Ballymena Road Club – Chain Reaction Cycles - made a great start to their 2012 "Fun Tour” series when 56 riders turned out for last Saturday’s first ride in this year’s Autumn and Winter programme.
The weather conditions were perfect and everyone enjoyed a warm and dry ride. The turnout of 56, which included several newcomers, as well as a few former and "lapsed” club members, was very encouraging.
The touring section had the biggest bunch, with 36 riders completing a 33 miles ride which took in Slaght, Kellswater, Oldwood Road, Lenagh Road, Ballylurgan Road, Magheralane Road, to Randalstown.
The final miles included Tannaghmore Road to Clonkeen then Taylorstown, Ballybollen, Ballymontenagh, Straid then Slaght corner and Ballee.
The 20 riders in the "A” group completed a 53 miles ride to Larne, Carnlough, then up the Ballyvaddy road and across to the top of Glencloy, before riding in through the Braid to Broughshane and back to Ballymena at an average speed of over 19mph.
Many thanks to all those who donated at least £5 to the charity fund which already stands at £445. £295 was raised on Saturday and this will be added to the £150 from the "Nine glens challenge”, which took place on 29th July.
The minimum £5 "entry fee donation” is a one off payment to cover the whole 13 weeks. One of this year’s nominated charities is the Chernobyl Children’s appeal NI.
The fun tours will continue each Saturday morning from Rex Bonar House at 9.30am, everyone is welcome, although all youth participants, who must be at least 13 years old, must also be accompanied by an adult.