Quick Release Cycling Club

QRCC Q&A

 Name and Hometown?

Keith Johnson home town is now Sittingbourne although I was born in Bexley, South East London.

 How Long have you been cycling and with Quick Release Cycling Club?

I have been cycling since I was a child and I was a “proper” cyclist by the age of 7 when I broke my collarbone while out trying to “race” my mates in the same street.  I’ve been riding with QRCC since 2013 – very soon after the club existed I met up with Luke and a few of the guys and had a couple of rides out with them before signing up.

 In the course of a normal week, How often do you Cycle?

At the moment I am on the bike usually 4 or 5 days in any 7 to try and maintain some semblance of a training regime but like most people I have to fit this around work and family commitments so sometimes I ride at unsocial hours and sometimes I make use of the rollers at home.

 What Bike(s) do you own?

Currently I have 3 bikes, 1 MTB, 1 Road and 1 Track Bike, that are in regular use although I also have an old road bike from the late 90’s that is permanently set up on the turbo and that is a shared use between myself and my daughter who also makes use of the turbo in the winter months.

 What are your Plans/Aims in 2016?

2016 is mainly focussed on track events and training is geared towards that although I will be out and about on club rides and maybe some local events to support local clubs and the work they do for the sport of cycling.  

 Favourite thing about Cycling?

For me its the social aspect of cycling – no matter where you end up there is usually somebody there that you know and you can have a chat and pass the time away over a coffee.  The comradeship amongst cyclists is strong and healthy.

 Why ride for QRCC?

Local club run by local people and for me having been with the club from the early days it is rewarding to see the club grow and establish itself.  

 Favourite Climb/Road you have ridden?

One word answer – Belgium.  Ridden there a few times now for a variety of reasons and events and enjoy it every single time.  If I could live there I would

 Favourite Pro Cyclist?

Alex Dowsett.  A likable character who is inspirational to many.  Alongside competing at a professional level, he still gets to his local club when he can and gets involved in local club TT’s.  He is also a regular at the Winter Track League at the Lee Valley velodrome in London.

 Favourite Pro Race?

Outdoor - Liege-Bastogne-Liege.One day race that really tests the riders and sorts the men from the boys.  Has a little of everything in it and just draws the spectators in to an extent that it becomes compulsive viewing.  One of the great “monuments”.

QRCC Q&A

    Name and Hometown?

Pierre Hall, Newington

  How Long have you been cycling and with Quick Release Cycling Club?

I joined in July last year

  In the course of a normal week, How often do you Cycle?

I try to aim for between 2/3 rides a week (indoor and outdoor) although this depends on my work schedule and aim for 50 miles+ minimum a week

  What Bike(s) do you own?

I have a couple of carbon Giant bikes – a TCR and a Defy, both with the same 11-speed Shimano 105 groupset to keep it simple for me on maintenance!

  What are your Plans/Aims in 2016?

Since joining the club I’ve been really concentrating on my cycling fitness (that has developed massively) and this year is about riding for longer. I’ve set a target of 3,000 miles on Strava and I’m already 1,000 miles in.

  Favourite thing about Cycling?

Probably that I’ve found something with a mix of fitness, technical technique, competitiveness and banter that I could sustain into my sixties. However, the sound of dozen cyclists putting the hammer down in a peloton at speed is hard to beat!

  Why ride for QRCC?

The prospect of joining a club was quite daunting. However, after meeting and being encouraged by an existing member to come along – I haven’t looked back. The club members really looked after me and made me feel at home on those first rides and I’ve enjoyed the company ever since.

  Favourite Climb/Road you have ridden?

I recently took my bike back to the origin of my childhood and rode up to Snowdon and around the Llyn Peninsula. I was great to combine the freedom of a great ride with fantastic views whilst reminiscing about my childhood.

  Favourite Pro Cyclist?

After reading Chris Froome’s book recently I have a lot of respect for the way that guy can suffer!

  Favourite Pro Race?

QRCC Q&A

                                     Name and Hometown?

  Dan Eglinton – Sittingbourne, although I’m an adopted Kent lad as I was born and raised in Essex (that would explain a lot!)

    How Long have you been cycling and with Quick Release Cycling Club?

  Non-stop since I was a kid, after school I was into my mountain biking but road cycling was always my favourite, I got back into it about 10 years ago when I moved to Kent. I was solo cycling until I joined QRCC as a wanted to have more of a social side to my passion.

    In the course of a normal week, how often do you Cycle?

  2-3 times, as with most people I’m restricted by work commitments. Occasionally I will resort to the turbo but I hate it, I would rather be out on the road even if the weather is poo.

    What Bike(s) do you own?

  3 at the moment, A Marin mountain bike and 2 road bikes, a Giant TCR for the winter which I love and a Pinarello Dogma for the summer, I am hoping to buy another one (or two) this year - however my shed is full of bikes.

    What are your Plans/Aims in 2016?

  Well nothing really big, I rode the Flanders route earlier in the year which seems to be becoming an annual event, I’m not sure that there is a better place in the world to ride than Belgium, you can feel the history and passion for cycling everywhere..

  I have the Roubaix club ride to look forward to, I also have 2 trips planned to this year’s TDF, one riding a few of the stages then watching the race the other is the final day on the Champs-Elyees and hopefully another trip to Flanders.

  I do have a couple of things I want to achieve; the Marmotte in 2017 - this might be a stretch too far as I am a poor climber and I want to climb the Stelvio Pass.

  Favourite thing about Cycling?

  Wow, good question…. No one in thing particular – The pain, suffering and hurt is kind of addictive and what makes the sport great.

    Why ride for QRCC?

  Having been a solo rider for a long time I felt I needed to push myself further and also spend time with likeminded people and to learn new routes. I looked around the area for local clubs and someone suggested QRCC and I haven’t looked back since. The club is really well run by people who love and care about our sport. I have made some really good friends through QRCC.

      Favourite Climb/Road you have ridden?

  Mmm, lots and for varying reasons:

  For pure emotion and elation nothing could beat conquering The Col du Galibier, it simply takes your breath away, one of those experiences that you just cannot put into words.

  The Koppenberg is another favourite, the first time I tried I failed, it spat me out and threw me onto the verge, however we went back this year and I tamed it – it helped that is was dry this time, trying to climb a 22% gradient in the wet and on cobbles is just about the most technically challenging thing you can do on a bike.

  However my favourite ride and the one I am most looking forward to doing again next year is the Col du Glandon, it has everything. The scenery is amazing and seems to change through every corner, dams, reservoirs, villages, woodlands, wildlife and staircase descents, it goes on forever and the summit is spectacular.

    Favourite Pro Cyclist?

  Bernie Eisel, if I was a woman I would…. I nearly wet myself when I saw him at De Panne, I was driving to the last day of the race to watch Bradley Wiggins complete in his last TT. The last day consists of 2 races, the road race in the morning followed by the TT in the afternoon, Bernie had ridden the morning race but had chosen not to complete the TT. So I drove past him as he was riding back to the Service Course, he was still in his Team Sky kit and sporting a full beard, I was screaming in the car – ITS BERNIE, BERNIE…. ARGHHHHH. One of my best cycling memories.

  Favourite Pro Race?

Name and Hometown

Steven Melia Chamberlain of Sheerness

  How Long have you been cycling and with Quick Release Cycling Club?

I've been cycling nearly four years and with the club nearly three

  In the course of a normal week, How often do you Cycle?

I try to get two structured sessions on the turbo and race online but I usually get a larger ride

in, but that could be Road, cross or actually racing

  What Bike(s) do you own?

One steel cross bike, and three roadies, none of which cost more than £500 􀀀 I won't speak about the add ons.

What are your Plans/Aims in 2016?

I want to be racing regularly after some false starts and bad luck.

  Favourite thing about Cycling?

The rush of going at speed and making pain my bitch.

  Why ride for QRCC?

It's a young club that has developed an incredible amount but kept a nice compact group,

many who can call each other friends. 2016 is an exciting year as the club is reaching into

different aspects of cycling, on the racing scene and other disciplines involving mud. Its

never been better to represent

  Favourite Climb/Road you have ridden?

To the Lounge... Although a close second would be the Touree d'Arenberg. No stretch of

road has left my loins weeping, and wish to do it again.

  Favourite Pro Cyclist?

The Panzerwagen, Tony Martin.

  Favourite Pro Race?

ParisRoubaix.

Pedal for a purpose, As it said on the tin, we pedalled for a purpose, in support of Demelza. A very worthwhile cause.

  8 members meet at the greyhound track, Sittingbourne and started the epic 102 mile ride. Some on old bike, some on new winter bikes.   A steady pace was decided, about 15mph.  The route was  via some of the most beautiful placed in Kent and Sussex.

  We travelled via Wormshill, where Luke’s training sessions paid off as David Mantle and Richard Tester nearly collided due to Richard not reading the sign. Using the push away technique David and Richard safely managed to continue avoiding a crash.

  The long drag up wormshill saw Chris ( the new guy) tackle this hill and Stede for the first time.

  It was along to Headcorn for the first refreshment stop. After a brief stop the group headed to Rye. (Chris taking the classic route) With the undulating hills levelling out for a more flatter but windier route, the second stop was an impromptu café stop in Rye centre. (Dan’s idea) With the boiling hot coffee drunk and cake inside us, it was onto Gary and Dave’s stop somewhere in Sussex.

  50 miles in and legs starting to hurt, we turned for home and the thought of White Hill awaited us. The pace quickened and progress was steady. The base of White hill was the start of pain, suffering and achievement. Everybody plodded up and made without stopping. Regrouping at the top and onto at the next feed stop, Dan decided it would be a good idea to do Charing.

  The push home was a welcome flat ride with everyone’s Garmin’s clicking over the 100 mile marker.

  The welcome committee of QRCC Ladies and Gents meet us and cheered us over the line.

  A great route, with great signposts, well organised and great riders.

  Riders

  Richard Tester

David Mantle (words)

Joe Nuttel

Tim Williams

Jordan Williams

Tony Hayre

Dan Motterham

Inaugural USA Member Scott Loyet!

QRCC Q+A

Name and Hometown? Scott Loyet Moraga, California  USA

How Long have you been cycling and with Quick Release Cycling Club? I started riding 4 years ago with the intent of getting into triathlons, but injuries slowed my running and now I favor cycling over the other two sports.  

My first encounter with QRCC was in France during June of last year when I met team members while we were all climbing up Col du Glandon.  I would like to think my membership was cemented when we met (without planning) at the top of Ventoux a few days later.   I believe the cycling gods put us at the top of the mountain at the same time, in this every so small window, because I was meant for the QRCC.  That day concluded with my third climb up Ventoux, all three routes.  I am certain that I had inspiration from my new QRCC friends.  

In the course of a normal week, How often do you Cycle? Right now I am balancing cycling with swimming as well as running so I am only riding 2 or so days a week.  I like doing early morning rides before work during the week (5:30am departure) and weekend rides with friends.

What Bike(s) do you own? Cervelo R3

What are your Plans/Aims in 2016? I am dialing it back a bit this year after a busy 2015.  I do not race but enjoy organized rides.  The big one I will be riding this summer is called 'The Death Ride.'  I have ridden it twice and each time said I would not do it again.  I am riding it again this year only to introduce this pain and suffering to a group of my friends who have not ridden it before. 129 Miles of riding and 15000 feet of climbing.  https://deathride.com/

Favourite thing about Cycling? I love the enjoy the the feeling of being outdoors while pushing my body to the limit.  Equally, enjoy the camaraderie of cycling.  Cycling has become my 'social time' and am happy that many of my best friends are cyclists.  

Why ride for QRCC? I love to break new ground and being the initial representative in the USA is an incredible honor.

Favourite Climb/Road you have ridden? I think my favorite ride was Col du Glandon.  It was my first day riding in France and I was awestruck by the beauty.  It also helped that I met some new mates from QRCC on that climb and we had a chance to do a fun descent (with one fellow yelping like a madman...which was fantastic).

Favourite Pro Cyclist? Lance Armstrong (joking!!).  

Name

 Rob Hall

 Hometown?

 Faversham

 How Long have you been cycling and with Quick Release Cycling Club?

 Cycling for about 5 years and 2 with QRCC. First ride was a late September Sunday evening with Luke and Jeremy…I was kitted for the some days, they were kitted for Autumn evening rides…

 In the course of a normal week, How often do you Cycle?

 Twice at best, mainly due to working away.

 What Bike(s) do you own?

 FOCUS – full carbon, first baby…

 What are your Plans/Aims in 2016?

 Roubaix club ride, a few triathlons….get some full club kit, feels like I’m the only one with full club kit.

 Favourite thing about Cycling?

 The fact we live in a great county for cycling and we can in the country very quick and enjoy the surroundings.

 Why ride for QRCC?

 Honest, friendly and it doesn’t matter if I’ve been away for a month if I turn up (bar one or two) everyone else says Hi and How are you etc.

 Favourite Climb/Road you have ridden?

 Dunkirk to Roubaix, the roads were great, cars stopped….On the return leg we went some cobbles…that was great, different, slightly painful. but nevertheless a good ride up.

 Favourite Pro Cyclist?

 Geraint Thomas

 Favourite Pro Race?

 There is only one! The one that really matters. Le Tour.

Name

 Steve Beckwith

 Hometown?

 Sittingbourne

 How Long have you been cycling and with Quick Release Cycling Club?

 April 2014

 In the course of a normal week, How often do you Cycle?

 Twice a week with QRCC, more when starting out to train for first 100 mile event. Recently I have taken a short break due to work or family commitments. Looking to get back in the saddle very soon.

 What Bike(s) do you own?

 Claus Butler Torino

Carerra

Voodoo Marasa (Hybrid)

 What are your Plans/Aims in 2016?

 Enjoy my cycling and achieve PR's and attend more sportives

 Favourite thing about Cycling?

 Fresh air, scenery, exercise and making new friends.

 Why ride for QRCC?

 Found local club and well organised. Good support when struggling on longer routes.

 Favourite Climb/Road you have ridden?

 Ride London in 2014 - very emotional.

 Favourite Pro Cyclist?

 Bradley Wiggins

 Favourite Pro Race?

 Tour de France

The Southborough & District Wheelers New Year Day 10 mile TT is an annual event, the first of the year to blow away the cobwebs and set a marker for the rest of the season.

A change in year was met with a change in weather, as the curtains were drawn back to frost and a predicted temperature of 6 degrees at race time. It seems I shaved my legs for nothing as the leg warmers were going to have to be deployed! Arriving at the Bethersden Village Hall (Some may remember it from the KCA Reliability Trial earlier in 2015), it was already busy with a few big guns prepping for their seeded starts later on. All signed on, QRCC’s sole representative for the day grabbed a quick cuppa and got to setting up with a purpose, making it look like I knew what I was doing. A little bit of swearing and tearing later, I was ready to warm up with two things on my mind: “f*** it’s cold!”, and please don’t puncture. The last time I used tubs were for a hill climb for all of two and a half minutes and the start line was a ten minute ride from HQ. Thankfully, they survived and start time came after a little warm up, which only served to stave off frostbite. At 11:27, I was pushed out to a quick sprint up to 39kmph straight into an incline, my eyes were streaming from my decision not to wear glasses. Already, I thought this was too much and I could have happily been nursing a hangover from the comfort of my own bed. I soldiered on, some would say bravely, however on to the A28 and a slight off-headwind. This was good news as, although the longer “out” leg, once I done and round that roundabout, I’d have a tailwind to carry me home. The course was a little lumpy, with my speed dropping to 32kmph, fighting both the wind and some cold, heavy legs. By mile 5, things were getting blurry, so I just concentrated on what my legs were doing, hoping not to hit any potholes. I’d caught two of the Vets that had started before me, which gave me a little boost... I won’t be last! Taking the roundabout without trouble, I soon caught number 83 on the uphill drag on the return leg and could see (through the tears) the blinking light of the rider who started before me. With this impetus, I powered through to catch him at about 8 miles; the first senior I caught, however the only riding a fixie today. This feeling of superiority as number 90, aka. 2nd place finisher, sailed passed me, almost gracefully as I was starting to blow out of my exhaust. He disappeared and timed his effort perfectly as I was overtaken by a Land Rover and subsequently held up as it refused to overtake a cyclist waiting to turn right. A bit of smart negotiation with the gutter and I was away again, shaking my head and having lost all that momentum that had been building up on the return leg. I couldn’t sprint for the finish and rolled over at 25:03, which I’m not too disappointed with, given the time of year and set up. HQ served up a lovely cup of coffee and various sweet cakey, biscuit treats… I still couldn’t see at this point so I grabbed whatever and scoffed it down. My result confirmed, 19th in the scratch, also finishing as 4th in the L3S category, narrowly missing out on some pear cider, I packed up and set off pretty pleased that I kicked off 2016 flying the flag (lol) at another popular local event.

Festive 500: Report by Dan Motterham

24th December - 31st December 2015

Now lets not be disillusioned - The challenge this year was made a lot more enjoyable due to the strangely warm December weather proving to be a great motivation at 7am. but lets get this straight, 500km in a week isn’t a hard task when you have 7 days available to you to get out and ride. The hard task is balancing your time between the last of the christmas shopping on christmas eve (most of us blokes still do that), the important annual family gatherings on almost every day throughout the week and the recovery period required in the immediate 24 hours after each day spent drinking copious amounts of alcohol and eating untold numbers of chocolate coins and quality streets. And for some of us having to actually work in the interim. But despite all of these commitments we find a way to squeeze in the miles required to earn that Rapha roundel we so desire.

24th December - This was supposed to be a half day at work for me but am i going to miss out on a club ride? am i ‘ek! i booked it off and met the guys at the JW at 8am sharp for a trip to headcorn. As soon as we hit the flats on the other side of the downs we were drilling into a block headwind in search of those bacon sandwiches. NOT TO BE - cafe not open for another hour. Onto pluckley village where there must be a cafe, NOT TO BE - theres nothing in pluckiey. Wigmore rep Luke anderson claims there is one in Charing. NOT TO BE - its a butchers. lets go to Rodmersham green. Winner! cafe stop is awesome, shame its so close to home. turns out work need me and i receive a call about a major c@ck up so i miss out on half the laughs inside before we head out into the anticipated rain and split up before heading home Distance covered - 97.4km

26th December - Feeling bloated from the day before and desperate to start the recovery process i left the temporary residence in sheerness and met Luke and Gary in Iwade before heading back to the island, when i realised i had left my car blocking the parents drive, better go back. Arrive out the front to the mother telling me i have forgotten my toothbrush - MUM, MY FRIENDS ARE HERE - GOD YOURE SO EMBARRASSING - ‘its ok i have spares’. onto Leysdown. 

What a surprise, the cafes are closed, better head back with empty stomach’s, being blown from pillar to post we had to take turns absorbing the wind, giving us opportune time to practice our echelon riding which was working very well, Luke wasn’t blown into any nearby fields, this meant we made it to McDonalds for a terrible coffee and an acceptable breakfast wrap - even if Luke did give the cashier an ear bashing for ripping him off for trying to charge £2 for a single hash brown. Distance covered 74.7km Total Distance covered now 172.1km

27th December - A club run to Reculver was on the cards knowing that the cafe at the mid point would likely be closed. Nonetheless we set off with two visitors among us, Matt and Victoria from PMR Toachim House had joined us after a brief conversation with them the day before on our return from Maccas.

The wind was once more ever present and we were working really well as a group to make the efforts bearable, but this was with a slight tailwind, when we knew for sure the cafe was closed and we had to turn around to head back to Tankerton the effort requirement had somewhat increased. the sweat was soon dripping from all as we arrived at the Seaview cafe (known fondly as the happy cafe), we all ordered our fuel for the return ride, all knowing that the effort would be draining once more. Jordan did get a little carried away and ordered enough food for everyone, but it wasn’t for everyone, it was just for him. Mate you will go pop! and he did. too much fuel! 

Distance Covered 109.8km Total Distance covered now 281.9km

28th December - work, BOOO why do i have to work. seeing as I’m in the warehouse this week it doesn’t matter if i sweat a little. Luke met me at costa for a warm up brew but the theme of the week was continued and it was closed so we were soon drinking cheap, nasty coffee from the nearby service station - not advised. After turning into Newington and removing ourselves from the busy A road we climbed to the top of the fields and were treated by a sunrise that many would not have had the pleasure of viewing at 7am. The pastel colours and silhouette of the distant trees without their summer leaves resembled the familiar painting of the south african plains at sunset. We couldn’t resist the compulsory photo to accompany the Strava data. A relaxed pace toward Sheppey with talk of what we should achieve in the coming year ensued before parting in Queenborough for me to work and for Luke to rack up some further miles. The ride home after work was a far sweatier and heart pounding affair, trying to beat the darkness of course. getting onto the A2 and drilling the big gear was welcomed before spinning the last mile or 2 to clear the built up of lactic in the legs. Distance covered 38.9km Total Distance covered now 319.8km

29th December - Work AGAIN. oh well, lets get this over with. pretty boring commuting on your own, yesterday i was spoilt by company and coffee. I’ll listen to my music on the way and let the miles tick by while i sing along to the sounds of the random playlist on my iPod. The ride home was once again fast and furious. Distance covered 38.9km Total Distance covered now 358.7km

31st December - i have left myself somewhat of a task, of which i knew when arriving home from work two days earlier. i just hoped the weather would be kind to allow me to enjoyably cram in more miles than i have done on a Sunday for quite a few months. Once again we were heading to Headcorn Aerodrome, the size of the group was quite impressive, with Wigmore CC, Medway Velo CC and Aberdeen Wheelers members joining forces with the 9 QRCC members we were in a great position to share the duties on the front. 

The later start than that of christmas eve, meant the cafe was indeed open on arrival and Gary quickly demolished a huge bakewell tart while others tucked into sandwiches and coffees, some even opting for two coffees. the return journey saw the first puncture for Tony (i haven’t had a puncture in 6 years) Hayre. This was strange after i had said just minutes before that we had done the same ride the year before and Jordan had a puncture but it was maybe 12 degrees colder - today is just a delight. Puncture - MY FAULT. Once repaired we soon all got a little competitive and Ulcombe Hill gave as ideal opportunity to attack one another. The visitors went on the early break but the mountain goats soon reeled them in and escaped on the last gradients. Regrouping at the top we moved onto the next challenge of Hollingbourne - oops i still have 50 miles to go i better take it easy up here, I’m out of the race - Luke rapping for QRCC led the charge and was soon being chased by another Luke - the Wigmore one - WE WON! :) 

The dash back to Bredgar was soon over and the Rain moved in to try and dampen spirits - yeah right, we were having way to much fun. lets do some laps of the island. So with Luke and Jayson Weale leading the way we were soon a further 10 miles in, OK i changed my mind, one is enough - oh look a cake shop can we stop again. DOUBLE CAFE STOP - CHECK! Heading back towards Sittingbourne chat turned to upcoming adventures once more and some epic miles we plan to cover in 2016 - “Sh1t, i need a gel - mate can i borrow a gel?” (shame Jordan wasn’t around, he normally has a box in his pocket). after parting ways and ticking off the final miles the Ettix gel kicked in and i was soon hitting 30mph down the A2 before reaching home and hitting the stop button on the Garmin. RIDE UPLOADED the screen said, quick open the Strava App, have i done it. Distance covered 149km Total Distance covered now IVE DONE IT - 509km BOSH.

Thanks to everyone for such an enjoyable week, cycling has given me the best times in 2015 and some of the best memories i have EVER.

I AWAIT MY ROUNDEL

My full name is Tony Ranjit Singh Hayre (but for the record, you guys just call me Tony).  Despite being mistaken for Turkish, Italian & Cuban over the years I am actually half Indian but I am born & bread in Milton, a Sittingbourne lad and proud of it.

How Long have you been cycling and with Quick Release Cycling Club?

I been cycling since the age of three and made regular daily trips for the front door to the end of the drive away. I was never a big cyclist by passed my CTB first time with only one minor (I forgot the 5th rule) but it kept my family happy and help me get a paper round which saw me cycling in all weathers.

I did own a racer when younger but hated it as my mates had BMX’s or mountain bike.   I only considered road cycling during the Olympics in 2012 when I brought one on offer from Halfords.  Surprisingly I quite enjoyed it and that’s where it began.

The short rides with my friends were not enough for me and realised I could do more when I completed the London to Canterbury charity ride (children trust) with no hassle in the summer of 2012.

I started looking for clubs and that’s when I stumbled across the QRCC website. I made contact with Luke via phone and got invited to join a Sunday ride to Leysdown bakery. I must admit I was expecting Luke to be much older and when I first saw the fresh well moisturised (non-hairy) face I thought this guy has only just had his stabilisers removed.  

However as I got to know Luke his passion for cycling showed and I thought ‘this guy really knows his stuff’

After a few weeks I confirmed my membership with the club and have been hassled by Gary every year to rejoin

I joined QRCC early 2013 (I Think) when club numbers were on the increase. Although members have come and gone, the club has a great bunch of young lads and ageing men. Proud to be a member of the club.

In the course of a normal week, How often do you Cycle?

I would like to cycle everywhere and everyday.  But work and family would not allow.   Therefore twice a week is the norm.

What Bike(s) do you own?

I have my beloved Whistle Crow. No one else has one (or wants one) but it does me and love her so much and can’t bring myself to upgrade.

Terri (my wife) has gave me the green light to upgrade.  Therefore I am on the look out for a younger blond that’s not a vegetarian

I also owned B-twin (my winter bike).  Second hand, don’t love as much and will only be washed when I can be bothered.

What are your Plans/Aims in 2016?

Ride, ride, ride.  Got the lake district booked in the summer with some of the lads.  Main aim is to improve my annual mileage but more importantly enjoy. Resist the temptation to save my legs.

Favourite thing about Cycling?

Being outside and getting to experience the countryside without being trapped in the car. Also found you can get to most places just as quick as driving.  

Why ride for QRCC?

Em let me see, They let me join (and stun me for £25) I got to purchase a skin tight lyrca outfit (and wear it) (also stun me for ££££) Resulted in Terri telling me to get a better bike (hello Mr Whistle Crow – more ££££) The club Committee were nice, friendly people who I quickly nicknamed after Star Wars Characters after it came to light that Luke had spent his entire childhood watching Button Moon and Thunderbirds and never seen a Star Wars movie Luke (Skywalker – Andy’s apprentice) Dave (Darth Vader – Part man part machine) Andy (Obi One – the master) Gary (Yoda – round head with pointy ears (okay not true about the ears)) Keith (C3PO – Shiny Bike (not quite gold) and unlimited database of knowledge in regards to cycling) Jake (Chew Bacca) former committee member I have made new friends xxx Members allow me to nickname them and pretend they don’t mind Members laugh at my jokes (so not to offend me) I get to sit next to Dave at the AGM, and distract him I get to annoy Dave on every climb ride I get to cycle routes I would never plan or do if not member I now eat more cake than ever before I feel like a local in the Jenny Wren We get to have two xmas parties (with the second one being free) They have their own language Downhill means uphill Flat means uphill Uphill means Mountain 50 means 60 1pm means 3pm Not far now means 15 miles Nearly there means 15 miles Just round the corner means 15 miles That’s the hardest part done = Mountain coming up A few minutes rest break means 1 minute then crack on Night out means early evening gathering Going to Life means everyone home by 10pm A few beers means shandy and cokes

I really love the club but on a more serious note,  the main reason I ride for the QRCC is because I make the club kit look good.

Favourite Climb/Road you have ridden?

Easy.  Love climbing Col de La Sarenne.  Thanks to the club for allowing me to experience it. You can see how much I enjoyed the climb from my strava statistics below:

Rank Name Date Speed HR Power VAM Time 1. Tony Hayre QRCC 16 Jun 2015 6.0mi/h 152bpm 150W 679.7 1:19:52 2. Luke Coleman QRCC 15 Jun 2014 5.1mi/h 159bpm 182W 570.8   1:35:07

Oh look (I’m first)  Only just noticed.  

Favourite Descent - la nesque gorge (100%) loved the views

My favourite solo ride however was around the ardeche gorge.

Favourite Pro Cyclist? Andy Weale – not bad for an islander