Women’s Track Night Resounding Success

On Friday night a special women's only track training night was held at Orangefield and it proved to be a huge success. With many new faces not only to to the track but to cycling, the scene was set for a great night. With coaches and track regulars, Anthony Mitchell, Brian Cardy, Nicola Oldham, Rachel Mitchell and Terry Mackin on hand there was plenty of expert advice for the newcomers.

Some began by using their road bikes to get a feel of the track while others learned how to ride a fixed wheel on the infield but it was not long before all had the confidence to begin training on the track itself. By the time the first hour was over the women were well into the swing of it and could not wait for one group to finish to grab a bike and get up on track.

For some the biggest difficulty was in actually stopping and there were a few laughs as one woman circumnavigated the track three times before she was able to stop. For others it was using cleats and clip in pedals that created a few laughs. While the track bikes can be equipped with flat pedals and toe straps those who had experience of being clipped in wanted to ensure that others gained some experience in this as well.

Terry, Anthony, Brian and Liam McKivergan were kept busy swapping pedals around to give everyone a chance to ride on what was most comfortable for them. It was also great to see Liam coming back to fitness after his recent accident in an off road event.

Caroline Patterson out again following her accident last year and was as keen as ever. She took to the track like a 'duck to water' and could hardly wait to get up again. Other riders who quickly showed aptitude were Joanne McCallum, Amy Brice of Phoenix and Taryn McCoy of the Bikedock Belles while the girls from the schools initiative in Loughbrickland quickly gained confidence.

Afterwards the well organised Nicola had provided tea and buns for everyone which turned the evening into a very social event. All were delighted with their first experience of the track and wanted to know when the next session would take place. Many thanks to all the organisers for giving of their time.

FOR SOME MORE PICS OF THE EVENT CLICK ON THE GALLERY LINK BELOW.

VIEW GALLERY OF THE WOMEN'S TRACK TRAINING NIGHT MAY 2011 BY MARIAN LAMB

Report and Pics Marian Lamb