The Mark of a Champion!

What a weekend?? It's not often that mere mortals like us get to speak to and better still cycle with World Champions and former professional athletes who plied their trade and our hobby at the dizziest of heights, but those dreams were realised by several Wheelers this weekend.Last Friday night in the lovely surrounds of the Annebrook Hotel's, Barlowe Room we gathered in impressive numbers for what proved to be one of the most fascinating events we have had in many years. The original plan was thrown somewhat into disarray by the forced withdrawal only hours before the event of the sports psychologist who fell ill but hopefully we will rearrange this in the future.First on the agenda was Dr. Edel Duffy, who gave a talk on nutrition for cyclists. The content of Edel's presentation was absolutely fantastic and judging by reactions from those in attendance, extremely informative. Edel spoke of and demonstrated the benefits of several foodstuffs and drinks which we are very familiar with but maybe were not exactly sure of how and why they work. Several people agreed that her informal style of delivery and interaction with the crowd was extremely helpful and that they would be taking much more care and interest in what they will be drinking and eating in the future.Edel completed her presentation by inviting the audience to have their Body Mass Indices measured and later stated that some were pleasantly and others, unpleasantly surprised!! Ironically this was taking place during the interval and whilst we were waiting for the cocktail sausages to be served, which when they arrived, were duly devoured.The next speaker was Sligo man Mark Scanlon, former Junior World Champion (1998) and former professional tour rider. From talking to many members over the last few weeks I know that Mark's arrival was eagerly awaited and he certainly did not disappoint. Prior to giving his talk Mark presented young Leigh Walsh with his trophy for winning the Under 14 hill climb last summer, this will surely be a treasured photo for Leigh.For the next 90 minutes Mark fielded question after question about several subjects relating to his career in the top flight amateur and professional ranks. His stories from behind the scenes of the pro tour were enthralling and had all in attendance hanging on his every word. Mark also imparted words of advice to our racing group ranging from training regimes to tactics in actual races. Naturally, the subject of performance enhancing drugs and the myth that surrounds this in professional cycling was raised but with a cool and measured manner Mark gave his honest and personal opinions.He clearly stated that it became increasingly difficult to compete against the cheats but believes that cycling authorities are at least working to eradicate this from the sport. On the enigma that is Lance Armstrong he said, that in his opinion Lance is one of the most scrutinised athletes in the world and believes that he is clean, as to come back from retirement with seven Tour de France victories to his credit and risk being unveiled as a cheat is not something anyone would do lightly.On completion of his talk, Mark was presented with a Lakeside Wheelers fleece and thanked by the large gathering for his time and patience. It is important to point out that for this evening Mark travelled from his home in Sligo and gave his time free of charge. Following the talks Mark mingled with and continued to speak freely with the crowd in the old house bar.The excitement did not however end there as the following morning at least 60 riders turned up at the ORS for a spin. The good news was that Mark had stayed over to join the group which left Robbie with a dilemma as to the permitted size of the peloton. Exceptions were made on account of the visitor and over twenty Wheelers left for a nice 35 mile trip via Kinnegad, Tyrellspass and back to ORS.However, prior to departure we did have to familiarise the Champ with one of Wheelers' core principles.... No Helmet No Spin, to which he replied "I never wear a helmet, and didn't for my first year on the pro circuit". Reluctantly he covered his balding head with a "lid" supplied by Karl Moran, whilst at the same time muttering something about Communism!!!This was hopefully the start of a link between Lakeside, Mark and his club in Sligo and already there are rumours of his pending presence on the Into the West trip!!!A special word of thanks must go to the Staff and Management of the Annebrook Hotel for their wonderful hospitality on Friday night. Also to Mark, Cathy and Joe for their help and finally, most importantly, to all of you who once again turned out in huge numbers to support your club.With the Sunday spins for all groups now officially starting at 10am until further notice, this gave some breathing space as yet again "Jack" frost returned. We did however get cycling and as the numbers grow it is becoming very difficult to keep up with all the news from the various groups. I can only relate from Conor's B group which headed out to Killucan, Raharney, Drumcree and 'Pollard. Due to visits from the puncture fairy and excessive numbers it was decided to split from here with Conor taking the majority home via Collinstown whilst Damien and Paraic led a smaller group out to Coole and home via Multy. A beautiful if chilly morning meant that everybody really enjoyed the exercise and hopefully the same applies to all other groups. I later found out that Tom Shaw went to Athboy, Liam Whelan to Tullamore and I believe Robbie's crew went out to Taughmon to play around with some mats???Finally, there are some notices I have been asked to make you aware of regarding upcoming events.There is a cycle from Mizen Head to Malin Head being organised in aid of some children's charities but dates and other details escape me at this moment however, George Bell snr has information if anyone is interested.Paraic Devine of The Spring Spin committee has asked me to inform you that as of tonight Sunday, February 28th the entry for this year's cycle which takes place on April 24th and 25th is closed. Paraic says the interest this year was phenomenal and that the organisers are delighted with the response. Almost 100 entrants signed up and they wish to say a big thank you to you all. As with any event of this nature logistics and safety play a major role so for these reasons the closing date has been announced.Thank you and stay fit.