QF Focus Magazine Get on yer Bike.
Monthly cycling tips / advice by Gary and Lynn, “Cyclogical” Quesada.
2nd Marcha Cicloturistica Albudeite Rio-Mula Cycle Sportif.
On Sunday 5th March, thirteen members of Team “Cyclogical” based in Ciudad Quesada travelled to Albudeite in Murcia to participate in the 2nd Marcha Cicloturistica, Albudeite Rio-Mula Sportif. When we arrived at 7am it was like a ghost town and freezing cold, in fact there was not a cloud in the sky but the sun had started to pop up and it looked like it was going to be a beautiful day. The race was well organised and started 15 mins late at 9.15am with a mass start following the pace car which was brilliant and the group soon thinned out as many of us left the town and started climbing. The pace car kept slowing down to make sure everyone was together as part of the Police requirements at some of these events. There were approx 200 riders participating and 2 of our guys, Rob Ford and Steve Snook, were taking part in their first event and were both a bit nervous at the start, but soon settled in and found their own pace. The route was well sign posted with plenty of helpers, dispatch riders and police motorcycles to marshal the route, every village and town that we passed through had most of the village out shouting us on. The course covered a total distance of 95kms with just over 1200 metres of climbing involved which was an easy route and ideal for beginners. Most of the route was neutralised (following a pace car) but there were various parts where we were free running including a timed 10km hill climb with an average gradient of 7%. Most of the fitter guys all sprinted up here to try and secure a trophy. At the half way point there was a compulsory food and water stop for approx 30 mins which also allowed the slower riders to catch up. One of our first timers, Steve Snook has only been cycling a road bike for 6 months and did really well considering the undulating route. Him and Rob both performed really well and were delighted with themselves, as it is at an event like this that you find out just how fit you are, as you can compare your ability against others and not just your own guys. Once we had all crossed the finish line we had baguettes, beer and music before the prize giving ceremony. Mickey was our oldest rider at 78 years young and was presented with a lovely trophy for being the oldest competitor. Harry and Dom our youngest 2 riders sprinted up the hill climb with Dom finishing 8th and 5th in his class narrowly missing the podium. I managed to get 2nd it my class and received a nice trophy, Mike Wilks got the Pink Jersey (king of the mountains) and we also got a serano ham for having the largest team. “Well done everyone and here’s to the next one.” The team who took part were: Martyn Stone, Paul Cameron, Steve (turbo) Buckley, Richard Binns, Gary Routledge, Dave (sniffer) Robertson, Graham Kinghorn, Steve Snook, Mickey Whybrow, Rob Ford, Dom TJ, Harry Morrow and Mike Wilks. Team “Cyclogical” meet every Tuesday and Thursday nights at 5.30pm and Sunday mornings at 8am and cover between 90 and 120kms at a moderate to fast pace, so if you fancy a challenge come along and join us. Looking to improve your fitness, riding ability and speed and also have a new group of friends to train with then why not come along and give it a try or call Gary on 637 487 377.
Answers to Sudoku & Spot the Difference
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