Open to all female cyclists, the Wheelworx Orwell Ladies Crit. League will run for six weeks starting with a time trial in Glencullen, followed by five criterium races on a circuit at Sandyford Industrial Estate.
Round one is a straight five kilometre time trial starting at Johnny Fox’s Pub in Glencullen, Co Dublin, along the Pine Forest road. Sign on opens at 6:30pm with the first rider off at 7:01pm. Food and prize-giving follows in Johnny Fox's Pub. TT or ‘Tri’ bars and equipment are allowed and lifts to the start from Joe Daly's Cycles, Dundrum will be available on request.
The time trial will be followed by five criterium rounds (approximately 20-30 minutes long) on a flat 800m circuit in Sandyford Industrial Estate on Tuesdays 26th April, 3rd May, 10th May, 17th May and 24th May 2011. Sign-on also starts at 6.30pm with the first race start scheduled for 7pm.
The races are open to female riders of all fitness and ability levels including beginners, youths and juniors. With expert advice on hand, the League is aimed at those interested in getting into racing for the first time and will be great for improving fitness, cornering and bunch skills.
There will be nightly cash prizes and refreshments, overall and most improved rider trophies. Entry is €5 and a Club Racing Licence is required. However, unlicenced riders can purchase a one-day Cycling Ireland Licence on the night for €10.
Separate A , B and Youth races are planned for each circuit race, which will be handicapped based on ability. A rider’s best five out of six races will count. There will be a new scoring system this year, aimed at rewarding riders for whatever placing they achieve There will be 40 points for 1st place in each race, followed by 35, 30, 27, 25, 23 for the remainder of the Top 6. After that the points will go down in 1 point increments all the way down to 5 points for 24th place. There will still be 5 points for all riders who sign-on even if they fail to finish for any reason. A properly serviced racing bike and helmet are essential and there will be a bike check courtesy of Joe Daly Cycles. Those riding to the races should remember to bring lights as it will be getting dark after the race.
This promises to be an action packed and fun filled league with lots of riders having already confirmed their intention to race.
For a map of the TT route, see:-http://www.mapmyride.com/route/ie/glencullen/804126867351311198
For a map of the criterium circuit, see:-http://www.mapmyride.com/route/ie/stillorgan/862126943817828346.
Email Aideen Collard or phone her at 087 4179967 to confirm whether you plan to attend any of the races, if you require any further information or need a lift from Dundrum.
Photos courtesy of Brendan Culleton
