Sligo Triathlon Club

Go to sligotriathlon.ie

2012-02-12T13:14:00.000-08:00

This blog is no longer being updated, please go to www.sligotriathlon.ie for the latest news from Sligo Triathlon Club.

Training Days

2012-02-12T12:27:00.000-08:00

Beginners/Newcomers - Saturday 24th of February

Basic bike fit, transition practice, tri programme, cycling skills, cycling session, running session, basic sports nutrition & strength and conditioning

Focus on practical sessions

Intermediates/Advanced - Sunday 25th of February

strength & conditioning, hill running session, running form & drills, coached cycling session, identifying training zones, interval training, quick transitions and season planning.

Focus on practical sessions

Venue- Sligo Sports Complex

10-4pm
Bring you own lunch
€10 for club members
€20 for non club members
Level 2 Tri Coaches - Colm & Ronan
Bring all relevant equipment and gear changes (Shower available)

Book a place by emailing

Colm or Ronan

Rosses Point Olympic & Sprint Triathlons open for entry

2012-02-10T14:37:00.000-08:00

One of Ireland's original Triathlon events takes place once again in Rosses Point, County Sligo on the weekend of 4 - 5 August with the Olympic event taking place on the Saturday and the Sprint event on the Sunday. Entry prices for both events are a very reasonable €45 for individual entries and €60 for relay teams. Entry is now open on www.triathlonireland.

Be Careful at Hazlewood

2012-02-09T05:28:00.000-08:00

If you're running at hazlewood please be careful.
Two people have broken bones out there this week having slipped
It's very wet and muddy with lots of tree roots exposed so is dangerous.
So either find somewhere a bit grippier or be very careful
We had a club member break bones there last year as well.
It's a lovely route but as you can see needs caution.

The great Sligo Tri Quiz

2012-02-05T12:43:00.000-08:00

This blog will shortly be winding up and will no longer be updated, we are running a quiz on the new site to mark the change; it's a season opener with a fitting test of local tri sport knowledge, visit the club site for more information -if you are a club member just register a username and log in to be in with achance of winning.
Note; for the 2012 racing season to find the latest club news visit:
The club website
or bookmark
www.sligotriathlon.ie/rss.xml
or register for mail updates on the club website.

I think i need to replenish my electrolytes....

2012-01-31T02:59:00.000-08:00

Brian posted this in the forums but just in case anyone hasn't signed up here it is.
Too good to miss, hilarious
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1KTEgLKhjIw&feature=player_embedded

Boyle Charity Duathlon

2012-01-30T03:36:00.001-08:00

The Boyle Charity Duathlon takes place on Sunday 6th May in Lough Key Forest Park, Boyle. The race is a sprint distance 5k run 20k cycle 2.5k run and follows the same route as previous years. The charity supported this year is The Ciara Grehan Foundation in association with Ability West. No race licence required and entry cost 25 euro.

For more information and to register please log onto www.runireland.com, places filling up quickly.

All club members are encourages to support this worthy cause and great event that is being organised by club members David Gunning and Tommy Sheridan.

Saturday Coached Swim Session

2012-01-27T04:17:00.001-08:00

The 7-8pm saturday evening session remains coached but is now a "casual" one.
Doesn't mean its going to be easy though!

Drop in on the night, as often or as little as you please.
No obligation to go certain weeks and no sign up. The charge is a very reasonable €7 considering a member of the public pays €6 to get in the water without any tuition.
You do of course need to be a member of Sligo Triathlon Club.

For further information contact Kevin O'Donnell.

Running Session Thurs moved to Sports Complex

2012-01-24T02:18:00.000-08:00

the club running session has been moved to the sports complex this Thursday evening @1900 to coincide with the meeting.

Sun 22 Jan Cycle Route

2012-01-21T06:04:00.000-08:00

Approx 60km Around Carney and Mullaghmore, great scenery and company

9am Sligo IT meet up,

No one gets left behind.

Club Coached Running Session 7pm Tonight

2012-01-19T09:07:00.001-08:00

At Sligo IT, meeting at Knocknarae Arena 7pm, all members welcome.

Club Turbo Sessions

2012-01-16T14:06:00.000-08:00

Turbo for this term starts this coming Wednesday Jan 18th at Sligo IT from 7pm. Please get there at least 15minutes early in order to set yourself up.
Payment for the 11 week term is 35 euro and you can pay on pay pal (below).
The format for the class is:

30 minutes circuit class with club coach Sean Flannery.
1 hour turbo with club coach Colm Casey and then a cool down.
It's a great mid-week work out so be sure to come along if you can. You won't regret it next summer!!!!

Couple these sessions with the club Sunday cyles and you'll really see the results in 11 weeks.

Pay here via PayPal:

How To Avoid Punctures on The Bike

2012-01-16T04:40:00.001-08:00

Stephen from Chain Driven has kindly agreed to post a series of articles on bike equipment on our new website (which will shortly be taking over from this blog).

The info is brand neutral and will always give a range of the options out there.
The purpose of them is to keep people up to speed on things in the world of bike equipment. With this in mind you can find the first article here . This info can always be found by clicking the sponsors logo or navigating to the 'Stephen Mullanes bike info' page in the menu (on the left).

Swimming update

2012-01-15T07:12:00.000-08:00

The new swim term began last week. The link to PayPal to pay in advance for the sessions is on the left of this blog (apologies for the delay!). The numbers seem to be down on Wednesday/Saturday session from last term. The sessions are very good value for money in comparsion to the sligo swim club, leisure centres, sports complex or any other tri clubs. We are just covering the costs of the pool/coaches. It would be a shame to lose hours so spread the word if you know anyone who is interest in participating.

The term will be 12 weeks commencing Tue 10th Jan 8am session. The price is €95. Same times as last term Tue 8am, Wed 10pm, Thur 8am, Fri 7pm, Sat 7pm & Sun 7:50pm. The Wednesday sessions have 2 coaches so there will be a specific lane for beginners to work on technique. So if you are struggling in the water that session might be a little be more benificial. The other lanes in the session will cater for more experienced swimmers. The same as last term.

For insurance purposes All swimmers must be a club member (you can join by downloading the membership form, paying the €40 annual fee & bringing it along to the session -to the left of this blog). You must also be at least an associate member of Triathlon Ireland (€5.00) ( see the TI website for details ).

Rosses Point - Duathlon 2012

2012-01-12T08:32:00.000-08:00

Sligo Triathlon Club starts off the club race season with the Rosses Point Duathlon on Saturday, 10^th March at 12pm. This race will be great performance tester for those of you preparing for the upcoming season, and to see if the winter training has paid off. The course will be based on a similar course to Rosses Point Sprint Triathlon, so it is definitely recommended for those of you giving that a go this year.

Race Route:

The race will start with a 5km run following a circular route from the transition at the beach car park around Rosses Point village. Very similar to the Rosses Point sprint course. Competitors will then return to transition for the cycle leg. The cycle route leaves transition towards Sligo taking a left at Cregg. Then taking the right along the lower Rosses Point road. Followed by another right which will take competitors towards Sligo again. A sharp descent will lead back onto the main Rosses Point road where, taking another right, the route travels straight back to transition. The same route as the sprint race minus the trip to Cartron. The final 2.5km run will be an out and back of the 2^nd beach.

Race Details:

Competitors can register for the race on the Triathlon Ireland web site http://www.triathlonireland.com/. Entry will cost €20. As usual, a one day licence (€10) or full membership (€50) of triathlon Ireland will be required to compete. Just waiting on TI to put the link on their website and the event is open. Please pass the word around.

On the day, sign on will take place in the Yacht Club from 9am-11am. Race briefing will take place at 11.30am. Race start 12.00pm. Showers & refreshments will be available in the Yacht Club after the event. Entry will include a customary technical t-shirt. The club will also be holding a social on the saturday vening in our club sponsors Mc Hughs bar. We will be awarding the prize for club duathletes of the year.

Hope to see you there!

Try A Tri Event 15th April

2012-01-10T14:10:00.000-08:00

Sligo Triathlon Club - Try a Tri

The Race
Sligo Triathlon Club are proud to announce the launch of their annual Try a Tri super sprint. As most of you know the race is designed to encourage people who are new to the world of Triathlon to get out there and give it a go. To give them that added incentive to get involved, the club organises a pool based triathlon allowing the triathletes to get used to swimming longer distances with other people in the safe warm environment of a swimming pool. The overall distances are shorter than a usual sprint distance race. The swim will be 250m or 10 lengths of the pool, followed by a short but tough 10km cycle and finishes with a refreshing 4km run on the race course tarmac path (2 laps). The race is open to anyone over 16 years of age. (parental consent will be required for 16-18yrs)

The Where:
Below we have shown a course maps of the event which will take place at the Regional Sports and Leisure Centre where the 25m pool will be used. Followed by the cycle route which will take you out of the leisure centre, past the Grave Yard, toward the Carraroe Roundabout, onto Aughamore, then the Holy Well Rd and back to the Leisure Centre where you begin the 4km run around the race course and finish back at the leisure centre. Phew! Transition area is located in the carpark of the leisure centre.

The When:
The Race will be held on Sunday the 15th April, registration will commence at 8:30 on the day, followed by the race briefing at 9:30 and the race will commence at 10:00am sharp. The swim will be run in waves of 25 people, 5 to a lane, so donʼt worry it will be a very civilized affair. Triathletes will be allocated a lane based on their swim ability.

The How:
The race can be entered by logging onto the Triathlon Ireland web site, click on the Race entry Tab and follow the instructions. The following is very important: if you are not a full Triathlon member you will have to take out a one day license in order to enter the event, the entry system will walk you through this. This costs €15 per race or you can become a full member and enter as many races in 2012 as you like for €50. These costs are outside our control and Sligo Triathlon club have no say in this matter. If you donʼt have a one day license or full membership you canʼt enter the race. For this reason we cannot accept entries on the day so please donʼt ask. Entry will open for the race on Monday the 16th January and will close on Monday the 2nd April. The places are limited so please donʼt be disappointed and book your place as soon as possible.

The How Much:
We make every effort to keep the cost low given the current economic situation, entry will therefore be a flat €25 (plus your one day license fee to Triathlon Ireland). In return you will receive your entry to the race, your time splits, a small goody bag, a t-shirt, a cuppa tea
and a sticky bun after the race! Hope youʼll join us on the day and come along to cheer on the competitors! Thank you!

Carrick 10k road run 2012

2012-01-10T02:08:00.000-08:00

The 4th Annual Carrick-On- Shannon 10K Road Race and Walk will be held on Sunday 4th March 2012. Proceeds go to the Irish Cancer Society.

Start and Finish at Aura Leisure, race start is at 11am.
Parking available at Bank of America, Entry on the day €10 or online via the runireland website.

Post Race Refreshments will be provided, for further information contact Chris on 0868423610 or Graham on 0868400296, or E-mail finlayscottage@yahoo.com.

Good turn out for club spin yesterday

2012-01-09T07:55:00.000-08:00

Great turn out at yesterdays club cycle, over 20 people took part, after the intitial loop of the lake (40km) some more continued on for a longer spin. No one was or will be left behind in these cycles, the group leaves sligo IT at 9am sharp sunday mornings with our cycling co ordinator stephen heading up the bunch.

Cycle Route 8th Jan 2012

2012-01-07T08:58:00.000-08:00

Tomorrow's club cycle will kick off as usual at sligo IT leaving at 9am. first lap will be 36km round the lake then onwards for a total of 113km
Good option to do lap one and end up back at the IT. No one will be left behind, you will not end up on your own regardless of pace so don't worry about that.
here's the route thanks to our cycling officer stephen

New swim coaching term

2012-01-03T12:23:00.000-08:00

The new swim term begins next week. The link to PayPal to pay in advance for the sessions is on the left of this blog (apologies for the delay!). The numbers seem to be down on Wednesday/Saturday/Sunday session from last term. The sessions are very good value for money in comparsion to the sligo swim club, leisure centres, sports complex or any other tri clubs. We are just covering the costs of the pool/coaches. It would be a shame to lose hours so spread the word if you know anyone who is interest in participating.

The term will be 12 weeks commencing Tue 10th Jan 8am session. The price is €95. Same times as last term Tue 8am, Wed 10pm, Thur 8am, Fri 7pm, Sat 7pm & Sun 8pm. The Wednesday & Sunday sessions have 2 coachs so there will be a specific lane for beginners to work on technique. So if you are struggling in the water that session will be a little easier. The other lanes in the session will cater for more experienced swimmers. The same as last term. For insurance purposes All swimmers must be a club member (you can join by downloading the membership form, paying the €40 annual fee & bringing it along to the session -to the left of this blog). You must also be at least an associate member of Triathlon Ireland (€5.00) ( see the TI website for details ).

Results from December Swim Time Trial 400m

2011-12-30T11:13:00.000-08:00

Well done to everyone who took part in the recent pool time trial.
There were some swimmers with excellent improvements in their times.
Great to see so many taking part, especially so many new faces.
Next one will be in february or march.
The splits will be emailed out and are a valuable way of assessing performance.

	Name	Time
1	Shane O'Doherty	05:16:00
2	Sheila Ryan	06:03:00
3	Kevin O'Donnell	06:06:00
4	Cecelia McGuiness	06:26:00
5	Donncha O'Connor	06:28:00
6	Lynsey Dunne	06:40:00
7	Martha VDM	06:41:00
8	Aonghus Collins	06:41:00
9	Brian Sexton	06:49:00
10	Niamh O'Connor	06:51:00
11	John Burrows	06:51:00
12	Eamon McAndrew	06:56:00
13	Brian Gill	07:09:00
14	David Gormley	07:09:00
15	Jana Drese	07:12:00
16	Anthony Blake	07:24:00
17	Andy Hamilton	07:25:00
18	Edel Hunt	07:31:00
19	John Elliott	07:33:00
20	Mary Kehoe	07:34:00
21	Fergal Keane	07:44:00
22	Noel Keaveney	07:51:00
23	Ashley Henry	08:02:00
24	Tim McCarthy	08:05:00
25	Vario Donadoni	08:40:00
26	Jude Devins	08:50:00
27	Catherine mcglinchey	09:10:00
28	Trevor Hunter	09:14:00
29	Craig Brennan	09:38:00
30	Barry Cosgrove	09:51:00
31	Terry Cosgrove	10:28:00
32	Ken O'Neil	10:48:00

Congradulations

2011-12-27T03:00:00.000-08:00

Congradulations go to club stalwarths Colm and his bride to be Cathy on their recent engagement; best wishes from all in the club!

Turkey Time Trial

2011-12-27T02:56:00.000-08:00

For those of you who missed it, the Turkey TT was a great success; highly recommended to everyone for next time around... all contestants ended up with prizes!

The following report is from the Eire Og website, thanks to Darragh and the Eire Og crew for a great St.Stephens day lung buster...

"After almost 20 years on the shelf the Johnny Davey Cup has been resurected for 2011 in the guise of a novelty time trial where riders must guess their times to win a prize. Top prize for the TT was a Christmas turkey won by none other than local TT specialist Michael Devins who was only 16 seconds shy of his estimated time.

On a cold and windy morning at Rosses Point 15 riders took to the starting blocks and raced hell for leather into Sligo and back. Luckily the rain held off and all riders enjoyed the challenge. In the scramble for prizes Devins was closest to the mark at only 16 seconds from his prediction with Alan kelly hot on his heels a mere 1 second adrift being only 17 seconds away from his own predicted time. An other man who is no stranger to time trials , Brian Sexton, was a further second adrift at 18 seconds. 3 seconds seperated the first 3 riders on the day. Great performance from all involved. A notable mention must go to Keelan Mooney, the youngest rider in the event who flew in from Switzerland to participate in his first bike race, being a Mooney no doubt it will not be his last..!

A big thanks to the race marshalls and helpers on the day."

Johnny Davey Cup, Turkey Time Trial 2011

Paul Flynn 23:15
Pat Moffatt 24:38
Alan Kelly 24:33
Keelan Mooney 29:40
Conor Sheridan 32:02
Brendan Brogan 32:23
Rory Conor 23:22
Brien Sexton 20:48
Tim Mc Carthy 25:05
Aishan Patil 27:57
Jake Mc Guinn 29:10
Oisin Mooney 25:12
Michal Rogers :) 19:46

Injury Prevention in Swimming

2011-12-22T12:49:00.000-08:00

Injury Prevention in Swimming - Sligo Tri Club Swim Coach Shane O'Doherty

Don't wait until an injury crops up, swim smart, prevention is as always better than cure.
Make sure to talk to a qualified physio if you require treatment.

I didn't think you could get injured swimming?
First off, swim injuries are rare, much more so than in running as an example. Don't let injuries put you off. Swimming is often used as a component of rehabiliation programs for injuries from other sports.

What type of injuries can occur?

By far the most common type of injuries are those to the shoulder, notably the rotator cuff group of muscles. The shoulder is a complex ball and socket joint heavily used while swimming. The rotator cuff muscles are surprisingly small which makes them vulnerable.

Less common are injuries to the capsular ligaments of the knee which I won't go into here.

How do these injuries happen?

Repetition: Swimming involves repetetive movements of the body. In an average session an intermediate level swimmer can take up to 2400 strokes. Stroke mechanics put pressure on the shoulder while the arm is in an awkward position. An experienced club swimmer is used to this, someone learning to swim or improving is not.
Address by: Be careful not to overtrain, listen to your body, always warm up and talk to club coaches about training load.

Hand entry: If your hand enters the water with thumbs first and at right angles to the water you are putting a lot of stress on your shoulders. A flatter hand entry greatly reduces the strain on the shoulder and gets the hand in position for a good catch. See diagram below.

Address by: Stalled entry drills, use a float and fins for these. Have somone watch you.

Crossing: The the hand enters the water on the opposite side of the centre line (lower image). Not only does this strain the shoulders, it also greatly increases your drag and slows you down.

Address by: Try aiming to stroke wider than normal, this will feel unusual but try it and have someone watch while you do it.

In addition, a straight arm pull places a lot of stress on the shoulder and should be avoided by always breaking at the elbow during the catch phase.

Sympathies

2011-12-22T09:28:00.000-08:00

Sympathies go to club member Kieran Fitzgerald who's father John sadly passed away recently.
Kieran and his son Liam are both regulars at the Sligo Tri Club Swim Series.

Photos from Ladies Initiative

2011-12-20T09:20:00.000-08:00

Here are some excellent photos from the Sligo Tri Club Ladies Initiative, supported by Sligo Sports and Recreation Partnership. They were taken by local photographer and club member Mark Capillitan. The photos are here on Mark's website. Password: ssrp

Please check out his other work too.

We hope that everyone who took part is looking forward to taking part in the slightly longer try a tri in the spring.

Bike training (18th) cancelled...

2011-12-17T14:00:00.000-08:00

Its freezing hard at the moment (Saturday night @ 10pm) so tomorrow mornings bike spin has been cancelled due to safety concerns.

Turkey Time Trial

2011-12-15T14:43:00.000-08:00

The Eire Og Cycling Club will be holding a Christmas Turkey race on Monday December 26th at Rosses point , Co. Sligo.

Sign on from 12 with race start at 1pm.

The format will be a 14km time trial, riders must guess there time before the start with prizes being given to the riders who are closest to their estimate. It goes without saying that no watches or speedometers may be used during the event. Everybody is in with a chance for a prize no matter how slow or fast you may be.

Lots of prizes up for grabs including the Turkey and also the Johnny Davey Cup will make a welcome return to the racing scene in Sligo. The Davey Cup will be presented to the fastest rider on the day. Last man to hold this trophy is none other than local time trial legend Michael Devins. After a weeks winter training in Lazerote he will be hard beaten. Maybe a few of our lads might be tempted to check out their new and improved positions and see if any free speed has been gained.

Triathlon Ireland Event Calendar Released

2011-12-15T10:50:00.000-08:00

The triathlon ireland calendar is now out, here's the irish triathlon calendar as well
There's tonnes of events on and a few that will be added soon so we're spoiled for choice.
Mullaghmore is not on the TI list yet but is on Sat 16th June
Local highlights include:

Rosses Point (Sprint & Olympic)
Mullaghmore (Sprint)
Westport (Sprint)
Lough Key (Sprint)
Blacksod (Olympic)
Humbert Challenge (Sprint & Half Ironman)
Letterkenny (Sprint)
Ballina (Sprint)
Cong (Sprint)

It's good to support local events and events run by Triathlon clubs, the money then goes back into the sport unlike the commercial events where it goes to the promoter. Worth checking this beforehand.

The details of the Try a Tri event will be out soon and is an excellent way to get ready for your first triathlon in the summer. This event has a shorter pool swim and shortened run and bike.

The club will also be running training events for members only.
These include the Duathlon Series, Bike Time Trials and Swim Series. These are a great way to get sharpened and ready for the summer season and really suitable for all abilites.
Details on all these will follow.

Last Sundays training Spin

2011-12-14T01:37:00.001-08:00

Thanks go to assistant club secretary Dermot Cunningham for this report on last Sundays bike training; even though we are getting into party season this training will continue, and is the perfect way to kill off a hangover/ excess of food intake!

'Sunday spin, December 11th 2011.
We started our 40k journey from the IT Car Park as light rain continued to fall. But wearing the correct waterproofs and with my newly fitted back mudguard, (from Chain Driven Cycles of course) we were good to go. We decided to do the loop around the lake, and with the pace beginner friendly, a really enjoyable couple of hours were spent by our group.

I wasn't a great lover of cycling, and prefer swimming and running, but after the spin this morning, I think I'll be spending more time in the saddle. Our Cycling Co-ordinator Stephen Mullane gave each member some good advice a long the way, and with the theme of "nobody will be left behind", the numbers from our Club on meeting up for the Sunday morning spin should increase.

If more experienced Club members want to up the pace, and go longer, they can be accommodated, but beginners and less experienced cyclists will always be especially welcome.

With the Santa Charity 5k run on next Sunday morning, I'll unfortunately miss the cycle, but I hope to return for my Sunday morning spins in January.'

Pool Time Trial 7:50pm Saturday - Sligo Regional Sports Centre

2011-12-13T06:01:00.000-08:00

The fourth pool 400m TT is taking place on Saturday at 6:50pm in Sligo Regional Sports Centre.
Warm up begins at 6:50 and finishes at 7pm, make sure you're there on time or you won't get a chance to warm up.
There is a Club Social directly afterwards in McHughs bar, we should be there for about half past eight or nine.
There is going to be a good turn out with about 40 members planning to take part so it should be a good one, there's loads of space in spectator area if anyone would like to bring support.

Any questions to KEVINMODONNELL@HOTMAIL.COM

Last club session this year is Thursdays 22nd Dec morning session. More info on next years classes to follow.

National Series Races and Dates Announced

2011-12-12T09:52:00.000-08:00

Sprint

19^th May - Zurich Valentia Island Triathlon

27^th May – Northwest Sprint/Liam Ball

3^rd June – TriAthy Sprint

16^th June – Hook or By Crook

30^th June – triAthlone Sprint

28^th July – King of the Hill Triathlon, Kilsale

5^th August – Brian Boru Sprint

15^th September – Pulse Triathlon

Olympic

29^th April – Joey Hannan (standard)

2^nd June – TriAthy Olympic

9^th June – Crooked Lake

23^rd June – Hell of the West

30^th June – triAthlone Standard

7^th July – Mourne Triathlon

14^th July – Lough Ine Challenge

22^nd July – Beast of the East

5^th August – Brian Boru Olympic

11^th August – Caroline Kearney Memorial Triathlon

26^th August – Dublin City Triathlon

22^nd September – Blacksod Point Challenge

Voya triathlon discount

2011-12-08T15:07:00.000-08:00

Club sponsors Voya are running a 10% discount for club members on the purchase value of all vouchers and products; just mention you are a triathlon club member.

For anyone new to the club, Voya is run by well known triathletes Neil and Mick Walton. They and are currently having a run on their products, which may be in short supply by Christmas week.

See their website for details on the products.

Warrior of the Sea 2012 Dates Announced

2011-12-08T09:12:00.001-08:00

This is an event organised by Club Member Scot Reid, a 5km swim in open water from Rosses Point to Strandhill.

It will take place on Sat July 14th with Sunday being used as a holding day in case of adverse weather conditions.

It's a tough one and a good challenge for club members with our club being well represented in the event in 2011 and 2010. More details on the event website

this evenings run session is cancelled due to adverse weather conditions.

2011-12-08T09:08:00.001-08:00

Pool closed until thurs

2011-12-07T08:58:00.000-08:00

There is no coached swim session tonight (Wed) as the complex is still shut.
The pool reopens tomorrow (Thurs) so coached sessions will resume tomorrow.

Club Bike Training, Sun 4th October

2011-12-04T06:59:00.001-08:00

A small gang of bikers braved the inclement weather for a 25ml (40k; the standard triathlon olympic distance) training cycle this morning. The group set out at 9am and followed a route around Lough Gill and despite the conditions all the mass goers in the group were back in plenty of time. A smaller group of veteran bikers then set out for more mileage. As has been mentioned before, these spins are group/ club rides so follow the motto of 'no one gets left behind', and are suitable for every member of the club.

If you are new to the sport, or considering your first sprint or olympic race, see you next week at 9am -if you can do road miles in December then summer racing in 2012 will be no problem.

Vincent Tinsley - RIP

2011-12-03T06:25:00.000-08:00

Sympathies go to club Member Paul "Sam" McGarry whose brother in law, and close friend, Vinny passed away on Thursday. Our thoughts are with Sam, his wife Ursla and family.

Vincent Tinsley, 31 Crozon Downs, Sligo. Suddenly at his home. Reposing at his home from 5pm this evening, with removal on Monday at 11.30am to Sligo Cathedral, for Mass of the Resurrection at 12 noon. Interment in Sligo Cemetery afterwards. House private on Monday morning please. Family flowers only, donations in lieu if desired to North West Hospice, c/o Foley and Mc Gowan Funeral Home, Market Yard, Sligo.

2011-12-02T09:08:00.000-08:00

Our cycling training co-ordinator Stephen Mullane has mapped out the route for Sunday. It's going to be easy pace, people will wait for the group, like the marines, no man/woman will be left behind!
Check out the route here
Leaving Sligo IT at 9am sharp. There's loads of parking down there.

DON'T FORGET TO BRING YOUR HELMET, NO HELMET NO CYCLE, NO EXCEPTIONS.

Injury prevention post - Liam @ Sligo Advanced Physio

2011-12-01T15:27:00.000-08:00

General Injury Prevention post from Liam @ sligo advanced physio on the mall. The first in a series of posts.

Hopefully everybody is enjoying the training in the off season. Here are a few pointers to keep in mind to try and cut down your chances of picking up an injury to ruin your base training.

1. Previous Injury – The biggest predictor of a future injury is a past injury. If you had a back problem 2 years ago or a knee injury 6 months ago then these are the areas you really need to concentrate on in the off season as part of your strength and conditioning programme. Just because you don’t get pain in those areas now does not mean that they have returned to “normal” function after the injury. Pain reduced muscle function and proprioception therefore if you had knee pain you would likely find that some muscles around your knee would be functioning poorly increasing your chance of re-injury. The off season is a great time to commit to structured rehab programme to maximise the endurance, control strength and proprioception in the region of the old injury. Maybe in future posts we can look at specific injuries and rehab plans for them if people are interested

2. Load Management – This is a massive contributor to injuries. It is always a tricky one trying to match the demand you want to place on your cardiovascular system to improve aerobic fitness with the effect this load may have on your musculoskeletal system.

Think of this example:You are a keen club swimmer who up to know runs 5 miles once a week just for fun at 9 min mile pace. You decide that this year you fancy having a go at your first triathlon. You decide that you will run 7 miles 3 times/week and increase your pace to 8 minutes miles. The likelihood it that cardiovascularly you will tolerate this quite well given your strong swimming background. The problem is that good aerobic fitness gained from one sport (such as swimming) is not going to protect your musculoskeletal system from coming under pressure and maybe breaking down when your increase your running mileage. A few good rules to always consider to give your musculoskeletal system a chance to adapt and not break down are the following:

a. Be sensible with your mileage increases. 10% a week is often thrown out as a guide but obviously this is very general. It works well if you are doing 60 miles a week but if you are doing 5 miles a week this will be too conservative. So if you start with low mileage a week don’t increase by any more than 30% a week and as your mileage increases drop your percentage increases closer to the 10% region.

b. Watch out for how your body feels as part of your training diary keep a record of any areas of your body that feels sorer than others. Keep a record of your sleep pattern and your general tiredness as an early sign of overtraining. Record where you feel more tired after a run, is it your calves, quads or glutes. This can help you identify when you might need to reduce your mileage or look at your running technique.

c. Remember how important periodisation is, try to aim for a lighter mileage and pace week every four weeks to allow some recovery time to reduce the risk of overreaching and musculoskeletal injury.

d. Try not to increase 2 variables of your training at any time. If you increase your mileage by 20% don’t reduce your mile pace in the same week. If you normally run the flat then don’t increase your mileage and add in a substantial hill section in your runs in the same week.

e. Think of the surface you run on; compacted sand and grass are likely to place less load on your joints than constant road running but running on sand dunes will significantly increase the load on your Achilles tendon and might be best avoided if you have a previous history of Achilles injury.

f. Include strength and balance training in your weekly training programme especially for your pelvis and lower limbs. When you run you only have 1 leg on the ground at any 1 time therefore attempt to include lots of single leg strength and balance work. Maybe in a future post we could discuss a few exercise ideas to work on specific issues.

g. Footwear/Technique – 10 years ago this seemed easy use good motion control running shoes and run with heels striking the ground first and pushing of through your big toe. Easy! Now things are now much more complicated. Chi running, pose running and bare foot running are all concepts that most runners are well aware of. The problem is how can you identify what running style or running shoe (or no shoe!) works for you? Unfortunately that is a massive discussion in its own right with very few conclusions from research to help us make a decision. Maybe that’s a subject for a future post if people are interested.

I hope some of the above is helpful or interesting and might even be worthy of a bit of debate!. If anyone has feedback or different ideas it would be great to hear them. If anyone has any topics they would like a post on in the general injury/performance sphere let me know. Enjoy your training!

Galway Half Iron Man

2011-11-30T08:55:00.000-08:00

For anyone looking to do this the registration is open tomorrow morning 07:03
http://ironmanireland.com/register/
Good few club members took part in the inaugral event.

Christmas Day Splash - Midday, Rosses point, Sligo.

2011-11-29T12:14:00.000-08:00

Christmas Splash 2011 was formally launched this morning on Ocean FM. Proceeds to go to Sligo Cancer Support Centre amongst others.

Declan Byrne from Sligo Tri Club is one of the organisers and we'd encourage club members to take part, this has been going on for decades and there's always a good turn out from the club and the Metalman Tri Club. Great fun and a nice way to get ready for christmas dinner.

More details on facebook

Spaces available for bike fit

2011-11-29T12:09:00.000-08:00

Two spaces have become available for the bike fit planned on Sunday the 12th December. This is a custom bike fitting with Fernando Fuentes. It is suitable for anyone looking to fine tune their position on aero bars; if interested contact Jason 'skinny' Mc Morrow on 086 8617420, the places will be allocated using 'first come, first served'.

Sunday Bike Training

2011-11-27T13:02:00.001-08:00

The club bike training continues as usual this weather with a smaller than usual group gathering for the 9am start this morning. The training is geared to suit all levels and begins with a warm up loop of < 20k around Strandhill and back to town which means it is acessible to anyone trying the sport for the first time. Keep an eye on this blog or the club Facebook page for updates as Stephen is determined to field a strong crew of bikers next season!

Well done to all the club members who braved tough boggy conditions and an elite field in todays all Ireland cross country running c/ships. Finishing well in the senior men's category were Eamonn McAndrew, Damien McSharry, Ashley Henry, Conal Sexton, Rory Connor and Roy Kelly (apologies if your name is missing -as with any event; mail details/ times/ tales athletic derring do to press@sligotriathlon.ie). Congradulations also to the Sligo AC gang for hosting such a major event.

Second hand tri-gear

2011-11-21T07:39:00.000-08:00

Just a quick reminder that we have a club buy and sell, (the link is buried on the left of this blog). Desi Foley has submitted some high end bike gear which may interest some of ye. If you have gear to sell on, or are looking for second hand kit mail buyandsell@sligotriathlon.ie to have it included.

The price and spec of triathlon gear has a huge range and there is a lot of stuff out there, a lot of it unecessary for the amateur athlete. If you are a newcomer to the sport it is well worth seeking advice on what to use before picking something up. Don't be afraid to get advice from one of the coaches or drop in to club sponsor Stephen at ChainDrivenCyles for a chat before investing in kit.

For Newcomers to Triathlon

2011-11-19T11:09:00.000-08:00

This is a good link which explains a lot of what triathlon's about for people new to the sport. Definitely worth a read.

http://www.triathlonireland.com/new-to-tri-adults.html

Club Gear for 2012

2011-11-18T11:49:00.000-08:00

Attention all fashion followers, samples of the new club gear will be in Chain Driven Cycles from Monday.

If you cannot wait the brochure can be downloaded here. If you like what you see you need to fill in this order form and mail it back to John (BEFORE 9th DECEMBER!) at ordersligotri@gmail.com. Thanks to all those involved in looking after the new kit; it will be good to see all the 2012 races flooded with the Sligo colours.

Winter Training Timetable

2011-11-18T03:27:00.000-08:00

Lots of new potential members have been asking about the club training schedule so here it is. It's also on the club website (link on the left!).
As you can see there's a lot going on, we'd encourage people to take part in the sessions it's a lot more fun than doing your own thing. Any questions contact our training co ordinator Ronan, coach@j2pfit.com

2012 Rosses Point race video

2011-11-17T11:04:00.001-08:00

A lot of people have had trouble downlanding the race footage from last summer due to the size of the file so a reduced quality version can be viewed on the race homepage -there are also copies of the dvd doing the rounds (give Cecilia a shout at the next training).

Cycling Training Day

2011-11-17T06:13:00.000-08:00

Eire Og Cycling Club are holding a cycling training day on Saturday 26th of November for all those interested in improving their cycling experience. This is primarily aimed at beginner riders but even more experienced riders can benefit from the course. The course will cover all aspects of cycling including bike skills, training plans, diet & nutrition and basic bike maintenance. Bike fit and max power test will be available for those wishing to assess their fitness levels. The course will take place in The Teeling Centre, Collooney commencing at 9.30 a.m. For further information and registration for the course please visit http://www.eireogcycling.com/ or contact the club secretary on 087 975 9854.
·
· 9.30 -10.30 - Sign on & Bike Setup
· 10.30 – Briefing & Road Spin
· 12.30 – Group Cycling Etiquette
· 13.00 – Lunch
· 13.30 – Bike Skills
· 15.00 – Bike Maintenance & Equipment
· 16.30 - Q & A
· 17.00 – Max Power Testing
· 17.30 - 18.00 – Finish

For more info email: info@connachtcycling.com or call 087 975 9854
Cost for the course is €30, this includes lunch & showers.
Helmets are compulsory, no helmet – no spin.

Club Members Honored at ILSDA Awards at Weekend

2011-11-14T07:33:00.000-08:00

Sligo Triathlon Club was well represented at the Annual Irish Long Distance Swim Association (ILDSA) awards in Dublin at the weekend. Newly installed Club Secretary Lynsey Dunne was recognised for her successfull English Channel swim which she completed during the summer. The committee of the Lough Gill Swim (Paul Byrnes, Sam McGarry and Kieran Fitzgerald) won the prize for the best race of 2011, even more notable as it was their first time to organise a swim event and raised over €11,000 for NW Hospice in Sligo. Competitors in the event were largely drawn from our club.

The Women that Took the Autumn Challenge – Their Triathlon Success!

2011-11-11T12:38:00.001-08:00

On Sunday, 06 Nov, Sligo Triathlon Club hosted a Women’s Try a Triathlon. The event was the culmination of a six week triathlon specific training program to encourage women’s participation in this exciting multi-discipline sport.

The training program consisted of weekly coached sessions in the three triathlon disciplines; swimming, cycling and running. The coached sessions were given by certified coaches from Sligo Triathlon club and provided thirty novice women with the necessary skills to complete the Try a Tri. During the training program the women also participated in additional workshops on transitions, nutrition and training, which were facilitated by experienced triathletes from the Sligo Triathlon Club.

The Try a Tri event gave the training group the opportunity to put all the hard training to the test with a 200m swim, followed by a 8.5 km cycle and a 3.5 km run. Twenty participants started the event with the swim, which consisted of an 8 length swim in the Sligo Regional Sports Complex. Within 5 minutes Dearbhaile Prior was the first competitor to exit the water making her way to the bike and followed in quick succession by Karen Flynn, Carmel Roberts and the rest of the participants. The ladies quickly embraced the challenging cycle from the Sports Complex to the Holy Well and back with several hills to contend with. Dearbhaile Prior was first back from the cycle with Sheila Devaney and Louise Ferrick hot on her heels after making up time on the bike. The ladies racked their bikes and were quickly off on the last leg of the event, which consisted of the 3.5 km run from the Sports Complex to the Race Course for a lap and then back to the Sports Complex. Within 13 minutes Sheila Devaney was first home taking first place in an overall time of 45 mins. Next in was Lorraine Cuffe , in a time of 46 min, who’s outstanding performance in the bike and run leg saw her come home in second place, with Dearbhaile Prior taking third place in a time of 47 min. One by one the remaining participants were welcomed home to rapturous applaud from the awaiting crowd. Congratulations must go to all the women who completed the event after putting in so much time and effort during the 6 week training program to achieve their personal goals of successfully completing the Try a Tri.

A special word of thanks to the coaches, workshop facilitators, the Try a Tri Committee, race marshals and Sligo Triathlon Club who all contributed to the successful training program and Try a Tri event. The support and funding from Sligo Sport and Recreation Partnership is also recognised. For further information on Sligo Triathlon Club check-out the website www.sligotriathlon.ie or for information on Sligo Sports and Recreation Partnership Tel: 9161511.

Reminder - AGM Saturday 12th Nov 7pm Glasshouse

2011-11-08T07:47:00.000-08:00

The Club AGM will be on Sat coming at 7pm in the Glasshouse Hotel in Sligo.

There will be a social directly afterwards in McHughs Bar

It's important that as many club members attend as possible so we can determine the club's plans and strategies for the upcoming year, fill committees, etc.

Newer members are especially welcome.

Footage from last summers race

2011-11-07T01:47:00.000-08:00

There is over an hour of footage from the 2011 Rosses Point race which will be screened after next Saturdays AGM. Most of ye (marshalls and competitors) have been captured in all of your sporting glory. The footage will be available free for download after the screening.

Below is two and a half minutes from the race...

Ladies Try a Tri Results

2011-11-06T08:38:00.000-08:00

Well done to all those who took part in the Women's Try a Tri. It was an amazing day for an amazing event and it was great to see everyone do so well an achieving their goal of completing the Try a Tri, their first triathlon.

Special congrats to Shiela Devaney first home, to Lorraine Cuffe just behind her and Dearbhaile Prior taking bronze.

Please find attached a copy of the result and times with splits.

We look forward to seeing you at future events with Sligo Triathlon Club.

Rank	Fisrt Name	Surname	Swim	Bike	Run	Total
1	Shiela	Devaney	00:06:28	00:26:02	00:13:14	00:45:44
2	Lorraine	Cuffe	00:08:46	00:25:12	00:12:52	00:46:50
3	Dearbhaile	Prior	00:04:52	00:27:23	00:15:23	00:47:38
4	Carmel	Roberts	00:05:26	00:28:48	00:13:58	00:48:12
5	Vanessa	Foley	00:07:06	00:26:48	00:14:26	00:48:20
6	Louise	Ferrick	00:05:41	00:27:09	00:15:33	00:48:23
7	Andrea	McGee	00:05:26	00:28:19	00:16:36	00:50:21
8	Karen	Flynn	00:05:16	00:29:10	00:15:56	00:50:22
9	Elizabeth	King	00:07:06	00:28:34	00:15:01	00:50:41
10	Jill	Connor	00:06:33	00:28:47	00:16:00	00:51:20
11	Ruth	Walsh	00:06:35	00:29:25	00:16:03	00:52:03
12	Mary	Henry	00:07:40	00:28:46	00:17:02	00:53:28
13	Patricia	Conway	00:08:12	00:28:24	00:17:58	00:54:34
14	Sandra	McNulty	00:07:45	00:31:16	00:17:49	00:56:50
15	Orla	Cormican	00:06:35	00:34:05	00:18:32	00:59:12
16	Lorraine	Cosgrave	00:09:16	00:33:46	00:16:38	00:59:40
17	Gemma	Lavin	00:08:46	00:33:41	00:18:49	01:01:16
18	Cora	Mulligan	00:07:52	00:42:24	00:21:09	01:11:25
19	Valerie	reynolds	00:15:10	00:44:28	00:21:22	01:21:00
N/A	Sinead	Gillespie	N/A	00:55:45	00:14:20	N/A

Ladies Try a Tri on Sunday

2011-11-03T17:04:00.001-07:00

This sunday sees the running of the first Sligo Tri Clubs Ladies Try Event. The six week training program overseen by Catherine McGlinchey, her committe and club coaches will see all the ladies go the distance and complete the course.

They will kick off with a 200m swim in the sports complex pool, then an 8km cycle followed up with a run around the race course.

It promises to be a fun and exciting event and all club members are encouraged to attend and give a hand (get in touch with Gwen Hunter for details).

The participants have really progressed during the program and we hope that they will stay with the club after this and add to our ranks.

This program and event are funded by Sligo Sport and Recreational Partnership.

Joes 2 Pros Bike Fitting Session 12th Nov

2011-11-02T15:21:00.000-07:00

Sponsors of the Tri Club Swim Series, Joes 2 Pros, will be hosting a bike fitting and fitness testing session on Saturday 12th November in Sligo IT.

This will help people to get their adjustments correct on their bike as well as determining what zones to best train in. Cost is €40 for fitting, €50 for fitness testing or €75 for both.

To reserve your place contact Ronan McNamara on 087 0909770 / j2pfit.com. Please note this isn't a tri club event we're just accomodating one of our event sponsors.

Lough Gill Swimmers Civic Reception

2011-10-26T05:31:00.000-07:00

The swimmers from the lough gill 8.5km swim were last night afforded a Civic Reception at Sligo Town Hall by Mayor Rosaleen O'Grady. This was to recognise the success of the event as a fundraiser for North West Hospice, Sligo.

The swimmers were largely made up of Sligo Tri Club members and the event committee included SamMcGarry, Kieran Fitzgerald and Paul Burns from the club.

Swimmers are pictured with the mayor along with the check for over €11,000 which was presented to North West Hospice on the night.
Included in the photo are club members Lynsey Dunne, Tommy Sheridan, Sandra Deery, Paul 'Sam' McGarry, Kieran Fitzgerald, Shane O'Doherty, Jason 'Skinny' McMorrow, Anthony Blake and Paul Burns.

Plans are already underway for the event in 2012 with plans for expansion to increase the number of participants and even more fundraising efforts. The swim has been nominated by Swim Ireland as the best organised swim of 2011.

Winter training times

2011-10-16T15:06:00.000-07:00

Some times to keep in your diaries over the coming months...

STC Winter Training Schedule

Swimming
Tues 8-9am
Wednesday 10-11pm
Thursday 8-9am
Friday 7-8pm
Sat 7-8pm

Cycling
Turbo/Circuit Session 7-9 Wednesday Sligo IT
Sunday Morn meet 9:30am Sligo IT, fine weather cycle on the road, bad weather turbo.....

Running
Thursday 7-8 Sligo IT
Saturday Long Run TBA

Athlete profile; Caoimhe Ni Mhuruchu

2011-10-10T12:51:00.000-07:00

This interview is taken from a series compiled by Catherine McGlinchey earlier this year. It was taken as Caoimhe was preparing for the peak racing season and might serve as inspiration for any of the women currently grappling with the Autumn triathlon challenge. Since this article Caoimhe went on to complete the gruelling Alpe d'Huez triathlon and then set an Ironman record. Pictured below is a shot of the competitors entering the water at 6:30am before the Hardman triathlon (where Caoimhe set her record), links to articles on her 2011 achievments can be found after the interview...

Starting out...

"I did my first triathlon in 2008 as a ‘dare’. It’s how I ended up doing my first marathon the same year – because someone told me I couldn’t! My debut was in Mullaghmore that year. I have no idea what time I did – all I know is I finished it and was delighted with the tan I got that day. I had my Dad’s old rusty hybrid bike and a surfing wetsuit."

Coming back to the sport...

"I ‘retired’ after 2008 and spent 2009 doing a lot of yoga, even going as far as India for my newest passion. The following year, I decided to apply for the ‘cycle to work’ scheme and got myself what I thought of as a ‘free’ bike. This is also when I got the notion of joining the club. I think what drew me into the sport was the opportunity to meet some new people, as I’m not a Sligo native. I was only interested in the social side initially to be totally honest."

Hooked...

"But like most people who begin with a duathlon or a try-a-tri, I soon got well and truly bitten by the triathlon bug. It seems to be one of those sports that always presents new challenges, introduces you to fantastic people and offers you the novelty of weekends away racing. It’s accessible to anyone and everyone, and rewards you with a huge sense of achievement."

Ambitions...

"I didn’t realise I would get such a thrill from each and every race last year, as I do tend to get bored quite quickly, and I’m not a very competitive person. But so far, so good, and I decided to keep it up this year and ‘go longer’. I’m training for my first half-ironman distance race in France in a few weeks. It’s called the Alpe d’Huez, and is considered a toughie!! I haven’t had the time to enter many other races this year, with holidays (poor me), weddings, and other commitments. But I love the training, feeling fit, and sleeping soundly at night. I’m definitely not bored yet!"

-As mentioned above, Caoimhe went on to complete the Alpe d'Huez triathlon (click here for her race report) and set an Ironman record that will be hard to beat (click here for her report).

2012 season preperation -already!

2011-10-05T01:45:00.000-07:00

Warm Weather Training Camp

Following on from a discussion at the last meeting a number of members are getting together to organize some warm weather training and are looking for expressions of interest in a camp sometime in February/March in either Spain or Portugal. It is proposed that we rent accommodation with pool access. There will be a strict training schedule for the week with a social night towards the end of the trip. This will be an excellent start to the new season. Flights and accommodation for the week will cost approximately 350 euro. Please email your expressions of interest to ashhenry1@gmail.com before the next club meeting in a weeks time.

Swimming Update

2011-10-03T12:53:00.000-07:00

The new swim programme is moving into week 3. The Tuesday and Friday sessions are booked but there are still a few places on the Wednesday, Thursday and Saturday sessions. Pass the word around. The club are running these sessions on a break even basis and the sessions were completely booked out at the booking night. So if you want to do an extra sessions or just want to start please email Cecilia.

Bike fitting -club bike measuring

2011-10-03T07:31:00.000-07:00

Jason Mc Morrow is organizing a bike fitting session for club members, and has been in touch with an Fernado Fuentes re the bike fitting. The fitting is based on motion technology system using the dartfish tool. The tool in the right hands should show good results. The company name is Fit4bike and is on facebook and the web. Fernado is a well experienced bike fitter and is fitting all over europe. He is also well know on the Tri scene in Ireland and has fitted many Irish champions. The fitting will take place in Sligo and all details will be confirmed ASAP. Looking like the fitting will take place in December. There is a limited number of spaces available for the fit for club members. The fitting will take 2-3 hours per person and he will be coming for a weekend. Maximum five fits per day. Places are filling fast and anyone interested should contact: 086 8617420 first come, first served! Price approx €120

Fernando Fuentes

- FIST certificate Bike Fitter

- Bike mechanic

- ITU certificate Triathlon Coach

- More than 5 years bike fitting and bike mechanical experienc

Traders Cup

2011-10-01T14:13:00.000-07:00

Time to dip your toes into a bit of cycle racing. The famous traders cup is making a reappearance after a number of years hiding in Juan Carey's house. The cup is handicap event so great chance for everyone to race with people of equal abilities. Already a big entry has been confirmed and this is event is especially aimed at trying to encourage some of the ladies and newcomers to try a cycling race in a safe environment. Nice social way to end the season. Will see you all next weekend

After a long season of racing the Eire Og Cycling Team will be running the Traders Cup cycle race on Saturday October 8th at Carraroe, Sligo. Sign on will be from 2.30 with the first riders away at 3.30. The race will be run as a handicap event with riders of equal abilities starting together in order to give everybody a chance to be competitive. All levels of riders will be catered for on the day.

The Traders Cup has been running for over 30 years but has been sidelined the last few seasons because of inclement weather conditions. Some notable riders who have won the race in the past are Mark Scanlon, Michael Higgins, Gary Rooney, Brian Sexton, Francie Middleton, Turlough Mooney, Philip Mc Caffrey, Sean Callagy and Alan Egan. The current holder Alex Carey is training hard at the moment and is very confident that he can retain the Cup. Riders looking to foil Careys plans will be Basil Freeman and Time Trial legend Michael Devins.

Local bike race TOMORROW (Oct 1st)

2011-09-30T00:48:00.000-07:00

The GOAL Cup hill-climb challenge will take place this Saturday 1st Otober. The GOAL cup has been organised since the early nineties by Seamus McGowan to raise funds for this great Third World charity organisation. This year the event will incorporate The County Sligo Hill-Climbing Championships 2011.

The event takes place in the form of a hill-climb over a distance of just 4km on Muragh Mountain near Manorhamilton Co Leitrim. Starting at Shanvas crossroads just about 3km the Sligo side of Manorhamilton, riders can sign on from 12 noon on Saturday and the first rider will get off at 12:30pm. The event is open to all riders of all standards and ability.

The event this year will not be held as a handicap - but to compensate for this there will be prizes in a wide number of categories:
1st three Junior Ladies : 1st three Junior men :
1st three Senior Men :
1st three Senior Ladies :
Age Categories for Ladies and Men : 1st over 40
1st over 50
1st over 55
1st over 60
1st over 65
1st over 70.

Blacksod Olympic Report, Part II

2011-09-28T13:53:00.000-07:00

Thanks go to Dermot Cunningham for the following race report from Belmullet. This was his first attempt at the distance in one of the toughest races on the calendar. The report makes interesting reading for anyone looking to make the jump from up from Sprint distance racing:

"After completing and enjoying the Sprint in Rosses Point, it was suggested to me by Declan Conlon that I should consider doing the Olympic Distance in Blacksod. As it was a good few weeks away, I agreed, and entered.

Arranging the accommodation for the night before the Race is the next step, as Registration takes place on the eve of the Race. Mr Conlon came up trumps as he knew an excellent B&B that he had used the last time he did the event, and so another box was ticked.

It was Sean Flannery that had suggested giving Triathlons a go last year, and so I turned to him for some guidance. When he stopped laughing at the idea of me taking on what is regarded as the toughest Olympic Distance in Ireland, he realised I was serious and probably felt that I needed all the help I could get.

I knew the swim would be crucial, as if you don’t get through it, it doesn’t matter how good you are on the bike or on the run. Lynsey Dunn had helped me greatly to get over my anxiety of the sea for the Rosses Point Sprint, and without her help I wouldn’t have been able to complete it. Thankfully the trauma of working with me before hadn’t put her off, and so Lynsey again played a key role in getting me ready for the Event.

For a few weekends leading up to Blacksod, I trained with Timmy McCarthy doing the distances for the 3 elements, so I knew that if I paced myself right, I could complete it on the day. Timmy is a very experienced Triathlete, and was able to give me some good advice, the only trouble was trying to keep up with him on the bike and run to be able to hear the advice!
The Day before:
Having done a short brick session back in Drumcliffe that morning, I travelled down to Blacksod and checked into the B&B. It was my second time down there, as I had checked out the bike and run route in August. Registration was in Belmullet, which is 20k back the road and is on the bike route, without the big hill that I had heard so much about. At this stage the nerves were really kicking in!
I met with Declan and we continued our Carbo Loading. Gradually a few members of the Sligo Tri Club arrived, and the atmosphere was building. Everybody was in good form, and the ones who had done the Race previously were only too willing to share their experiences with those of us new to Blacksod.

A good night’s sleep?
Not one wink did I get that night! Thoughts were going through my head – “Are you mad?” What possessed you to think you could do this?” “The toughest Olympic Distance in Ireland and this is the one you pick for your first one!”
The Morning
Eventually the watched alarm clock went off, and so the day began! Our host, Hanna had prepared a massive saucepan of porridge, with raisins and honey, and we tucked in. We dropped our bikes to Transition, and learned that they weren’t allowing boxes this year – the Race organiser had been down in Galway for the Half Ironman, and had picked up a few ideas.

Thankfully the sun was out, the wind had dried the roads from the previous day’s torrential rain, and the sea looked relatively calm. Within a few minutes the pier was a hive of activity and the atmosphere was electric.
Ready for action
After the Race briefing we put on our wetsuits, and made our way to the start. We had only time for a short warm up and as usual the start was fairly hectic.
The Swim
The Course had us head out from a beach to a yellow buoy about 500m for the start, and take a sharp turn right and head back the 1000m to the Pier. Considering that the majority of competitors were wearing yellow hats, having the turning buoy the same colour maybe wasn’t the best idea. The size of the buoy wasn’t great either; they were the ones that are used for mooring boats in the bay. It made me realise just how lucky we are in Sligo with our very large buoys. There were only about 6 kayaks, and 2 safety boats, so it was obvious that Shane O’Doherty hadn’t been co-ordination the safety crews.

There was only 1 wave for the 200 competitors, so I stuck to my plan of staying at the back and avoiding the mayhem. We were meant to stand in knee deep water for the start, but obviously some people knees are a lot higher than others and after a few calls in vain from the Race Starter to get people to come back, the Race was on!

Before I knew it, I was out at the yellow buoy, and was turning for the Pier. My stroke was going fairly well, I was still relaxed and was actually enjoying the experience. The water then got fairly choppy, and it was difficult at times to see the red buoys on the route to the Pier, but we could see the Pier itself in the distance so it wasn’t that bad. I got a few shoulders and my legs were hit a few times, but thankfully my head and face remained clear and the goggles stayed secure. From once we started we couldn’t see the bottom, so it was great to finally see it as I came up onto the Pier.

My swim took over 38 minutes, but I was delighted to have made it safely back to dry land. After a bit of a wardrobe malfunction in Transition, it was up on the bike and away.

The Cycle
I had driven up the dreaded hill the previous evening, so I knew what was ahead of me. It was pretty steep, but it didn’t go on for too long, and I didn’t have to dismount thankfully! I meet a couple of competitors walking back with their bikes, for them the adventure was over.

Heading out for Belmullet I met the leaders on their way back, and I was delighted to see Neil Walton in about third place. Neil has been fantastic for advising me on training, diet, nutrition and on the mental side of Triathlon over the year, and he’s never left any of my questions unanswered.

Once I reached the turn, I had done about 23km wind assisted, but the 20km back to Transition felt like 40km, uphill! Cycling into a gale really takes it out of you, but I had been warned about this, and I did my best to pace myself throughout the 43k.

As I came towards Transition, I passed Jason McMorrow, obviously it’s not as impressive as it seems, as Jason was running towards the finishing line at the time. Jason is another great encourager of people new to the sport, and was one of the first to extend the hand of friendship when I went to my first Tri Club Meeting last year.

The Run
Coming out of the run, I saw Sean Flannery finishing and I knew that I had about 59 minutes to try and achieve my second goal – to finish within 1 hour of Sean. My first goal was obviously to finish, at my age and my level of fitness, for me finishing is winning.

The run was lovely –after about 500metres we turned left and went up hill for about 2km, and then downhill onto a short beach run, followed by running on grass to another road up another hill. After the turn around, we ran along another road and looped back to where we had ran down onto the beach earlier. Obviously we had the lovely 2km downhill at that stage which brought us back to the main road and the final 500 metres to the finish.

By the time I reached the final 500 metres, the rest of the Sligo lads had finished, done their cool downs, drank their recovery shakes, read the paper and planned next year’s events. But it was very nice of them to cheer me on to the finish line.

Thank you
I really appreciated the encouragement and the support I received on the day from our fellow Club members Declan Conlon, Neil Walton, Timmy McCarthy, Eamon McAndrew, Sean Flannery and Brian Sexton. Their words of wisdom helped to calm me down greatly, and it’s important to acknowledge the positive impact that they had on the day.

Over all, it was a great adventure, and I was delighted to have finished my first Olympic Distance Tri. It’s a great venue, and I would encourage everyone to put Blacksod in their diaries for next year."

More info on the race can be found on the Kilmore Tri Club website.

Belmullet race report

2011-09-27T13:23:00.000-07:00

Thanks go to Neil Walton for the following report from last Saturdays action -for anyone that missed it, Neil took a well deserved third place in this National Series event. Overall it was a great day for the club, which had athletes finishing well in every division. Another race report will follow from Dermot Cunningham who picked probably the most difficult olympic in Ireland as his first attempt at the distance, and finished comfortably.

"The Vodafone National Series wrapped up in Blacksod today, with William McCormack and Marie Boland taking line honours.

The Mayo sunshine was out and shining for the nearly 300 strong field, but the wind was still gusting with great force. Competitors reported that the bike out to the turn around was swift with a handy tail wind, and "absolutely brutal" and " a real test of mental toughness" coming back. The run course is also famed as one of the toughest of the National Series, taking in a variety of terrain including several sandy sections.

First home for the Men was William McCormack of Belpark, from Colm Sheehan in second and Neil Walton of Sligo Tri Club in 3rd. Marie Boland was first home for the ladies, with Joanne Doran and Julie Anne Bowden second and third respectively.

This is a tough hard race, the swim is in Blacksod bay, it is a triangle shape 1500 meter swim which was choppy on the way back into transition. The bike course is nothing put painful, you have a long 1500m climb steeper in parts than the glen road, with a sharp dangerous steep descent back onto the Bellmullet Road. The course then goes straight out to Bellmullet, turning at the sea wall just before Bellmullent Town, and then straight back into a massive head wind to Blacksod Bay.

The run was beautiful, from transition there was a 1000m steep climb which lead down to a beach run and back onto to back roads, which was a tough but scenic road.
All in all the competition was well run, excellent post refreshments, however safety on the bike course will have to be addressed next year.

There was also a club section for the best overall club performance, and on paper Sligo Tri Club were the clear winners, unfortunately the club was not awarded with the prize to which not a clear answer was available from the race director after the event.

The prizes where extremely poor at the event, age groupers and 2nd and 3rd in both female and male overall only receive a small cheap medals, which is not good for a National Series Event.
The was great turn out of club members on the day. With great performances from all athletes. The club had five members in the top 20 which was very good considering the high standard at the event. Neil Walton managed to get 3rd overall, next was Eamon Mc Andrews in 6th, then Garry Higgins in 8th, Brian Sexton 17th, Colm Casey in 19th and Jason Mc Morrow 26th. Saoirse O Donoghue was the first Sligo female home, and 4th overall in the ladies category and first in her age group.

Also great performances from Sean Flannery, Trever Mc Sharry, Alan French, Any Hamilton,Tommy Sheridan, Conal Sexton, Greg Kelly, John Burrows, Martha Van Der Meulen (1st in her age group), Shelia Ryan, Timothy Mc Carthy (2nd in his age group), Dermot Cunningham, Rory Raftery , Jonathan Fahey, Enda Madden, Caroline Brennan, Carmel Regan and Michelle Henry."

Full results can be found here.

Discount for members

2011-09-27T13:02:00.000-07:00

Just a quick reminder for newer members from one of our sponsors. Membership entitles you to a 10% discount in Chain Driven Cycles. Stephen noticed that some club members were unaware of this and has asked for the message to be passed on.

The Launch of the Curlieu Wheelers Cycling Club

2011-09-26T12:24:00.000-07:00

Club member Carmel Regan has been busy over the summer and managed to fit in the preperations for a new bike club with recovery from her injuries in the Boyle duathlon. It is an indication of the growth in popularity of biking to see yet another club develop, we wish the Curlieu Wheelers all the best, no doubt many Sligo Tri members will be competing with, racing against and marshalling for their events in the future. With this in mind the first event they are running takes place in two weeks, all Sligo Tri members are invited -details can be found below or by visiting their website.

"We are delighted to announce the re-launch of the Curlieu Wheelers cycling club with a 50km Leisure Cycle and 10km Family fun cycle on the 9th of Oct at 11.00am in conjunction with the Roscommon Sports Partnership group. The route is planned along some local scenic areas. The start/finish is in Lough Key forest Park and will head out to Cootehall- Knockvicar-Keadue-Ballyfarnon-Corrigeenroe.
Registration will be on the day at 10.00am in Lough Key activity centre. Registration fee is €10per person this will include a refreshment stop and a Beanie hat. Cycle helmets are compulsory."
Any enquiries contact Carmel 0861598232 (curlieuwheelers.blogspot.com)

Congrats to Eve and Scot Reid....

2011-09-26T10:10:00.000-07:00

.........on the birth of baby Sebastien last week.
If he takes after either of his parents he will be very quick in the water!

RNLI Seafood Night 23rd Sept

2011-09-22T04:35:00.000-07:00

They've helped us with events and are good friends of the club, the RNLI are hosting a seafood fundraiser tomorrow night in the Strand Bar and have asked us to mention it.
More details below
http://www.sligotoday.ie/details.php?id=16528

POOL SWIMMING KICKS OFF TOMORROW

2011-09-19T12:43:00.000-07:00

It's that time of year again, and the pool coaching is starting again with the 8am session tomorrow morning -more info. to follow.

Rookie Women Take up the Autumn Triathlon Challenge

2011-09-17T05:15:00.000-07:00

The club's 'Women's Triathlon Training' was launched last week at The Raddisson Hotel. Thirty new recruits have taken on a six week training programme covering all they need to know about triathon. Some of our top coaches; Colm, Shane, Cecilia and Sheila will motivate and encourage the group and having assimilated it all, these women will put their new-found skills to the test on Sunday 6th November at the Women's Try-a-tri event.

Thanks go to Sligo Sport and Recreational Partnership for creating this opportunity with their funding support and the club's sub-committee working on this programme. For some of Sligo Triathlon Club's up-an-coming female talent...watch this space!

Weekend racing reminder...

2011-09-15T12:51:00.000-07:00

The season may be drawing to a close but races are coming thick and fast, for those of you that have not got your weekend already planned here is what is on offer...

SUNDAY 18th -SLIGO BIKE HILL CLIMB CHAMPIONSHIP

3k hill climb.
Ballyfarnon, Co.Sligo -register at 9:30am, first rider off at 11am.
Cost of entry €10, all proceeds go to Sligo Hospital Oncology Unit Trust.
STC members welcome, contact Stephen 071 9129008

SATURDAY 17th -SLIGO AC 8k

8k road race.
Rosses Point, Co.Sligo -register via runireland, starts at 6pm

...and for anyone feeling really adventureous, recent world Ironman qualifier Eamonn 'mouse' McAndrew has sent on the following invite to a pre run workout (Note: This is an informal training session among members and not a coached club training)...

"A few club members are meeting at the yacht club on Saturday at 4.00pm for a training session involving the following. A swim at 4.15pm for 25minutes, followed by registration for the Rossespoint 8km, followed by a one hour turbo session in the car park at the side of the yacht club, followed by the Rosses point 8km road race. The intention is to finish the turbo session red hot at 5.55pm make our way to the start line and run the race at 6.00pm with whatever is left in the legs. This will be ideal training for anyone doing Blacksod next weekend. This is not a club coached event so please bring your own equipment, especially a pulse monitor if you have one".

Lough Key Race Report

2011-09-12T13:08:00.000-07:00

If anyone who raced Loughrea yesterday has the chance to tap out a report, mail it onto pro@sligotriathlon.ie -good few Sligo athletes in the mix on what must have been seriously testing conditions.

Thanks go to Roy Kelly for the following report from Boyle on the Sunday before last. There was a good contingent form the club present and the race is highly recommended. If you missed it then one to keep in mind for 2012...

The Lough Key Sprint Triathlon took place on the 4th of September 2011. It was the fifth hosting of the event and the second time for it to be included as part of the national series. 231 competitors started the race and 224 finished. Although a number of Sligo Tri Clubs elite were in Galway to tackle the Galway 70.3 Ironman the club was well represented with 22 competitors across all levels.

Lough key forest park is a great place to have a triathlon in it’s proximity to Sligo, facilities and idyllic scenery. Registration on Saturday evening was welcoming and efficient and the goody bag included a good sports bag which was a nice change from the customary race t-shirt that every race seems to have.

The race had the usual build-up of registering, racking the bike, lining up all of the necessary gear, chatting to everyone about what they expected to do and how training was going. After the race briefing we were counted into the water. I was one of the first into the water and I’d say that it took about ten minutes for everybody to be counted in and lined up for the race start. For next year I think I’ll be later getting into the water as I was definitely feeling the cold before the race started. The start area was very wide which gave swimmers plenty of space but I still managed to crash into a few people at the start before settling into a rhythm. We were lucky that the lake was calm because at times there can be up to 2 feet waves in Lough key. I survived the swim and made it into transition, as usual I was well down the field but was happy with my time and to be back on solid ground.

On a dry day the bike course is a nice one, most of it is on quiet country roads and there is only one tester of a hill and a few drags. However, Sunday was a wet day and the rain meant that the roads were very greasy especially in the sheltered forest roads. A number of people came of there bikes, some were able to continue on but others had to retire for the day. At the finish line competitors could be seen comparing bruises and cuts. Every junction had marshals shouting instructions and support and even though the roads weren’t closed there was practically no traffic for the first 16k. At about 16k you turn back on to the main N4 and there is a nice down hill where i felt like i was flying along, unfortunately it is followed by a 1k drag of an uphill which always seemed flat when I was driving.

The second transition went smoothly (well as smoothly as it can go when you have that weird sensation where your legs feel like they’re asleep/numb – you can’t actually feel your legs but you can feel the pain they are in). The first 400m of the run to the top of the hill at the tower was very tough but then the legs began to loosen out. The lough key run is an enjoyable one as once you get past the 400m mark the rest of the course is flat.

Overall the event was well marshalled and supported and despite the wet weather the atmosphere was great and spirits were high. Lough key is so close to home and because it is such a nice course it is definitely a race that will be in most members calendar for next year.

Channel 4 Coverage of Galway 70.3

2011-09-12T03:39:00.000-07:00

There will be channel 4 coverage (highlights) of the recent Galway 70.3 event Sun 18 Sep, 7.20AM.
See here for more details http://www.channel4.com/programmes/triathlon

Diary of an world c'ship qualifier

2011-09-11T03:20:00.000-07:00

To help ease any post Irish match rainy day boredom Eamonn 'mouse' McAndrew has kindly submitted this excellent race report from last weeks Galway Ironman event -for anyone who missed it, he came fourth in his age group (racing against professionals) and got round in under 4.5 hrs:

Galway Ironman 70.3

I entered Galway ironman as soon as it opened last September, having set some of my season goals around it. The entry at that time was €190 but topped out at €250. Colm set the base training schedule in place in January with a target of completing the course sub 4.30. We trained hard regardless, so it was all about putting it together on the day.

I travelled to Galway with Skinny (face book) Mc Morrow. The weather was taking a turn for the worse but there was no going back. I consumed 4000 calories on Friday and another 4000 on Saturday along with 4 litres of water each day. I was fully loaded and raring to go.

The morning of the race I got up at 4.30am but I would have been as well not going to bed, for all the sleep I got. After a calorie feast for breakfast (4 snickers and a litre of beetroot juice), I met up with the lads in Salthill. We knew the sea would be challenging because the winds were forecast to be high, but on first light we got our first site of Galway Bay and it was a squally mess . The swim was shortened to 750m on the day which actually measured 1000m.

The swim was tough with a high chop and strong current. The waves seemed to hit from all sides, however we stuck to the task and got through it. My swim was weak as I was 21min in the water, and 2-3 min down on the lads, but the race was only starting. The run from the sea to the end of transition was at least 800m long, the majority of which had no carpet. My feet went numb at this stage.

On to the bike and I hit the gas. I battled Padraic Marry for most of the cycle so I knew I was going well. There was a strong cross wind and heavy rain for most of the cycle. I remember going through 40km in 1.01. I swallowed six gels in total on the bike and found every time I took one I put the power down so much so I dropped Padraic on the return leg. I finished the 90km in 2hrs 29min, so I knew I was going well. I had a pee on the bike at 70km which went down my legs and filled my shoes, at this stage my feet had frozen solid so I found it a real treat. However, I had still not caught Colm Casey or Gary Higgins but I felt very strong at the finish of the bike and was looking forward to the run.

At the start of the run I took two gels and set off. I was running off my Garmin which was brilliant. I ran the first 3 miles at 6.15 pace and the next 8 miles under 6.30 pace, whereas the last few miles were around the 7min mark. The run loop was a 3 lap course so you could see who you were chasing and who was chasing you. I made a mistake at the end of the third loop where I continued on a fourth loop instead of going up the promenade to the finish line, I eventually realised my mistake and headed for the finish. My 13mile run time off the Garmin was 1 hour 25 min and 36 sec. To run a 1hr 25min off the bike was one of my goals so needless to say I was delighted. The last mile of the run hurt so I knew I had left nothing out there.

The event was extremely well organised from start to finish. I felt it was very expensive considering Swinford was €70. Will I do it again next year? Definitely!!!!!. My goal for improvement in this race next year would be 5-6% across the board. Success for me this year has come from training hard and smart under the guidance of my coach Colm Casey who has helped me to realise my potential.

What’s next....? Blacksod triathlon and a sub three hour Dublin marathon (Fingers crossed ). Then a well deserved break after a very eventful season. Base training will start early in 2012 and will incorporate a weights programme. Triathlon for me is about competing and always trying to go faster. I am looking forward to next year’s racing already. I would like to thank my wife Clodagh, for all her support throughout this season.

Club training triathlon tomorrow...CANCELLED

2011-09-10T07:08:00.000-07:00

The club training triathlon taking planned for tomorrow (Sunday 11th) morning in Hazelwood IS CANCELLED.

In what has to have been the wettest, windiest season in years another weekend of bad weather has conspired against racing. 33 knot southerly winds and rain in excess of 1mm per hour mean there is little point attempting a session. Don't forget the club meeting next Tuesday -at least we can run that indoors.

Set your PB for an 8k...

2011-09-09T14:38:00.001-07:00

Next Saturday Sligo AC hold their annual Rosses Point 8k race; it is a fast course... just 4.6k to the turn just before Cregg, and give it welly all the way back to the finish opposite Austies!

Entry is online via the runireland website.

Sligo AC also need about 4 stewards to help out on the day (race is at 6pm); they have been long time supporters of the triathlon scene here and many of our races could not run without their help, so if you can spare the time to help out contact Tom Meehan on 0876731182.

Galway Ironman 2011

2011-09-07T13:11:00.000-07:00

Last weekend was a busy weekend for the club and this is the first of a couple of reports from the action. While some of us were skidding (and crashing -with Dathai and others suffering during the outbreak of road rash!) our way around Lough Key a strong contingent from the club was posting seriously competitive times in the Galway Ironman. Congradulations go to Eamonn McAndrew (who has also agreed to post a race report) and Gary Higgins who both qualified for the world championships!

The first of the race reports comes from Alan French, who completed the storm battered route in under 5 and a half hours in his first attempt at the half-iron distance...

Hello Everyone,

For those of you who don’t know me my name is Alan French, I joined the Tri Club this year and it is my first year of triathlon racing. So it made perfect sense to sign up for a half ironman event having only done three sprint distance events before this!!!

I travelled up to Galway early on the Saturday to get registered and get all the admin stuff out of the way. For a massive event of nearly 2000 competitors it ran smoothly and got my chip/ swim cap etc in a matter of minutes. Then it was time to set up my bike and transition areas. Having not done an event like this before and being used to putting all my stuff beside my bike this was different. They used a bag transition system. Basically you had T1 where you exited the water it was a cloakroom tent affair with numbered bags, get your numbered bag and take out your bike gear and put in your wetsuit and a volunteers racks your bag for you, same in T2 which is the far end of transition. The scary part is you have to hand in these bags the day before and have no access to them after that point so if you forget something then it’s tough. The bike park was then just bike’s and oh my god for a bike geek like me it was class, could have spent hours in there looking at all carbon and the Pro’s bike’s. To give you a sense of scale the bike area was the distance between the hotel in Rosses Point to the entrance of the yacht club approximately with bikes either side of the road and in the middle. So after drooling over the bike candy it was time to get fed and watered before the big day and a surprising good night’s sleep.

Race morning:

Up at half four for a seven fifteen start and just wanted to check the bike and put my water bottles on and triple check everything you’d swear I had OCD. Then heard the swim was cut to 750M and delayed by fifteen minutes. Now for anyone thinking that this is now not a full half iron distance (more of an Ironman Ireland 69 and a bit) you’re wrong. I felt a bit cheated when heard swim was cut but after two minutes in the water it was the correct decision, I’m a good swimmer but I found the conditions tough and the distance was 1 KM. But the 500M+ run from T1 to get your bike and exit the bike park x 2 more than made up for the swim being reduced. Onto the bike and it was a good course not flat by any means but no huge climbs. I have to admit a certain sense of satisfaction passing guys on TT bike’s worth €5-10K. The conditions made this race tough, cold and extremely wet I saw a few bad crashes and injuries due to the wet roads plus a tail wind out and head/ cross wind back. Bike went well for me under 3 hours which I was happy with. The non drafting element of the bike was well marshalled in places and they had no issue in giving time penalties to competitors. So rolled into the bike park again and could not feel my feet as I hobbled/ ran to T2. After a little confusion got my bag and got changed. The run was a technical 3 lap windy course by the coast and down past the Spanish Arch, every lap you get a band to ensure you cover the required distance. I thought I may get away with a 1:45 half marathon but just got slower as it went on, felt comfortable just no speed in the legs but getting the third band I knew I was finished. On the last K you get re-directed and run past the bike park but them came out into Salthill where the roar of the crowds was class and up the finishing chute to complete my first half ironman in a time of 5:28.

Overall:

The race itself was expensive but I think you get a lot for your money. Along with the usual t-shirt and medal it was the support from the volunteers that was exceptional. The little things like helping your with your gear, especially in T2 where they were literally putting on runners for people. For the sheer scale on the event if felt very personal, little things like having your name on your race number helps, sound silly but getting your name shouted out and words of encouragement do help. Also it was great to see the lads from the club do so well, Casey, Skinny, McAndrew, Gary and Stew (hope I missed nobody out!!!) were all flying and it was good to see them on the course. When doing an Ironman branded event your paying for the brand but they make every effort to make the day memorable.. For the future, it’s official I’m addicted to this triathlon stuff. As the boys said in previous post’s it’s a lifestyle and it becomes part of you. I was happy with my time but I’m delighted to see there is lots of potential to go faster, my transitions were way too slow and I can improve on the run speed off the bike for the longer distances and that’s the great thing about this sport you can always see things you want to work on. While I’ve got this opportunity would like to thank the club too. This is my first year doing triathlon’s and I owe a lot to the club for running the training events throughout the year and they were great sessions to benchmark your fitness and to meet people in the sport and ask them lots of questions. From the Ironmen in the club to the people who competed their first Tri in Rosses Point this year everyone has been friendly and welcoming, especially Brian Sexton who brought me out for a 65 mile boxing match (aka cycle that felt like a stage of the Tour de France) and a five mile run three weeks before the event. Finally I just want to thank my wife Olive. She understood I needed to go out and get the miles in and we’ve just had a little boy Adam so without her it would have been torture trying to complete something like that.

Full results from the race can be found on the race website.

Paul Rennick RIP

2011-09-06T05:42:00.000-07:00

Last week we awoke to the very sad news that Paul Rennick had passed away while in Australia. The news was as shocking as it was terribly sad. Paul was a larger than life very outgoing personality and had links to the tri club too, with many members counting themselves as friends of Paul. He competed in our triathlon events (all the way back to the events in the 90's) and watched over us all last summer in rosses point as lifeguard while we trained. He completed the first warrior of the sea swim last year (pictured in red) and organised the blackrock lighthouse swim himself later that summer. He was a true waterman, a talented and brave surfer as well as a kitesurfer, openwater swimmer and lifeguard. He will be sorely missed and our thoughts go to his family and fiancee.

His father Tony was a huge part of Irish Water Safety in Sligo through the 80s and 90s and Paul was very close to him and a dedicated fundraiser for St Johns Hospital, Sligo. Paul was instrumental in setting up the surflifesaving teams for Sligo and was team manager in 2010.

A close friend of Paul's, Derek Parle, has set up a Paul Rennick Memorial Trust account at AIB Bank Sligo. This is to help toward the repatriation costs and funeral. Any surplus would go to Paul's chosen hospice charity in Sligo. If anyone would like to help out, contributions may be made via the branch or by transfer to:
Sort Code: 937258
Account: 30221016
BIC: AIBK IE2D
IBAN: IE7 AIBK 9372 5830 2210 16

Congrats to Lisa Quinn and Ronan Brennan!

2011-09-05T12:00:00.000-07:00

Congratulations to club members Lisa Quinn and Ronan Brennan on their recent engagement.
They're both very active club members but they'd already met before joining the club so we're still waiting on our first "Tri Club Wedding".

2011 County Hill Climb Championships

2011-09-01T12:17:00.000-07:00

The county bike hill climb championships take place on Sunday 18th; entry fee is €10, proceeds go to charity.

Caoimhe's Ironwoman diary...

2011-08-30T13:43:00.000-07:00

For anyone that missed the previous post, Caoimhe Ni Mhurchu has become the first club woman to complete an Ironman triathlon. Hopefully she will be the first of many. By completing the Hardman circut in twelve and a half hours she has set a serious benchmark for future attempts at the distance.

Her race report makes for interesting reading, especially as an insight into what an Irish take on the famous endurance challenge is like; traffic, eels, sheep and all!...

Hardman Race Report

I saw this race on the Triathlon Ireland Calender earlier on this year, and out of curiosity, I had a look at their website. It looked like a fantastic course, and the detail in the race manual was thorough and impressive. It’s a stunning part of the world, and I thought to myself, why would you travel to do an Ironman at great expense, if you can do a full distance race only down the road, in one of the most beautiful places in the world? But that was my only thought… I had no intention of actually signing up myself!

As the year progressed and I managed longer cycles and steeper hills in my training for the Alpe d’Huez, this race popped back into my head from time to time, and I thought, if I manage the half-ironman distance this year, I’ll give the full distance a shot next year. But as we all know this sport is addictive – there seems to be a continuous desire to go faster or longer, to do a tougher race and smash PBs…. So after I managed to survive the torture I inflicted on myself in France, I was already thinking… what next??

I thought if I could manage a 3 hour run with three weeks to go to the Hardman, I would seriously consider entering. I hadn’t really been doing much running, as I had spent the summer sitting on a saddle. I contacted the organisers and was told that the closing date was the Sunday before the race. This gave me almost until the last minute to make up my mind. With two weeks to go, I was feeling strong. I was well aware that I hadn’t followed any training plan for this race, but I thought I’d go for it. If nothing else, it would be a weekend away in my favourite part of the country. If I had waited two more days to enter, I would have changed my mind, as I injured my ankle, and didn’t run again until race day. But, it was too late. I was committed.

I have huge respect for the challenge, the distance and all those who have completed an ironman, so I kept it to myself. I didn’t want to broadcast the fact that I was going to try to ‘wing it’. But I felt pretty confident that my training for the half would get me around the course.

I drove to Killarney on Friday and checked into a B&B near the golf course – the location of the swim and T1. I registered that evening, and attended a very entertaining and slightly disturbing race briefing… the warning they gave us about the lake’s resident lamprey eels and the technique used to detatch them from your wetsuit was a recurring theme in my dreams that night!

Next morning as I was standing in the pitch dark at the lake waiting for transition to open, I began to have my first doubts…. About my sanity in general. But, I’m sure that’s pretty normal for anyone about to embark on a 140+ mile race! The race was later starting than originally planned, as the sun didn’t begin to appear until well after 6am. At 6.25 we were suddenly informed race would start in 5 minutes… I wasn’t close to being ready, so had to rush to get the wetsuit zipped up, and grabbed my goggles and hat. I didn’t have time for a warm-up but the lake water actually felt beautiful. Suddenly we were hearing a countdown, and we were off! The water seemed perfectly calm as we swam to the first bouy, but once out in the more exposed part of the lake, it was extremelly choppy. I got a bad start, and had to stop twice to clear my goggles. About half-way through the first lap, it began raining heavily, the lake water was swirling over my head, and I was finding it difficult to breath. It seemed so stormy and I started getting anxious. I’m not sure why, I love to be in the water, but I was starting to panic. I tried to settle myself, but I got more disorientated. I knew there were a couple of people ahead of me, but I couldn’t see them. The bouys were huge, and the course was well marked, but I got more and more disorientated and felt like we were swimming in zigzags rather than in the rectangle course which had been clearly explained. On my second lap, I rounded what I thought was the last buoy, and swam about 100 metres before a kayaker caught up with me and told me I had cut the course short. I argued with her as I was sure I was swimming to the pier. She pointed in the opposite direction, and told me I had 4 more buoys to pass before I got to the pier. At this stage my head was all over the place. Then I saw the next swimmer behind me passing the previous buoy, and swimming straight on ahead. Finally I gave up arguing with the poor frustrated kayaker, and realised I needed to keep swimming or I’d never get home! I swam after the guy I had seen and followed his legs all the way to the pier. I was so glad to get out of the water. This was definitely the worst part of the day. It’s a beautiful swim, but the conditions were tough on the day. As the very helpful volunteers helped me out of the water, I was told I was fourth and my time was 1.11. I walked into transition, and realised a good crowd had gathered. I had decided not to change, and use my tri top and shorts on the bike with a wind-breaker jacket. The forecast was supposed to be mostly dry, and about 16 degrees.

I have cycled the Ring of Kerry twice before, and it is definitely an advantage to know the course. I was told the night before the race to break it down – 30kms for the bike and 5kms for the run – this was good advice. Mentally its difficult to sit on a saddle for 7 hours, so its important to not let your mind get too far ahead. I don’t use a heart rate monitor, but I have a good idea now, how to pace long cycles. So I set off nice and easy, and tried to settle into a comfortable rhythm. We were cycling into a strong wind, setting out, and this was to continue for a couple of hours. The road surface is quite poor in spots, but dodging potholes is only one of the many hazards you will encounter on the Ring of Kerry! It is one of the busiest tourist routes in the country, and on any summer weekend in Kerry, you are bound to encounter Festivals and Fairs. Coming into Waterville was pretty unique – the annual Charlie Chaplin festival was in full swing! There was also a vintage tractor rally on the route… You won’t find such novelties in Kona!

Coming back into Killarney was slow and required negotiating a number of busy junctions and traffic lights. I was delighted to be feeling pretty good approaching the second transition. My parents had come down for the day, and after a lonely 7 hours of peddling, it was great to see familiar faces! I hadn’t had a ‘bathroom’ stop on the cycle course, and my bladder was very unhappy with me, so as I arrived in T2 the first thing I asked was – where’s the LOO??! With a marathon still to do, I wasn’t in too much of a hurry. I took my time, changing socks and putting lots of vaseline where it is always required and finally got to relieve myself. Setting off on the run, I was feeling pretty good. This was the part of the race that surprised me the most. It was 3 laps of 8.3 miles plus an additional run down and back to T2. The three laps take you through the national park. There was a lot of activity, with tourists, and horse-drawn carriages, kids and joggers all sharing the park so there was lots to see and plenty to distract you. The hydration stations were manned by a wonderful bunch of volunteers, who were so encouraging and helpful. It was great to see your fellow participants too and we gave each other a high five and a ‘keep her lit’ as we passed each other. The first two laps were okay, but there were a few steep hills on the course, which were really starting to sap my energy reserves. When I got to the feed station before the final lap, I told myself I could walk the hills on the final lap as long as I ran the rest. This seemed like a very generous gift to myself, as I had originally decided, that I wouldn’t allow myself to walk at all. So I set out on the final lap. The legs felt much heavier, and the soles of my feet were burning. I was looking forward to the hills now, so I could walk! It was great to see my parents one last time before the finish line, and as I passed my Dad, with his camera pointed at me yet again, I remembered he used to tell me the marathon only starts at the 20 mile mark, and he would know having done about 50 of them! But I then began to wonder… at what stage does an ironman start, because I was starting to think I’d like it to be over right about now!

8.3 miles later, it finally was. I passed over the finish line elated, and was presented with my medal. There was a lovely finish line atmosphere – in the end there were only 16 individual finishers, but there was full medical facilities, plenty of food, hot drinks and chairs for everyone. There were also 9 relay teams, so 25 runners would have passed over the line. The final finisher came in before 10pm, and was accompanied by a cyclist wearing a headlamp!

I was delighted with my time. I could definitely have pushed it more on the bike, but then I may not have managed a 4.11 marathon. I didn’t really look at the watch though, it was just about completion this time!

Overall, I would highly recommend the race and I would really encourage people to support this event. At 140 euro, its superb value, and the setting and scenery are unbeatable. The cycle route is busy. The road surface is dire in parts. You may round a corner and collide with a flock of sheep. You pass through a town populated with little men in bowler hats. The hydration stations are manned by friendly volunteer farmers, and you may need to ask for directions from tourists due to a lack of marshalls… but this all adds to the charm of the race! For an inaugaral event, I was very impressed. The organisers are committed to making it bigger and better next year, and are very keen to get feedback – both positive and negative – to ensure that any ‘glitches’ this year are avoided next year. It was a great end to my season, and I would love to do it again. But I’m taking a few weeks off now. My runners are staying at home when I go on holidays this weekend. Flip-flops and dancing shoes are the the only things going on my feet for the next 3 weeks!

Full results can be viewed on the race website.

Ironwoman

2011-08-27T15:12:00.000-07:00

Well done to Caoimhe who has posted a super time of 12.30 in the first running of the Hardman ironman distance event in Kerry with a super time of 12.30 minutes. A fantastic time based on the very tough bike circuit. The circuit takes in the ring of kerry and thats not easy. The first female club member to complete the distance so its extra special. Caoimhe was a full 2hours ahead of the next female. A small field would of made the day more mentally challenging. Top class and well done. I am sure a report will come through soon

Gaelforce race report

2011-08-25T15:03:00.000-07:00

Congradulations to Gwen, Jana and Eamonn who all completed this monster gruelling event last weekend. Apologies if I've missed anyone from the list of finishers. The race is a serious test of endurance (as you will see from Eamonn's race report below!).

Thanks to all the club members who have been sending on this years race reports. The main reason for becoming involved in a club is to share the highs, lows and feats of intestinal fortitude associated with endurance racing. Some of the best stories are from first attempts at the various events; so if you are racing over the next few weeks (Warriors?/ Ironman?/ Lough Key?) or have just completed an event and have time to tap your thoughts into a computer, mail them on to pro@sligotriathlon.ie.

Thanks to Eamonn (mouse) for the following account of another day in the hills of Mayo:

Gaelforce Oh My Good God

A couple of weeks ago I decided to give Gaelforce a lash. I thought I had the endurance and ran up and down Thrussmore a few times to harden myself up. I packed up the wife and kids on the Thursday and headed down for registration and bike drop. This was my first oversight, I told Clodagh it was a couple of miles past Westport, it was actually an hour past Westport to Killary Adventure centre. Then another 30 mins to Delphi for bike drop. Include two baby feeds and lunch we left Grange at 1pm we didn’t arrive home until 9.30pm.

Anyway Race Day

Got up at 2.30am (Eh?!?, STC) had porridge and pasta and hit the road for the pick up bus in Westport which had a departure time of 5.00am. The race started at 6.30am in the middle of nowhere surrounded by mountains and a white sandy beech. The first 9 miles consisted of a mix of road running and cross country running which included sheep trails, the edge of a small river bog etc. It was torture it was at this point it dawned on my THIS WAS NO TRIATHLON. Finished the run in 3^rd and into the kayaks across to forde. Next came the up hill run through the bog, it was horrendous. At one point my leg sunk to my thigh in a bog hole. Coming out of the bog I twinged my ankle, it was only a mile run to the bikes so I ran it off. At this stage I was still top five. Onto the bike towards the Reek. (My next oversight). The First 30km on the bike is rolling with one big climb. The last 5km is up hill via a bog road only fit for an ass and cart to the base of the Reek. OH MY GOD WHAT A BEAST.

I am from Mayo and was my first time to see the BEAST. Anyway I started and realised my ankle was not up to the abuse that was coming. I stopped and pondered and decided it was about time I climbed the reek so from this point on the race was over for me. I climbed up and walked down what a climb, the whole mountain wants to fall down, and everything is unstable. I found it harder walking down than up. When I was about half way up, the top three were descending the mountain. The technique was a type of surfing the shale, jumping and hoping for the best. The fastest descent time was 9 minutes. It took me 36mins. The scenery from the top of the Reek is breathtaking but it was not worth the effort. My body was aching all over and I only walked it. Back on the bike and another 3km section of Bog road. It was terrible I had to carry the bike for 3/4km because there was no road, it was if an earthquake had struck. The poor bike. It was here I spotted a guy on TT full carbon bike with a disk wheel and I though to myself it can only be a Dub.

Got to Westport and it was a 1km run to the finish along a rough shore line. Crossed the line had a cup of soup and collected my bike. I had enough of Gaelforce. What a brute of a race. A Challenge around every comer. Respect to the top competitors. Gaelforce would be best described as a battle of endurance. The scenery was amazing. This event was very well organised and definitely worth a lash at some stage in your triathlon career. Would I do it again NO. Form now on its triathlons all the way for me.

Eamon (mouse) McAndrew.

Results and more info can be found on the race website.

Sligo Time Trial Championships

2011-08-23T04:59:00.000-07:00

Looks like a big entry with loads of medals up for grabs. There looks like a good showing from all the clubs so come out and support. The winds look like they will be from the east which will mean an unusual tail wind on the way home and they will be very light. Looks like some fast times might be had. If anyone is not competing and can give a hand please let Daire know.

Last opportunity of the season for a good testing time with the Eire Og hosting of the Co Sligo Time Trial champs at Rosses Point. Good preparation for Lough Key triathlon and the last few races of the season. The event is open to all club members and anyone who cycles in the county. The entry and licence fee is € 10 for TI and Cycling Ireland members.

The time has come to decide who is the fastest man/women on two wheels in Sligo. The male open category should be decided between Micheal Devins of Eire og & Paul Keogh of the Wheelers. Rumor has it Daire Mooney is in secret training on his new testing machine and we will no after the Connacht champs on Sunday if he is in form. You cant rule out the mouse who was less than 30 secs behind Devins over the bike split at Rosses point triathlon and he had to contend with a transition.

The ladies section should be won by Collete Hennigan from the Wheelers and she will be pushed hard by some of the tri club ladies particularly Saoirse O Donohue.

The over 60's looks interesting with Eddie Ryan, Brenden Brogan, Mick Walton and Tony Mooney making a return to competitive action in the over 60's.

The Eire Og Cycling Club will be holding the County Sligo Time Trial Championships on Thursday August 25th. Sign on at the car park at Rosses Point beach from 6pm with sign on closing at 6.45 sharp. First rider off at 7:01, subsequent riders starting at 1 minute intervals. This is an open championship event so riders from all Cycling Ireland and Triathlon Ireland clubs are eligible to participate.

Riders will be graded into 3 divisions according to their abilities. There will also be a ladies category and a category for over 60 riders. Medals for the first 3 riders in each category.

The course will be and out and back 14km.
For more info contact info@connachtcycling.com or call 087 975 9854

Loughrea race report; three Sligo athletes in the top twenty...

2011-08-22T14:28:00.001-07:00

One day after the Lough Gill Swim and Letterkenny Sprint, Sligo Tri members were once more on the podium as another gang headed down to Loughrea for the annual sprint event, thanks go to Tommy Sheridan for this report (race photos are on the club photo page, courtesy of Tommy):

"Myself ,David Gunning and Jason Mc Morrow arrived in Portruny on the shores of Lough Ree at 9.30 am Sunday morn.

After driving the cycle course we parked up the triathlon team van and headed for registration which was fast and efficent, collected our goodie bag and t-shirt, got our gear together headed to bike park and set up for the race.

Conditions were near perfect, the swim was in a very sheltered bay on a triangle shaped course with a start in the water (which in my opion is the way all triathlons should be started, and not running in from 100 meters like headless chickens -like alot of races!).

There was no hanging around at the start and once the kayaks had us in line we heard the quickest 5,4,3,2,1 and it was game on.

Gary Higgins had a very fast swim, coming out in the top 15; followed closely by Jason, Rory Rafferty, myself and David.

Following a quick change it was over and off on an undulating 20 km bike course; Gary powered his way on the bike section to finish in 2nd place going into run, while Jason had another stormer of a cycle to move into the top 15.

I came in about a minute later, followed by David another minute and a half back. Up front there was a real battle going on with Gary taking the lead and Martin Grealish hot on his heels. In the last km Grealish just managed to pull away from Gary, who finished a close second.

It was great having a club member on the podium; meanwhile Jason was having a great run, picking up a few scalps along the way to finishing 10th overall in a time of 1hr 9 mins. I had my fastest sprint since Rush triathlon, Co. Dublin 1992!, finishing in 1 hr 12 mins 20 secs with the ever improving David Gunning just 3 sec's behind me, knocking another 3 mins of his PB -well done mate

Rory Rafferty had another solid performance in only his 3rd triathlon, all said and done I have to say I would recommend this event to all club members for next year -very safe swim, fast cycle route and flat 5km run (just one drag on it after 1km). We got a very genourous goodie bag, t-shirt, it was very well marshalled ,great food for all; and presentation done while we ate.

For an event that started at 12 noon we were on our way home at 2.30 -the way it should be (way ahead of an event I raced at Slane castle last year and mullaghmore this year). It was run by Athlone tri club, great group of people. As was said before we should support events run by clubs and not events management who are only in it for profit -you cant beat a triathlon run by triathletes for triathletes.

Roll on lough key in 2 weeks see ye all there, Tommy."

Full race results can be found here.

Neil takes third in L'kenny

2011-08-22T11:07:00.000-07:00

Letterkenny Sprint Triathlon race report (weekend update, Part 1)

Last weekends racing kicked off on Saturday with the inaugural Letterkenny Sprint Triathlon; and another great performance for Sligo with Neil coming third and Ray finishing just outside the top ten -thanks go to Neil fo the race report:

"110 keen triathletes took part in the 1st ever Letterkenny Sprint Triathlon organised by the Tri 24/7 club.
Brian Campbell took victory in the men's race thanks to the fastest swim and bike splits. Alan Mitchell was 2nd 2 minutes or so down on ex pro Campbell and Neil Walton rounded out the top 3.
The women's race was hard fought but Eimear O'Brien held on after a strong swim to win. Anne Paul chased hard on the 5km run but ran out of ground and had to settle for 2nd and Margaret Kelly took 3rd.

Club members that took part this weekend where Neil Walton Ray & Declan Bryne and John Heneghen. The event was held in Garten Activity Centre in Glenvagh National Park.
Swim was a very accurate 750m Swim out and back course, the cycle was a very tough hilly technical course, and a hilly and wood land trail 5k run.
The club had two members in the top 20, Ray Bryne had a great event and came in a very strong 12th place overall, Ray will be one to watch for the further. Neil Walton came 3rd overall, and was chasing down 2nd spot as his legs was coming back to him on the last 2k of the run.

Declan Byrne was will up especially for carrying an injury, and John Heneghen had a very solid performance to finish in the top half of the field."

full results can be found here.

Lough Gill Swim Report

2011-08-22T11:00:00.000-07:00

Well done to all the sligo tri club members who took part and completed the inagural lough gill 8.5km swim in aid of the hospice. Lynsey Dunne was first non wetsuit lady, Caoimhe was first wetsuit lady and Sandra was third. Other club members who took part were Stewart McKenna, Andy Hamilton, Sam McGarry, Paul Burns, Skinny McMorrow, Anthony Blake, Padraig Hanley, Shane O'Doherty and David Downes.
Conditions were pretty good with lowish winds and sunshine for most of the race. The water was quite choppy at the exit of the bonnet river but calm otherwise. The distance and lack of float in the lake made for a really gruelling swim and everyone was glad to see the shore at the finish with the final swimmer coming home in 4.5 hours. A great crowd with a Dj and marquee had gathered at the finish.
The event was extremely well organised and a credit to the committee and everyone who helped them. The goodie bags were packed tighter than anything we'd ever seen and each swimmer had a kayaker to accompany them and some even two kayakers. The final tally for the fundraising will not be in for a week or two but it looks set to break the eu5000 target. If anyone wants to donate contact any of the swimmers or Sam, Kieran and Paul.
This will become an annual event and there's 51 weeks to prepare for anyone intending to do it next time!

Sligo Triathlon Club

*Go to sligotriathlon.ie*

Training Days

Rosses Point Olympic & Sprint Triathlons open for entry

Be Careful at Hazlewood

The great Sligo Tri Quiz

I think i need to replenish my electrolytes....

Boyle Charity Duathlon

Saturday Coached Swim Session

Running Session Thurs moved to Sports Complex

Sun 22 Jan Cycle Route

Club Coached Running Session 7pm Tonight

Club Turbo Sessions

How To Avoid Punctures on The Bike

Swimming update

Rosses Point - Duathlon 2012

Try A Tri Event 15th April

Carrick 10k road run 2012

Good turn out for club spin yesterday

Cycle Route 8th Jan 2012

New swim coaching term

Results from December Swim Time Trial 400m

Congradulations

Turkey Time Trial

Injury Prevention in Swimming

Sympathies

Photos from Ladies Initiative

Bike training (18th) cancelled...

Turkey Time Trial

Triathlon Ireland Event Calendar Released

Last Sundays training Spin

Pool Time Trial 7:50pm Saturday - Sligo Regional Sports Centre

National Series Races and Dates Announced

Sprint

Olympic

Voya triathlon discount

Warrior of the Sea 2012 Dates Announced

this evenings run session is cancelled due to adverse weather conditions.

Pool closed until thurs

Club Bike Training, Sun 4th October

Vincent Tinsley - RIP

Injury prevention post - Liam @ Sligo Advanced Physio

Galway Half Iron Man

Christmas Day Splash - Midday, Rosses point, Sligo.

Spaces available for bike fit

Sunday Bike Training

Second hand tri-gear

For Newcomers to Triathlon

Club Gear for 2012

Winter Training Timetable

2012 Rosses Point race video

Cycling Training Day

Club Members Honored at ILSDA Awards at Weekend

The Women that Took the Autumn Challenge – Their Triathlon Success!

Reminder - AGM Saturday 12th Nov 7pm Glasshouse

Footage from last summers race

Ladies Try a Tri Results

Ladies Try a Tri on Sunday

Joes 2 Pros Bike Fitting Session 12th Nov

Lough Gill Swimmers Civic Reception

Winter training times

Athlete profile; Caoimhe Ni Mhuruchu

2012 season preperation -already!

Swimming Update

Bike fitting -club bike measuring

Traders Cup

Local bike race TOMORROW (Oct 1st)

Blacksod Olympic Report, Part II

Belmullet race report

Discount for members

The Launch of the Curlieu Wheelers Cycling Club

Congrats to Eve and Scot Reid....

RNLI Seafood Night 23rd Sept

POOL SWIMMING KICKS OFF TOMORROW

Rookie Women Take up the Autumn Triathlon Challenge

Weekend racing reminder...

Lough Key Race Report

Channel 4 Coverage of Galway 70.3

Diary of an world c'ship qualifier

Club training triathlon tomorrow...CANCELLED

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