Wilkinson finishes the season in style

WEST Down Wheelers' Paul Wilkinson has finished the season in style.

In last week’s 10 mile TT at Warrenpoint he recorded a 21.56 to finish the season once again as West Down’s fastest rider. With only two 10s left he won’t be beaten.

Mark Alexander was second with 23.14 - this was a fine effort but as his last three 10s on this road were 22s he will be a wee bit disappointed but he can look back on his best season yet.

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

Davy Cartmill and Allister Walker both had 23s – Davy’s was 23.39 and Allisters 23.54. These are two more who can look back on a good years racing, and as this is Allister’s first year he should go even better next year.

The next three riders had 24s - Ian Walker had a 24.11, Chrissy Hodgen had 24.33 which was good enough to get him a PB, so both Ian and Chrissy have shown up well this year.

But the man with the biggest smile was another new rider, Eddy Cantly. Eddy has finished the year with a PB, his 24.54 was two minutes quicker than his last time on this course only a few weeks ago and boy was he pleased . He too will be a different rider next year.

Young Noel Doyle had a 25.03 which was a good time as he only rode a road bike he proved last year on a TT bike how he can go with a 23.

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

Philly Hanna, who has little time on his bike due to working, had a 28. He could well improve next year with a good winter’s training under his belt - all in all a good night’s racing.

The Club Chairman is asking all riders to make an effort in last couple of races. At this time of year riders intend to ease off as its been a long year, but with Paul McManus and Pete Savage missing through triathalons; Jonny Cromie and Paul McKinstry out unwell; Clive out due to an injury and Richie and Philly mostly working the club needs everyone available to turnout.

On Sunday some of the West Down riders took part in the lap of the Lough Cycle, starting and finishing in Lurgan, riding round Lough Neagh for charity.

In the next two weeks or so 12 members of West Down Wheelers will again ride round Lough Neagh in a sponsored ride for cancer. Some of the riders will be doing in and around 100 mile, depending on where they start.