Halesowen Athletic & Cycling Club

Sean Lacey rides with a Midlands club steeped in cycling history.

The sun is shining and there is a large crowd waiting to greet us as we arrive at Manor Abbey, the complex that is home to Halesowen A&CC.

This is a change from the usual Sunday meetings, which are split over venues and times. The youth track sessions are usually later in the morning, but they have turned out early to represent all sections of the club, along with the usual club run groups. Hugh Porter, the club patron, has made the trip over to welcome us and watch the young members on the track. The club has a large youth section, which has grown steadily over the years due it being a safe facility for them to ride on before progressing to the road, or developing their track racing skills – some even progressing to Olympic glory. The club is proud that so many of the youngsters who join remain members in adulthood, in turn bringing their own children into the fold. Our group proves the point, with Billy Laight, 12, here with his father among a mix of younger and older riders.

Leading our group today are Stephen Dymock and Ronan Finch, the regular ‘Silver’ group leaders. Stephen tells us: “I joined a good few years ago, starting with track racing, but fancied a bit of road riding. After joining the club runs I found I enjoyed planning and leading the rides so much I became a regular group lead”. He talks about the camaraderie in the club, something a lot of the riders mention as we chat while enjoying the spring sunshine.