Getting down and dirty this winter
With the road season now drawing to a close many cyclists looking for other options to enjoy their winter cycling and build fitness are faced with a number of different options.
Mountain biking is a great way to get out in a very healthy environment and stay fit in a very enjoyable way.
This coming Sunday October 8th sees South Tipp Cycling Club promote the fifth round of the Polygon Grassroutes Gravity Enduro series.
The action kicks off at 10am. The Grassroots Enduro Series is run by local clubs with the single goal of encouraging anyone, regardless of age or gender, to try off road racing in its simplest format. For those who are new to the Mountain bike scene, the Enduro format has riders racing against the clock in stages that are primarily downhill, with neutral “transfer” stages in between.
With over 170 riders from all over Ireland signed up, South Tipperary Cycling Club will be delighted to welcome Leah Maunsell and her brother Jonathan who are just home from the Enduro World Series in Italy. After her race in Italy, Leah finished up in an incredible 4th place in the world u-21 Women’s category. Leah and Jonathan will be joined by other notable riders such as Michael Lee, Gavin O Connell and Jason Murphy.
The Club would like any spectators who attend to bring bells, whistles and any other items that make noise to help roar on the riders as they pass by in the wooded trails. Entry for spectators is free and a great family day out is guaranteed.
Another fantastic off road event and the biggest off road sportive in Ireland, The Nire Valley Drop sees preparations fully underway with record numbers expected for this years event which marks the 6th anniversary.
With options of a 35k and a 55k route hundreds of serious and not so serious off road cyclists will all get to enjoy the thrills and excitement along with some of the most majestic untouched scenery that Ireland has to offer. The reward at the end of the finest food to be seen at any cycling event this side of Gordan Ramseys kitchen makes it all well worthwhile. You can enter online here now
Cyclocross is another form of winter cycling that has really increased in popularity here in Ireland over recent years with events now selling out around the country with races taking place in Clonmel promoted by Clonmel Cycling Club on October 22nd and in Drombane, Thurles on Sunday November 26th which is the Munster Cyclocross Championship and promoted by Upperchurch Drombane Cycling Club. These are great spectator friendly events that are enjoyable for all of the family.
Whatever you do, keep fit and enjoy the winter. There are no excuses.
Barry
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