Dromore CC's David and Andy shine at West Down GP

Dromore CC's elite road racers on the starting line

Both raced in the M50 masters race. It was a tough circuit with some tight racing due to the stiff headwind on Katesbridge straight, all of the attacks being closed down quickly which lead to a big bunch sprint won by the very able Benny O’Kane.

Both Andy and Dave finished strongly in the bunch with Dave managing to snag 5th place again.

The club was well supported by the Lindsay, Batey, and McCartan families amongst others, and indeed Peter Batey and Roger McCartan were very capable and much needed marshalls for the race.

Ten days ago a strong team of racers from Dromore CC took part in West Down Wheelers Cycling Club’s Aussie pursuit cycle race.

Setting off from the A1 bridge on the Rathfriland Road, the route took the riders down to Rathfriland and back up to the A1 bridge on Castlewellan Road.

The hill in Rathfriland thinned the initial groups out and set up new groups for the ride back to town.

First off the line was the inimitable Andrea, again the only lady taking part.

Someone observed that she was the rabbit to the following hounds...

Of particular interest at the start line was the prospect of the keenly anticipated head-to-head battle between DCC’s Peter Batey and Ian Walker.

Four groups set off at 2-4 minute intervals with the scratch (fastest) riders taking up the rear. The timing of the intervals were spot on with most of the riders hitting the finish line around the same time in a fast bunch sprint.

Bookies outsider Peter crossed the line ahead of Ian in a very strong finish. David Burnside also put in his usual strong ride finishing in the leading group. Terry Mackin punctured near Len McCoy’s and after a quick tube change got home without further incident. It was good to see Eric Tommasini turn up on time to complete the full circuit. Andy Liggett, Joe O’Neill, Stuart Martin, and Roger Mccartan also put in very strong performances.

Big thanks again from Dromore Cycling Club to the West Down Wheelers Cycling Club for hosting some great events.