Top cyclist wants his very special bike back
In this case the elements are of a society that is often cruel and unforgiving, and that a job in post-war Rome is looked on as the luckiest of good luck charms.
Fast forward to 21st century Ireland. I, a life-long cyclist, both competitive on the Irish national squad and more recently, as a commuter, believe strongly in the merits of the bicycle as a commuting and health solution.
I have been lucky enough to be involved in the business of cycling for many years, having first attended the Tour de France in 1986, the year of Greg Lemond’s inaugural victory and the year before Ireland’s one and only triumph with Stephen Roche.
It is, however, as a commuting cyclist that I am vexed. Recently I locked my very fine hybrid bicycle (a Trek Soho) to a lamp-post in Baggot Street, Dublin and when I emerged from the pub, my pride and joy was gone. All that was left behind was a fine lock with a precision cut right through it.
The gardaí arrived in good time and listened to my complaint, but my impression was they see this thing far too often and the sheer numbers of similar crimes do not go in their favour.
But this bike could be easily identified because it is almost a one-off in Ireland, in terms of the model and in particular the rear carrier (a Trek carbon fibre model which would cost more than €400).
I am not saying my case is unique. Far from it. Sadly, it is another statistic in a long line of petty thievery. However, I am very attached to this special machine, and if any of your readers perchance may see this bike on the street, I would appreciate them jumping on it.
Darach McQuaid
Newgrange Cottage
7 Rathmore Villas
Terenure
Dublin 6W
