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Some members of Blackwater Cycling Club ahead of their cycle to the Ballyclough/Doneraile area last Sunday Photo: John Browne

There’s an open invitation to anybody interested in cycling to take up membership of the newly established Blackwater Cycling Club in Killavullen.

"It was started just over three weeks ago but already has amassed a membership of thirty with twenty more in the pipeline," says chairman John Browne.

“It’s not competitive and more about getting people fit as well as getting them out and about. Our members range from pupils in 1st year in secondary school to those who are retired. The club has three groups into which members are categorised: Group A encompasses those who can cycle 18-20 km/h, Group B – 21-25 km/h and Group C – 25 km/h upwards. It’s entirely possible to start off in Group A and end up in Group C although most members stay in Group B,” he said.

Club members meets at the church gate in Killavullen and pick various routes for their cycles although the Ballyhooly and Glanworth areas are popular. They usually cycle for an hour and a half. John explains that the distance covered depends on experience but emphasises that members don’t necessarily have to fork out huge sums on equipment.

“Any road bike will do although some members do have expensive bikes. The average ones range in price from €500 up.”

The club, which has its own emblem, is planning on doing four or five cycle sportives in the Munster area such as the Ring of Kerry and the Rebel Tour. Interestingly they also cater for mountain biking with Joe Taylor being credited as the expert there. The club currently has an equal mix of male and female members across all three groups but expects that to increase significantly.

Those interested in joining are advised to pick up an application form in Blackwater Valley Cycles in Killavullen and to check their Facebook page. Membership costs €50 for the year, €30 of which goes to Cycling Ireland for insurance purposes.

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