Sean Kelly 2011 – 90km

by Brian Smith

 I joined the sportif club about 3 months ago,I can remember my first group 1 spin was about 25km in the pouring rain with katja was probably the furthest I had ever went on a bike that was ok followed by a few 30-40k spins with one in particular I can remember stood to me quiet a hilly one with Ian,Maeve,and Mike0.

After that I doubted my ability but stuck at it week in week out.I wanted the Sean Kelly to be my first sportive.Originally I was going to do the 50k even after been out on a 65k with a few of the guys last Sunday.We did some of the 90k route but I was still unsure about which route I would do,maybe the 50k would be the easy way out so I decided on the last day of registration to do the 90k.

I didnt know what to expect.I headed up with ray mannix this morning the atmosphere was unreal with about 1600 riders music the works and the sun splitting the rocks.By now all the nerves were gone and was really up for it.I did the first 45km in 1hr 45 mins where we had a food stop in tramore race course,also had a gearing problem for about 20 mins before hitting tramore.Great setup at the racecourse,kevin from spokes sorted my problem.Stopped for about 30 mins.

Was speaking to a guy at the stop who told me the way back was tougher but didnt let it put me off.First hill was annestown I think tough auld b@st*%d but made it up next hill was even tougher little did I know there was about 7 more steep hills ahead,but I stuck to my plan wasnt going to get off my bike for nobody,even though I felt as if the muscles in my thighs were going to burst!and as the great Lance Armstrong once said pain is temporary,quitting lasts forever.

Saw alot of riders walking up hills but didnt opt for the easy way out!Arrived back in 1hr 45mins,so overall took me 3hrs 30 in which I was pleased considering it was my first sportive and had never did more than 65k on a bike.Day went really well even got Sean Kellys autograph and photo taken with the great man.Thanks to Ray also for sticking with me on the day,who also put in a great performance,well done Ray.Looking forward to going out with group 2 now.

Onwards and upwards from here cant wait for the next sportive.What a day!