. Fergus Rooney Phoenix
   
3. Jonathon Gormley Emyvale
   
4. Ciaran Mangan Clonard
   
5. Gary Mc Nulty Orwell
   
6. Gary Gorman Cucullan
   
7. Keith Fox Murphy & Gunn
   
8. Raymond Dunlop Lakeland
   
9. Conor Mc Grath Comeragh
   
10. Odhran Connors Orwell
    

Team Prize; Comeragh CC;
Conor Mc Grath
Martin Cullinane
Martin O Brien

72 starters

3X20 mile laps. =60 miles......Winning time 2hrs 28 minutes.




Feedback from Fergus Rooney Phoenix CC,Silver Medallist.

'Was a good hard race. Good roads, with one main climb and plenty of other tough rises. First lap was hard with everyone flat out, plenty of attacks. A few miles into the last lap on a windy section before the climb the bunch slowed, so i just decided to ride on. Got a decent gap in a relatively short time. Then when Buchanen came up to me, i was glad of the company, and good company it was too. He was strong and willing to ride through. We both forged ahead up the climb and onward. He had a better kick than me on the uphill finish. A worthy winner and a very strong rider, i doubt we will not have seen the last of him. Must thank and congratulate all at North Pole on a very good weekends racing. Well organised and professionally orchestrated events. The spread afterwards was one of the best i've seen at any race. Thanks to Carl Fullerton for the kind words an praise at the presentation. Thanks also to all at Phoenix for all the help and support all year, we all know the hard grafters who make the club function successfully. Any shouts of encouragement are always a help. I saw Tommy on the last lap on top of the mountain, shouting and jumping up and down in the pouring rain, his face full of passion. I knew then i simply couldn't let the chasers catch us. All in all a great weekends racing in a lovely part of the world, i recomend to any cyclist to head up there. Was good to meet John Neill and family on Saturday. Good ride by Cathal in the Hillclimb. And well done to Tonya taking the ladies prize. Thanks again to all involved'
Taken from Phoenix CC message board.

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Hi Carl

Great race yesterday, when I saw the course on the 1st lap I thought you'd been lying about the 53 ring but it was possible to get around all the way in the big ring. The course was excellent with difficult, but not impossible climbs and some great descending into Carndonagh. The cross winds on the mountain road made the racing really interesting and probably helped to remove any wheel suckers...... there was no place to hide there !

Unfortunately I came off the bike and sustained some damage to my shifters, catching the main field was not a possibility. The showers and food afterwards were unexpected but very welcome.

Please thank your team from the Lucan club we all enjoyed the day.

Regards, Neil Neil O'Connor Lucan Cycling Road club -------------------------------------------------------------------------- The Comeragh perspective. While most of the cyclists in the country were heading South to Waterford for the Sean Kelly tour, four Comeragh riders headed 450km north to the national B Championships in Ballyliffin, Co. Donegal. Martin O’Brien had this one in his race plan of a few months, while I decided if Martin was going I would head with him and got down to some training in the last few weeks, Finbar Power and Martin Cullinane then weighed in to see if we could land a result or bring home the team prize. It was a shame the 2 events had to clash but Comeragh having won the team prize the last two times we had entered a team just had to go and compete. The North Pole Cycling Club in Donegal were the hosting club and they put on a well organized and well run event. The message had come from the organizers, “sure it’s a flat course a few big ring drags” when Martin O’Brien made the call to North Pole about the course layout, this proved to be a PR stunt to get people to travel ! you cant blame them really, as the course was far from flat, with a tough hill at the start finish line and an ascent of a road called “Mountain Road” together with pouring rain and a severe cross wind on an exposed road after the “Mountain Road” it was tough going. The course was just right and would sort out the men from the boys and give a worthy winner at the end. Despite some early attacks nothing really got away until after the Mountain road climb a group started top open a gap, Martin Cullinane was our man in this group but despite riding hard they never really got much of and advantage and were brought back after the hill at the start finish straight. Meanwhile Finbar who had already suffered a puncture warming up before the start, which was quickly sorted out by the neutral service lads, had the misfortune to puncture again within the first few miles and despite chasing hard never got back onto the main bunch, he did however soldier on to complete the course. Half way through lap 2 Martin O’Brien was in a promising looking move and seeing the possibility of the break making progress, Martin Cullinane made a dash to get across, a pre race plan of ours was to try and get 2 men in a break, however a rider moved straight across the front of the bunch (a crazy move) and took Martin out and, yes not for the first time this year Martin hit the deck, I managed to slice my way through the pile of bodies on the road and continued on, Martin O’Brien’s group probably hearing the chaos behind seemed to loose there drive and were caught. Martin Cullinane punctured when he crashed, with neutral caught behind some cars it took a while for him to get going again, he chased hard moving from group to group finishing eventually in the third group, his efforts in chasing and passing riders resulted in us winning what was a very close call for the team prize. On the second ascent of the mountain road, the race was still more or less together but this was where it all changed, I road strongly over the climb and with the crosswind and lack of shelter I knew the race could be split, myself and a few other riders rode hard across this section resulting in the race splitting into a few groups, (perhaps a quote should be got from Martin O Brien about this part of the race!). The result was a group of about 15 riders in front and I was with them. Going through the start finish line Martin O’Brien and a few others bridged the gap, there were now about 20-25 riders left in contention with all the team cars and official vehicles in behind this group the winner was going to come from it.There was a steady pace in this group as every one thought about the final dash up the Mountain road, a few miles before the climb on a twisty road this is where Fergus Rooney (Phoenix CC) and Mark Buchanan (North Pole CC) the eventual winner made there move first Fergus Rooney and then Mark Buchanan just gradually road away and joined forces the ride to the finish and battle for gold and silver. I thought they might fade over the climb but despite a frantic chase across the exposed roads, which again split the group into a chasing group of 7 riders, the two leaders had gained enough time. I was in the group of seven but in the final uphill sprint I had nothing left and finished at the back of this bunch in 9th place. Martin O’Brien finished in the next group, in 13th place while Martin Cullinane lead in the third group, Finbar crossed the line some time later with a few others who were all to be congratulated for not letting the tough course get the better of them. Overall it was worth the trip and a good days racing, will we ever win this race after coming close so many times, there’s always next year ! Report: By Conor (if you havent already worked it out) Taken from Comeragh message board.

All Ireland Hill Climb Championship at Mamore Gap,Clonmany,Co.Donegal.

Paul Griffin,Earl of Desmond CC,Tralee wins All Ireland Hill Climb Championship 2009.








Many of Irelands finest hill-climbers found their way to Mamore Gap for the All-Ireland Hill-Climb Championship today Saturday 29th August 2009. A full report and photographs can be found at www.cyclingulster.com/?thenewsid=3525&newstable=news

North Pole cyclists did well with fine performances from Mark Buchanan,Rory Devlin,Kieran Eccles and Danny Mc Laughlin(Dick) all doing the course in under 10 minutes. Sean Bradley and Danny Dick(pictured above) who were recently voted Senior and Junior Cyclists of the Month for August must deserve special mention for their efforts today.Willy John who never shows fear for Mamore Gap was also in action today and received a special prize for his performance. FEEDBACK...........FROM ONE OF THE COMPETITORS.

2009 National Hill Climb Championships - Gap of Mamore

I rode this at the weekend, here is the event from my perspective...

LDB and myself drove up on the Friday evening, arriving at our accomodation at about 11pm. We stayed in a lovely rustic cottage about 1km from the foot of the gap. It was pitch black when we arrived so I couldn't see what the area was like, but it sounded and felt windy!

That night I had a fitful sleep, waking up at 4.30, 5.30, 6.30 and 7.30. It was as if my body didn't trust me to actually get out of bed when the 8.30 alarm went off. It had good reason though, I always hit that snooze button 4 or 5 times. I dreamt that on the way to sign on we ended up driving through fields and parked in someone's back garden, getting changed in their front living room. I've no idea where that one came from.

When I opened my front door in the morning, there it was: The Gap of Mamore. Staring me in the face. It cut up the side of a hill like a nasty scar, dissappearing behind the face of the rock, presumably still going up and up.

I rode towards it to check it out before the event started. It starts at a cross roads and boy does it start! Straight away it's steep. It hits you with two or three ramps and switchbacks. I was taking it handy as this was a re-con mission. There is a small mercy about half way up where there is a downhill part, it's short, but very welcomed. Then it slaps you in the face again with more ramps leading up to a section known as "The Grotto". You can feel the end nearing, but it's hidden over a crest and around the final bend. The last bit looked like it was going to be very tough so I was glad that I took the time to check the climb out and know what was ahead of me. The verdict: it's a nice climb with challenging ramps, steep corners and a stinker of a finish.

When I returned later on for the competition, I was 8th to set off. I had done a good warm up for about 40 minutes. The weather was threatening to rain, but it was holding off and we had a tailwind heading up. I was told that last year there was a headwind. That would not be fun!

The starter, gave me my countdown and I was off. The plan was to keep the HR at about 170 for the first minute or two so that I don't blow up. I was pretty much keeping it about that and was able to maintain a good speed. Then, DISASTER! As I approached the first or second switchback, my left foot unclipped! Christ almighty. I screamed blue murder. My first thought was, that's it, my race is over and I had barely started. Then I thought, well I haven't come all this way to give up, so do something quick! I jumped off the bike and ran with it up past the switchback and jumped back on where it was flatter. I don't know how much time that cost me. I powered up the next few ramps and I'm sure my HR was through the roof, I havn't looked at the detailed stats yet, although my average was 193.

I could see my minute man up ahead and the crowd gathered at the grotto. As I hit the downhill part, I was suffering, and it was still early. I eased off on it and tried to reover in the few seconds it takes to get to the next uphill section. Somewhere along there I passed my minute man. I was seriously putting down the hammer now, giving it absolutely everything. I wanted to finish this with nothing left in the tank. At least that way I know that I gave it my best shot. I approached the grotto and I could see another rider ahead of me. This is where it all becomes a blur. The sum total of my awareness was of the piece of tarmac under my front wheel and the incredible pain I was feeling. I think I passed a second rider. In the furthest part of my brain I was vaguely hearing people clapping and cheering. They might as well have been a million miles away, as I could hardly hear them. But somehow I heard my name called and mangaged to catch a glimpse of a Mapei cap. It was LDB cheering me on. A photographer appeared beneath me, taking this picture. I think my face tells the story. That is sheer and utter pain that you see. I was in complete distress, begging for it all to be over. But I was only just nearing the end of the grotto. There was still the final crest and bend to take.

My body was screaming at me to stop and get off. I really wanted to just fall over. I called out loud to God to help me, but he didn't. I had put myself in this situation, I'm going to have to get out of it on my own. The crowd were yelling 200 meters to go. 200 meters?! For jeesus sake does this thing not end?! I was dying a slow miserable death. 200 meters became 100. I could sense someone walking behind me. They must have been there to catch me in case I fell. 100 meters became 20 meters. People were shouting at me to KEEP GOING KEEP GOING. They are what kept me upright. Without the support I would have given up long ago. I could see the finish ahead of me. Oh thank the stars! I was finished. I stumbled off the bike, dropped it in a small ditch and collapsed beside it, face first in the grass. I lay there for what felt like ages. I tried a few times to get up but I couldn't. I had to wait for my breathing to calm down. Eventually I was able to get to my knees and stand up. That, without a doubt, is the most pain I have ever experienced in all my life.

I had been keeping an eye on my time on the way up and I had been heading for sub 8.30. Last years winning time was 8.43, so I was pleased with my time. Then, as more riders came up, someone put in a time of 6.49! Holy god! Amazing stuff. Even if I hadn't unclipped, there was no way on earth I could come close to that.

Paul Griffen was first and Mark Dowling was second. Ryan Sherlock had come third. Well done Ryan
I got 18th. Full results and some more pictures are here.

Many thanks to the organisers for a great event. You have a fantasic hill on which to hold it, and in my mind, it should be held there every year!
Also thank you to the crowds that cheered the riders on and well done to all riders who took part.

A lot was learned that weekend...
1) there are some savage hill climbers out there!
2) the body can push itself to fantastic limits
3) I wanna do this again next year

Note from Carl
Could this young lady seen here with Willy John,The King of Mamore 2009,be LDB? Laura De Burd?

THANKS FOR THE REPORT,

__________________

Tour of Ireland,2009


Philip Deignan,Letterkenny was the best placed Irish rider in the Tour of Ireland finishing in12th position a mere 68 seconds behind the winner Russell Downing.


Ronan Mc Laughlin,An Post-Sean Kelly Team does some last minute preparations to his bicycle before starting the Bantry to Cork stage of The Tour of Ireland.He is watched by Eileen( cousin) and Sandra and Carl(parents)







Letterkenny man Philip Deignan is surrounded by North Pole wellwishers as he starts the last stage of The Tour of Ireland at Bantry in Co.Cork.L-R,Eileen Mc Laughlin,Philip Deignan,Eileen Fullerton,Sandra McLaughlin,Carl Mc Laughlin and Pat Mc Laughlin.


Ronan looks relaxed as the last stage of the Tour of Ireland starts in Bantry.



Lance Armstrong starts the last stage of the Tour of Ireland at Bantry.



Eileen Fullerton meets Mark Cavendish.

All Ireland Hillclimb and 'B' Championship

The following are contact numbers for the North Pole Management Team for the weekend 29th/30 August.Alarge number of volunteers are still required.Please contact any of the team below if you are willing to help in any way.

Race Director/PRO. Carl Fullerton 086-2788497
Race Start/Finish Organiser Marty Noone 00447973141062
Chief Marshal Edward Doherty 0860833745 volunteer marshals urgently required please call Edward now!
Clerk of the Course Christopher Ward 0877611670
Chief Motor Bike Marshal Paul Devenney 00447923390648

Registration Michael Mc Daid 0868041328,Jacinta O Donnell 0861646664
Catering Manager Josephine Gill 0860812919
Safety Officer Jim Porter 0868050885
Drivers Edward Donaghey 0863155908,Pat Gill 0877705663
Medical Officer Patrick Quinn 0863547339
Broom Wagon Liam O Donnell 0863872180
Race Finish Crew Pat Mc Laughlin 0868314131
Photo finish Dermot Sweeney 0861020464

All Ireland Hill Climb.

Sign-on at 11am Saturday at Rusty Nail Bar which is 2.6k.west of Clonmany Village.(and 5.4k from Strand Hotel).
Hill Climb Start at 12 noon at foot of Mamore Gap(Northern Side) which is 5.3k from sign-on. Finish line is 1.9k up the twisty side at the highest point of the road.Sharp descent for 1.6k follows immediately.Riders will need to be forwarned of this if they wish to cycle back to start via Clonmany(12k.)
This is a climbers course and only a few riders will do it on a 39/23.See report by second placed rider in 2008.
http://northpolecycling.wetpaint.com/page/Praise+For+National+Hill+Climb+Championship
So far there has been about 12 enquiries about this event.I believe that this is not unusual and we should expect no more than 30 visiting cyclists.
For report on 2008 Hill Climb click on
http://www.cyclingulster.com/?thenewsid=2870&newstable=news

For accommodation in Buncrana check following link
www.inishowengateway.com/
Mention North Pole CC and you might get a special rate

All Ireland 'B' Championship:

www.mapmyride.com/ride/ireland/ballyliffin/249124648513723730

Sign on at the Ballyliffin Hotel/Trasna House www.ballyliffinhotel.com/
in Ballyliffin Village from 11am.Sunday. Race starts at 1pm.
Three laps of a 19.88mile circuit with an uphill finish in front of the Ballyliffin Hotel.Quite a bit of interest in this race though it is difficult to guess numbers at this stage. I have a figure of 80 in mind? We used this course for Tour of the Lakes in 2008 but with a finish in Drumfrees which was slightly down hill.Peter Hawkins won the sprint from our own Ronan Mc Laughlin.You can read the Cycling Ulster report on that race on
http://www.cyclingulster.com/?thenewsid=2884&newstable=news
Prizes for first 6 riders across the line and for first 3 unplaced Senior 3(C) riders.


For accommodation in Ballyliffin check following link
http://www.ballyliffingolfclub.com/accommodation.asp
Mention North Pole CC and you might get a special rate


There is no pre-entry for these events.




Saturday 29th August......National HillClimb at Mamore at 12 noon.
For more info click on www.veloraceroute.com/en/sportives/609


Sunday 30th August.........National B Championship at Ballyliffin at 1pm.
Click on link for more info www.veloraceroute.com/en/sportives/606

Wednesday 3rd September......North Pole Road Race at Slab Road.4 laps for Seniors.2 laps for youths.Starts 7pm.sharp.
This race will take place on Wednesdays until further notice.


Sunday 6th September........Tour of Poison Glen.Letterkenny.Four Masters Cycling Club


Sunday 6th September.......Sponsored Cycle at Supervalue,Carndonagh






Scratch group wait patiently for the whistle at Clonmany Festival Cycle Races.



Robert Carter wins Tour of Clonmany------Con Doherty wins Tour of Urris.



Christopher Carter with his parents Robert and Georgina take 3 firsts at the Clonmany Cycle Races.


The Tour of Clonmany was held on Thursday evening 6th August.A total of 70 cyclists signed for the event now in its 4th year.The riders were started in a phased manner with 8 minutes gap between the Ist and last groups.The sctatch group consisting of Paddy Mc Callion,Rory Devlin,Mark Buchanan,Pat Gill ,Jim Doyle and Jason McHugh worked hard to pull down the 4 minute gap given to the 'B' group.At the half-way mark they were 2 minutes adrift but up front a strong bunch had assembled led by Robert Carter.This included Patrick Dick,Danny Hunter,Danny Dick,Glen Mc Daid,Kieran Eccles,Christian Mc Ginley,Troy Hegarty and Omagh Wheelers hard-man Seamus Keenan.Any one of these could have taken the flag but Carter who is presently in top form wanted it more than anyone else and out sprinted the sprinters to take the win.His son Christopher had with his mother Georgina also won their races making it a family affair for the Carters.

RESULTS...........Tour of Clonmany 34k.

1. Robert Carter
   
2. Patrick Mc Laughlin
   
3. Danny Hunter
   
4. Glen Mc Daid
   
5. Kieran Eccles
   
6. Christian Mc Ginley
   
7. Troy Hegarty
   
8. Matthew Mc Dowell
   
9. Seamus Keenan
   
10. Danny McLaughlin
    
    
    

Unplaced Junior......Danny Dick
Unplaced Vet.....Seamus Keenan
Unplaced Lady.....Joanne Doran
Unplaced Visitor....Troy Hegarty
Unplaced North Poler....Glen Mc Daid
Unplaced Supervet.....Eunan Devenney


Results............Tour of Urris 20k.

Under 12

1. Christopher Carter
   
2. Barry Grant
   
3. Joseph Doherty.
   
   
   

Under 14

1. Con Doherty
   
2. Aaron McBride
   
3. Aiden Noone
   
   
   

Under 16

1. Dylan Gill
   
2. Andrew Graham
   
3. Shane Mc Laughlin
   
   
   

Ladies

1. Georgina Dixon
   
2. Claire Mc Carron
   
3. Jackie Dixon/Margaret Dixon(Tie)
   
   
   

Mens

1. Robert Mc Laughlin
   
2. Anthony Mc Laughlin
   
3. Barry Grant
   
   
   

Patricia Doherty is the proudest Granny in Urris after Grandson Con wins the Jimmy Devlin Cup and the Under 14 Trophy in the Tour of Urris.





Ballyliffin Challenge 50k. Road Race on Sunday 9th August at North Pole Bar.





Bernard Doherty (Billy) led the race as it passed through the outskirts of Clonmany at mile 15.

Results.

1. Mark Buchanon 1hr.25mins. 36kph
   
2. Patrick Mc Laughlin(Dick)
   
3. Matthew Mc Dowell +1'30"
   
4. Pat Gill s/t
   
5. Patrick Mc Callion s/t
   
6. Daniel Mc Laughlin(Dick)
   
7. Glen Mc Daid
   
8. Seamus Murphy
   
9. Vincent Mc Carron
   
10. Kieran Eccles
    
11. Philip Porter
    
12. Jim Porter
    
13. Pat Doherty
    
14. Cathal Wilson
    
15. Edward Noone
    
16. Christopher Ward
    
17. Eddie Doherty
    
18. Shane Mc Laughlin(Bill)
    
19. Jimmy Mc Laughlin
    
20. Willy John Mc Laughlin
    
21. Aaron Mc Bride
    
22. Joanne Doran
    
23. Bernard Doherty
    
24. Brendan Duffy
    
25. Davy Mc Laughlin(Bill)
    
26. Paddy O Donnell
    
27. Charlie Mc Daid
    
28. Ivan Wray
    
29. Karol Doherty....Hand cyclist.
    
    
    

44 Starters.....15 Did not finish.




Mark Buchanan builds a lead of 2 minutes at mile 23.and holds it till the race finish.





Patrick Mc Laughlin gets the sprint for 2nd place from Matthew Mc Dowell,Pat Gill and Patrick Mc Callion.


What's on next ?.

• Inter-club Time Trial at Burt at 7pm.on Wednesday 29th July.
  
• RESULT-----1st North Pole CC, 2nd Foyle Cycling Club, 3rd Roe Valley CC.
  
• Clonmany 20 mile Festival Races at Clonmany Festival on Thursday 6th August.
  
• Race format will be the same as last year.There will be 2 races.
  
• 1.TOUR of CLONMANY.Seniors will race over the Clonmany-Drumfrees-Carndonagh-Ballyliffin-Clonmany course.This race will be confined to those with club racing licences and the normal 'Club Race'limit of a maximum of 6 participating clubs will apply.There will be 4 or possibly 5 groups starting this race at intervals appropriate to each riders past form.Time gaps and composition of each group will be decided by the handicapper.There will be a prize fund of up to €400 with prizes going to 1st,2nd and 3rd Overall,and for the rest prizes for -1st Lady,1st Vet,1st Junior,1st Northpoler,1st Visitor,1st Supervet(50+),1st Master(60+).No competitor may claim more than 1 of the above prizes and the prize will go to the next placed rider in that category should that arise.
  
• 2.TOUR of URRIS.Youth riders will race over the Urris circuit.Non competitive adults may also take part in this event.There will be prizes for all youth categories.
  
• The following marshals will be on duty in Clonmany. .
  
• Rory Devlin
  
• Edward Doherty
  
• Kenny Doyle
  
• Christy Doherty
  
• Peter Mc Laughlin
  
• Brendan Duffy
  
• Daniel Doherty Sr
  
• Eunan Mc Laughlin
  
• Willy John Mc Laughlin
  
• Daniel Mc Gonagle
  
• Should any marshal be unable to attend on the day they are asked to arrange for a suitable replacement. All marshals are asked to be present at 6pm. More volunteers are required to ensure a safer event so please put your name forward if you are available.
  
• Those whose names were drawn for marshal duties for this event will not be picked for similar duties for the remainder of 2009.