Wheelers battle with tough headwind in TT

And to make matters worse there was a tough headwind to Rathfriland.

No doubt the tough course and headwind would put riders off and so it proved with only 15 hardy riders starting.

First off went J Kernaghan heading to Glascar via Rathfriland, The Diamond, Annaclone and to the finish on the flyover at Banbridge.

Fastest man on the night with an absolute super effort was Paul Wilkinson with a 39.59. Make no mistake - this was some ride.

D McKnight was second with a 40.45 and his was a fine effort as well. Third fastest and second fastest Wheeler was C. Adamson with a 43.40 and was he pleased.

M. Alexander was fourth with a 43.56 and with Davy Cartmill getting 44.03 it shows how close this pair was.

C. Hodgen’s 48, and M McKnight’s 45 were good efforts on the night.

Race secretary Clive Adamson says, “These are the men who are faithful attendees to the club training runs, that’s why they r going well and will get faster.

“We had a very good run last Thursday night, it was very tough and fast but you only have to look at the blog to see how everyone enjoyed it - not one complaint and only good comments.

“And although there was a good turnout of DZ riders there should be more out, especially those who are not going the way they would like.”

This week’s race might have to be changed to the Rathfriland Road due to road works at Corbet but Clive says he’s expecting a big turnout on Thursday night on the Warrenpoint Road for the Eric Maxwell Memorial 10 run in conjunction with the Dave Kane League.

Last year’s winner, Paul Healion, was killed a few months later in a car crash. He had won it for the past two years so there will be new name on the trophy.

Any member of the Wheelers not riding is asked to get in touch with Billy for marshalling.