This weekend saw the first Cycling Ulster Development Day in Garvagh, welcoming a range of age groups.
The day began with the U12s and U14s heading into the Garvagh Forest trails for off-road training. We started together on the skills loop before splitting into two groups: the younger riders focused on skill development in the trails, while the U14s tackled most of the red loop (a detour due to fallen trees), followed by start practice and other technical drills.
Looking ahead, we aim to expand this group and offer more opportunities. However, this will depend on having more coaches join us to support longer and more frequent sessions for this age group.
In the second session, the older riders headed out on an 80km road loop, enjoying fantastic scenery and surprisingly good weather. It was a wonderful opportunity for everyone to come together, share some miles, and step away from the pressures of racing and rigid training schedules.
At this time of year, it’s important for us to come together as a region, even though everyone is at different points in their training.
We plan to continue hosting these sessions throughout winter and into 2025 to keep building towards a strong 2025 season.
We would like to thank everyone who came out to help coach and volunteer, without this support it wouldn’t be possible to put on these sort of days and support our super talented riders coming through.