Brian Cockbain Memorial Ride around the River

“Is this the finish line?” asks John

After the Ride – Kirk, Mike, Barry John, Dave & George

Kirk & Dan discuss the Enduro mountain bike

30.11.14 DUBBUG REPORT
George Smith

 Cycling is more than just about exercise.  Today’s inaugural “Brian Cockbain Memorial Ride around the River” was an example of the mateships and camaraderie that cycling engenders.  We loved meeting cyclists from all over the Mid North Coast.

As to the ride itself.  98 riders, of varying ability, set off from Macksville in beautiful warm and sunny weather.  Those of us who might be carrying a little too much “condition” or those unused to cycling distances were soon found out when faced with the Congarinni Hill.  We found the cryptic signs along the way enjoyable – well perhaps not the one that said there was lots more climbing to come!  Once surmounted that hill became a yardstick for the many, many, hills to follow.

It was not a race, as my speed will adequately testify.  I congratulate those who finished quickly, and the rest who simply managed to get home before the cut off.

Regrettably only five of our DUBBUG members were able to make it, but those who did enjoyed both the challenge and the refreshments afterwards.

It was poignant to hear John McCormack cry out: “not another Hill!” as we climbed the stairs to the Star Hotel verandah.

All in all a great day out and our sincere thanks to the Macksville Cycle Club, the Nambucca river Festival Organisers, and the many volunteers who manned turns, drink stations, and the Start/Finish lines.

In other news, the Specialized team held an open day yesterday to which a few of our members attended.  Many “top of the line” bikes were on display and available for trialling, not just limited to road bikes.

Be sure to click the link to “read more” to see photos from both events.

Next Week’s Sunday DUBBUG Ride will be a 60 km jaunt around Coffs Harbour starting at Urunga BP at 8 a.m.  The Wednesday and Friday rides will start at the North Urunga BP as usual.