Wide range of Routes.
February 2024
Red/Amber Long - 11-Feb-2024
Amber Short - 04-Feb-2024
Red/Amber Long - 11-Feb-2024
The WCCC Sunday Spin
DistanceΒ
Spins are shortest in November, after the end of the cycling season. The shorter spins give new members a gentle introduction to group riding. November spins typically average 70-80 km, often following a figure of 8 loop so that beginners can call it a day after 40 km or so. Over the winter and spring, distances will gradually increase, utlimately peaking at around 130 km by early summer.
Route
Unlike many clubs which follow a few regular routes, the WCCC likes to avail of the varied West Cork landscape. The routes differ from week to week.
Rendez-vous
Usually alternating between Dunmanway Square and Drimoleague Centra. On rare occasions, other meeting points may be used to allow more distant locations to be reached.
Start time
During the summer, rides typically start at 0830, so you'll be back for the dinner. As the mornings get darker, start times change accordingly. Note that the posted start time is the roll-out time. It's not the 'arrive and start putting on your shoes and pumping your tyres' time.
Coffee stop
There is usually a brief coffee stop on the Sunday spin, typically at a service station. Most riders prefer not to hang around for too long as the legs can get stiff, and a chill can set in. On occasion, we'll treat ourselves to a longer stop, maybe at a cafe with nice cake.Β
Variations
From time to time, the WCCC supports neighbouring cycling clubs by using their fund raiser sportives as the main weekend spin. Not only is this for a good cause, it allows WCCC riders to show off the kit.
Groups
Group sizes do not exceed 10-12 riders. This makes it safer for everyone, including other road users. It also allows for riders of differing abilities to stay together. The WCCC objective is to have 2-3 different groups on each Sunday spin: novice, intermediate and advanced, with respective average speeds shown in the traffic light chart below. Depending on how many riders show up each Sunday, the captains will arrange the groups accordingly.
A note on group riding
Group riding can only be undertaken safely by applying certain rules. SeeΒ hereΒ for details.
Thinking of coming out with us
New members are always welcome. Check out ourΒ membership page.
And a note on the weather
West Cork wouldn't be so green and wild without rain. A LOT of rain. But, unless it's torrential, the Sunday spin goes ahead. If persistent rain is forecast, the spin may be cancelled. WCCC HQ will usually make a call on Saturday evening or early Sunday morning, via Facebook. Showers are no deterrent to the WCCC. But put on the mudguards if it's going to be wet, or you'll get the cold shoulder. So you'll be wet AND cold. On frosty/icy mornings, you should also check our Facebook page before heading out to the meeting point, as spins may be delayed for several hours, or possibly even cancelled. We are diehard cyclists, but not lunatics.