Integrity Cycling Club attracting members from across east Antrim

Integrity Cycling Club was established by Gavin Martin in May 2017 and was initially set up and based in Ballyclare.

Following a period of growth, the club now extends further afield, taking in members from Carrick and across the greater Belfast area.

Speaking to the Times, club member Annmarie McNamara said: “The club ethos is a group of friends who want to cycle together with a no drop policy, no one left behind policy.

“It is also a club for all (religions, race, gender). Everyone is welcome, meaning we are not restricted to a specific geographical area.

“The club tries to cater for all member needs and levels while the need is there for the members attending.”

There are currently 72 members in the south Antrim club, aged between 16 and 70.

They cycle in seven sections: Cruiser group (13-15), Medio group (15-17 ), Veloce group (17-20), Veloce plus (21 plus ), Beginners’ Ladies Only group, Bun Run social group and the Mountain Bike group.

The club, which does not have a committee, has been set up as a leisure group and currently it does not field cyclists in competitions.

However, the club does participate in charity fundraising events.

Annmarie explained: “As this is a leisure club, we don’t enter competitions. Although in saying this, we support local sportives held for charities such as Roddensvale 100 for Roddensvale School, Integrity 100 (cancer charity connected to a late club member) and various charity fundraising events that may have a connection with members.