Louise Represents Ulster

Monday, August 1, 2011
Ballymena rider Louise Fullerton represented Ulster at the Tain Team Tour 2011 this weekend past.
The Ulster ladies were the only female team to enter. Other team members were Mandy Collie (Basso), Amy Brice (Phoenix) and Tonya Moran (Phoenix)
On the first stage Ulster Ladies recorded a time of 49.13 having never rode a ttt together, they didn't quite get the formation right but a respectable time and all four riders came over the line together.
The second stage, was 90km undulating course, with a country back road climb. About 15 kms from the finish the peleton split on the climb, but all Ulster riders completed well.
 On the third stage the race was all together 35kms into race. Again it all split on the climb. The finish was at the top of the Mast in the Cooley mountains, which has the reputation of being the second hardest climb in Ireland. 6 miles on rough ground, very steep sections of the climb were impossible in the saddle, steep hairpins, a side wind and a drizzle up into mist to complete the experience. It was an achievement at the end of 70kms to reach the top.
 All riders finished bar Amy Brice, who punctured about 15kms from the finish and unable to get a wheel.
There was a great team spirit and respect from the male teams.
 Louise would like to thank Cycling Ulster and Sean McNicholl (who did mechanic and back up) for their support.