Club Spin 31st March (2)

While temperatures had dropped considerably it didn’t deter the hardy annuals from taking in some good quality climbing.(Richie, Paul, Michael, Martin and myself.) The first assent of the day was Kilmashogue Lane, scene of the 2011 National Hill Climb Championships. This set the scene for the remainder of the spin!!

A relatively short climb circa 2km with an average gradient of 9.6% rising to 16% near the end! It felt every bit of it!! The stress of the climb took its toll on Michaels bike with some serious road side repairs being carried out with military precision after the fast decent!

Our next ascent took us over Cruagh mountain and the viewing point from where we dropped down to the outskirts of Tallaght only to start the climb to the Military Road via Bohernabreena Road.

Then on to Glenasmole where ewes with their newly born lambs grazed happily by the side of the road just inches from the wheels of the silent carbon machines as they made their way up the short, sharp, steep section of the climb. Having reached the entrance to Kippure mast in a relatively modest time we headed for the Sally Gap.

We met Dave on his way back from his morning spin as he meticulously planned his strategy for next day’s race, with traces of chocolate cake still visible on his handlebars!! We made our way home through Manor Kilbride and recounted the many club league race wins for the Tiernans colours………