Jack Frost takes round one of 2026

Lakeside Wheelers Notes

There was a frosty start to the New Year for road cyclists as temperatures plummeted below zero leaving roads off limits for cycling. Even the canal, which is normally a great option during cold spells was risky as there are several tarmac sections in between the gravel sections. So, there is no doubt that houses were buzzing with the whirring sound of the turbo which some people love, and just as many hate. A necessary evil for those wishing to keep the legs in tune while others are delighted with the chance to stay in bed a little longer than usual on a Sunday morning and “recover”.

However, the cold snap is no deterrent to the members who participate in the off-road disciplines like Cyclocross (CX). There was a rescheduled round of the Leinster CX League held in Wexford recently which saw riders racing through flooded fields and over sand dunes, real European style stuff. This was a successful day for Kate Horohoe who finished in 2nd place on the day but more importantly, this result gave her 2nd overall in Leinster for this season, so big congratulations to her.

In fact, last Sunday there was another round of the National League staged in Ballinasloe, Co. Galway with Lakeside Wheelers well represented as usual across most categories (reports next week). The previous week was no different when several members attended the Oldcastle Gravel Spin. This is a 70km ride through all sorts of terrain including farm fields, quarries, rugged laneways and, being in Oldcastle, several hills had to be conquered. The weather on the day though couldn’t have been better with dry ground and bright blue skies. Well done to all who participated and to everyone who got out over the Christmas and New Year period.

50th Anniversary Kit Sales

With 2026 now well and truly upon us it is time for the committee and indeed, all members to turn the focus to the club’s 50th anniversary celebrations. The first big event will be happening in April when the club will be going on the overnight spin to Athlone. Most of the important arrangements for this event are in hand with dining, accommodation and entertainment all secured. The club group leaders will soon get together and identify the various routes and refreshment stops for all the groups that will take to the roads of the greater midlands area on the weekend of April 18 and 19.

It is hoped that every rider taking part in the 50th spin will be kitted out in the commemorative jersey which has been especially designed to celebrate the Golden Anniversary year. In order to avail of a special discount from the supplier and to ensure delivery in time for April 18th the committee have organised two evenings for members to come to the clubhouse and purchase the new jersey and gilet. This is a once-off piece of kit and does not replace the official club jersey.

Committee members Martin Nally and Shay O’Toole will be in the clubhouse on Thursday, January 8 from 7pm to 8pm and then again on the evening of Tuesday, January 13th from 5.30pm to 6.45pm to facilitate sales of the new gear. Members are encouraged to make sure they attend on one of these evenings as orders will be going in immediately after January 13. The cost of the jersey and gilet is being significantly subsidised by the club in an attempt to ensure everyone can avail of this very exciting offer. Payments for kit ordered must be made on the night so, please save the date and come along on one of the evenings to be part of this very special occasion.

Important dates for 2026

Event organisers have been busy already this year getting permits secured for the Tour of the Lakes and Mullingar GP.

The 2026 Tour of the Lakes will be held on Sunday, June 14th while the Mullingar GP will return to its usual date of July 5.

Due to the celebration year, both events and any other Lakeside Wheelers events in 2026 will have a 50th anniversary element added to mark the big occasion.