Horwich Ride Social says Aloha to Ironman!

The weather might have been variable but we brought a warm atmosphere to the Bolton Ironman Triathlon. Decked out with lei and grass skirts we took on the mammoth task of setting up and manning the Feed Station for runners in Queens Park. Our volunteers were regular members of Horwich Ride Social (HRS) joined by partners, children, friends, family members and anyone we could rope in! It was lovely to have everyone volunteering together.

Fortunately our costumes didn’t hamper gazebo erecting, making up Gatorade, filling  countless cups of water, Pepsi, Redbull, Gatorade, jelly babies and weirdly, crushed tortilla chips. There was a party atmosphere built as  music played and we waited expectantly for the first competitor. 

Tom Rigby of Chorley came through first and was the eventual winner of the Men’s Race. It was his sixth thriathlon and he finished with a time of 9:38. He said “It’s just a dream come true really, I managed to get to the marathon in first place and hold onto it.”. 

Soon there were throngs of runners coming through our station. Holding cups for them was a surprisingly technical exercise and trying to stay away from the sticky spray from grabbed cups involved nifty foot work. Here’s Lesley showing great double Pepsi action. 

We became very skilled at speed litter picking, filling cups and shouting what we were offering. It  was wonderful to be able to support the Triathletes, cheer on the ones doing well and encourage those who were flagging a bit. 

The first woman Erica Booth (also from Chorley) went on to win in a time of 11:07.  She movingly dedicated her win to her mother whose died recently, after she had been diagnosed with cancer three months ago.  All the  entrants were truly inspiring, exhibiting determination, athletic prowess and had obviously put so much effort training into achieve the Ironman standard.

The action carried on till late in the day, with the last competitors coming through in the twilight. HRS would like to thank all those who gave their time and effort. You all looked wonderful in your outfits. The hugest thanks however have to go to our wonderful organisers Lesley and Michelle, I’m sure you both felt like you done more than a triathlon by the time you got home to bed!              

Alison Boast, HRS Member

Cycle Commute

I have always loved cycling and for the past 20 years or so have sometimes travelled to work by bike. This has ranged from around 5 miles to 9 miles away, depending on where I have worked.

I find it a great de-stressor both on the way there and on the way back. The only problem is getting there and feeling a bit warm and damp! During lock down I bought an e-bike and it was a game changer for commuting. There is still the workout and the chance to enjoy the fresh air but as there is the opportunity to have a bit of help up the hills, there is no longer the fear of feeling sticky on arrival.

It still requires some forethought and preparation; I always have a spare outfit waiting at work to change into to save screwing up clothes in a pannier.

I work in a school and really feel this has set a positive example to pupils, (and occasionally other staff) many of whom now come to school on their bikes or scooters.

At the moment my journey includes a ride through Haigh Hall which is really soothing and cuts out a lot of traffic.

The return journey, after a long day, can sometimes seem like a chore but it always revives and lifts the spirits, but best of all, there are no traffic queues to wait in.

There has been the odd disaster – punctures, getting feet stuck in cleats and falling off – but nothing too dramatic. Also, I don’t tend to commute during the Winter as I would be in darkness both ways, which doesn’t particularly appeal.

If it’s something you have been considering, then give it a go, its definitely worth it!