Community bike rides helping people return to joy of cycling

Tuam event every Saturday

BIKE WEEK, the annual celebration of the many benefits of cycling, is well underway across the county. To mark the occasion, last Saturday morning The Tuam Herald met up with some of those who take part in the Community Bike Rides group in Tuam.

Led by John Hansberry, The Cycling Ireland initiative sees riders of all abilities take part in the weekly event, which focuses on fun and socialising instead of racing and timing.

“Nearly everyone has learnt to cycle at some stage, but it might be something they haven’t done in years,” John explained, prior to setting off on their latest trek.

“These sessions are about encouraging people to get back on their bike, get used to travelling as part of a group. People are often intimidated by cycling clubs, feeling they would be travelling too fast to get involved. But our pace is decided by whoever is slowest, so it can be enjoyed by everyone.”

The weekly cycles begin at 11am every Saturday morning from the Tuam Cancer Care Centre on the Dunmore Road. Each participant also benefits from one day insurance, provided by Cycling Ireland through the Cyql app.

Members largely range in age from 50 to 80, male and female, and have mixed levels of cycling experience. The oldest cyclist taking part on this occasion was 79-year-old David Burke.

“I’m living on my own and I’m retired. Without the cycling as a social outlet, I don’t know what I would do,” commented David, a Limerick native who now calls Tuam home.

“Groups like this are a great pastime. It gets you out for some fresh air and exercise. Everybody rides at the same pace, all here to have a good chat and a few laughs. That is what this group is all about. Socialising and having fun.”

John maps out a route each week which sees them darting through the back roads of North Galway, taking in the stunning scenery. Changes are made depending on the weather conditions, making sure they travel against the breeze when departing to make for an easier route back to Tuam.

After a busy week at work, Stephen Lyons enjoys the opportunity to switch off for a few hours and get some exercise.

“This group is great for your mental health. Getting some fresh air, seeing a bit of the countryside and having conversations with like-minded people. They are the reasons I attend these cycles,” noted Stephen.

The distance is largely set to around 50km. It contains a stop for coffee and a chat too, once again highlighting how this group caters to the more fun side of cycling.

In the spirit of Bike Week, John is hopeful more people will consider dusting off their old helmets, take the bike out of the shed and give cycling another go.

“The 50km might sound intimidating, but if someone is feeling the pressure, we mightn’t necessarily always go that far. We tweak the distance from week to week to make sure it is enjoyable for everyone involved, so don’t be afraid to give it a go,” added John.

“We tend to keep away from the main roads wherever possible, so the routes are safe and enjoyable for leisurely cycling. Any knowledge from the more experienced cyclists will be passed on to help others progress, as everyone involved with this group is very approachable.”

The Tuam Community Bike Ride continues every Saturday morning at 11am. To book your place visit the Cyql app or email jhansberry13@gmail.com for more information.