überdog magazine by überdog magazine

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meet ‘the dog’

It’s a

dog’s life my life just Since the inaugural issue of überdog magazine hit the shelves in March attention hasn’t been the same. I mean I always was a good looking mütt, attracting wherever I go... where ever I went, but now that I’m the face of Team Woof, I’m hounded

e’ve been truly bowled

And here you are coming back for

over by the tremendous welcome you guys gave the magazine.

seconds - we told you you’d be hooked! The only magazine to report on the

Get comfortable before you dig your nose into the magazine as I promise, you’ll be glued for hours. Back by popular

extreme sports scene in the north of

demand is our mtb tutorial by Dave

Thousands of you scraped together the

Ireland, überdog is essential reading for

Youngs; kayaking insights from Iain

£3 needed to buy the first issue (sure to

adrenaline junkies and I for one am proud

Walker and surf tips from Iain Gilmore. I’d

be a collectors item) and hundreds of you

to be part of the team that brings it to you.

also like to welcome a couple of new

converted überdoggers took time out of your busy action-packed schedules to drop us an email and tell us how much you loved the mag. At one point I didn’t know if my head would fit through the dog flap!

At one point I didn’t know if my head would fit through the dog flap! This past few weeks I’ve been pounding

additions to Team Woof’s winning team - Luke Humphreys who’s come on board as our newbie skate expert and waveski champ Marty McCann who has penned a beginners guide to the sport.

Fame brings with it many privileges and

pavements, ripping up mountains and

I’ve been mixing in elite sporting circles,

tackling waves to bring you the best

chatting with Big Wave surfer Al Mennie;

events, interviews, gear and gadgets

European downhill champion Meave

around. I’ve been modelling sunglasses,

Baxter; one quarter of Dirty Sanchez

testing out trainers and taking trips to

‘Pancho’ and the King of Manny Mania

some of the most beautiful and extreme

Paddy Maguire. Talk about inspiring…

places in the county - all in the name of

As the summer approaches I’m looking

überdog. It’s a dog’s life, but someone’s

forward to heading out with Team Woof to

got to do it!

attend bike, surf, canoe, 4x4 and any other extreme events we can squeeze into

And the winners are… Congratulations to the winners of our issue one competitions:

the diary. If you see us, make sure you say hello. Just remember, Get Out - STAY OUT!

WIN A DAYS PAINTBALLING AT TODDSLEAP.COM Colin Bankhead, Greenisland WIN A COPY OF ‘BREAK THE CYCLE’ DVD Catherine Anderson, Belfast Ryan Hayes, Lisburn WIN A TRIP TO SCOTLAND WITH STENA LINE Craig Bell, Moira, Co Armagh

you can follow our paw prints at: www.facebook.com/uberdogmag

001-002 Intro and Tags Pages.qxp

The Accounts Department at überdog are extremely strict

What colour of helmet sir? VERY VERY green please!

Use the force Luke - and maybe the brakes as well...

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NAME:

Rob Doherty

tara Craig

DOES:

Big Dog at überdog

Editor & Wordsmith

BLURB: Rob has been working with publications in Northern Ireland for over 21 years and was the original creator of überdog back in 1996. Steering the magazine along in a style akin to a stagecoach going down the side of a mountain may look easy, but Rob has perfected this ‘controlled chaos technique’ over many, many years.

BLURB: An award winning magazine editor, überdog is Tara’s first venture into the world of extreme sports and she’s having a blast! When she’s not at the computer you’ll usually find her in the great outdoors trying to tire out her three kids - anything for a good nights sleep!

Start ‘em young, that’s what I say...

NAME:

Iain Walker

marty McCann

DOES:

Extreme Kayak waxer

Waveski expert

BLURB: Deadly good freestyle kayaker, Iain’s Uncle thinks he might be part fish. “My wife says I can drink like a frickin' fish anyway so he might be right.” Not adverse to a bit of climbing Iain recalls: “One time I walked up that big hill in France on my own - Mont Blanc, but that was back in the 20th Century when you could still get two pints and some Taytos for a fiver with change.”

BLURB: World European Waves competitor and current Irish Waveski champ, Marty McCann is also a British Canoe Union level 5 coach surf and a Beach Lifeguard trainer and assessor . Marty lives in south Donegal where he offers paddlesport coaching through www.oceanaddicts.com. As if that isn’t enough Marty also enjoys a spot of kayaking, mountain biking and general mincing!

How we laughed when Dwayne misheard the phrase “ SIT on top ”

NAME:

Dave Youngs

Iain Gilmore

DOES:

MTB Jedi Master

Surf Guru

BLURB: Dave will be taking you from mtb novice to nutter over the next few issues. Dave started out on his trusty Grifter 22 years ago, complete with lollipop stick attached to the back wheel for extra speed and noise! He developed his love of mountain biking after buying one off a bent copper and has mastered the art to become Ireland's most qualified guide and coach.

BLURB: Jersey born, Iain is a champion surfer living in Fanad, County Donegal. With 28 years surf experience and a string of awards to his credit, we thought he was the perfect man for the job of ‘surf correspondent’. When he’s not down on the beach, Iain can be found at his Adventure One Surf School on Ballyheirnan Bay, Fanad.

Getting extremely ‘board’ the Gilmore way...

NAME:

Andrew Rankin

Luke Humphreys

DOES:

Scuba & underwater photos

A fish celebrity is ‘papped’ leaving an undersea club

BLURB: A PADI dive master, Andrew is also an award winning underwater photographer who has spent a lot of time diving the local waters around Northern Ireland and further afield capturing the beauty of life below the waves. “I take my camera with me on every dive, the variety of scenery never fails to amaze me.”

Skate trickster

V.T.O.L. Vertival Take Off Luke!

BLURB: 14 year old Luke has risen to local fame thanks to his YouTube site which he uses to post skate footage taken in bizzare locations across Northern Ireland. Luke contacted the magazine offering to do a series of skate tutorials for beginners and we were so impressed with his style and skill that we just had to say yes!

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oxfamireland.org/trailtrekker Text TREK to 51500 or Tel: (028) 9089 5972 *

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the

issue two June / july 2010ad

s t n e t n o c

Pixie Power Proving that you don’t need to be big to get noticed, local downhill mountain bike racer Meave Baxter ripped up the track in Slovenia last year to become the reigning Ladies Masters European Champion and with a new custom built bike for 2010 she looks set for further podium glory…

Puppies Privates

Mutt Snutts, überdog’s roving reporter sniffs out the latest word on the street

The Dog’s diary

Want to know where Team Woof will be over the next couple of months? Check out our diary pages for June & July

Tollymore’s Transformation überdog checks out the cool curves of the newly renovated Tollymore National Outdoor Centre

skate skate

Manny Madn ess Mania the UK Red Bull Manny Paddy Maguire was crowned wowing the Belfast street skater Britain’s finest skaters. stiff competition from champ when he beat off the final round alone… tricks, he pulled 17 in judges with his technical

f you happen to be passing Custom House Square or Writers Square in Belfast on a nice day,

chances are you’ll spot Paddy who Maguire, Belfast’s street skate-star and recently scooped £2,000 when he the his technical trickery proved to be best in Britain. and He’ll be the one in the skate t-shirt the board riding the ledges, jumping steps or practicing his manuals (two

competitiveness between us. We each so we wanted to get better than the other, fun at were learning new tricks but having the same time, the way kids do.” A self-taught skater, Paddy sites Dixon professional skate borders Antwuan and Tom Perry as his inspiration. “For these guys it’s all about image. I love really watching Antwuan skate, he has this

wheels only tricks). is Of course he wont’ be alone, Paddy taking just one of a growing number of kids to the streets to practice their with skateboarding skills, partly because, skate the exception of Unit 13, the indoor park, there’s no where else to go, and partly because it’s fun and the camaraderie is unbeatable. Now 18 years old, Paddy started skating before eight years ago. “It was the summer other I started secondary school. All my walking mates had started doing it - I’d be down down the road and they’d be skating and I’d the road thirty meters in front of me So I be totally left out of the conversation. to catch thought I have to get a skate board up with them, and I did.” of While most of his friends quickly tired their boards, Paddy and his mate Mark stuck with it and a healthy competitiveness developed between them as Paddy sick and explains: “My friend Mark is really school we grew up skating together at the skate up our way - we would sneak in and get out until the police came and told us to all our and then we’d bolt. Mark and I learnt tricks together and there was a real

his arms laid back style. He’ll do a trick with the hanging casually by his side like it’s easiest thing in the world. I like watching people skate but I’ve never been into I like learning tricks from videos or anything, the trying them out for myself and working moves out in my head.” Paddy’s skills on the board have earned him a sponsor, Loko skate shop, which supplies him with cool tees and a healthy on his discount, and he gets a good deal boards too. “I love Boarder Co boards,

make they’re an Irish company and they down to sick boards. In the end it all comes personal choice, but I like a good wide with board that feels solid beneath my feet a nice steep concave. I don’t like boards that feel like a toy.” Modest in the extreme, Paddy doesn’t puts his consider himself a good skater and in success at the Manny Mania contest to ‘the London at the end of last year down luck of the Irish.’ for Having practiced their manny moves and his a couple of hours in Belfast, Paddy heat friend turned up at Unit 13 for the local of the Manny Mania competition just Red minutes before it began: “I got a few I got Bulls into me and just went for it and lucky and won the local leg,” he explains. to take “They paid for me to go to London skaters. part in the UK final against 19 other really It was sick and the competition was were high. The standard was crazy; there so many people that were unbelievably good at skating. I was like ‘oh my god...’

and I got that weird feeling in my stomach. “I don’t know how I won. I just started skating and all these tricks just started working happening for me. Everything was energy for me. It was a combination of the In drinks, the crowds and the atmosphere. trick’ my head I was like I’ve got to get this

fun way to make a few quid, but it’s

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Manny Madness

UK Manny Mania champ, Paddy Maguire talks about the street skating scene in Belfast

when the place is buzzing and the atmosphere is really good, you’d maybe find 100 people here just chilling out and skating, it’s pretty awesome...

and I pulled it off.” Scooping £2,000 prize money, Paddy returned home the Manny Mania champ his having impressed the judges with creative, difficult and imaginative moves, pulling 17 tricks in the final round alone. a “Competitions are fun, “ he says. “It’s

Skate Basiks

Luke Humphreys talks you through the perfect kickflip

Tricks & Tips

From novice to nutter

Approach

visualise your line. rock garden and Look through the just to tackling the move spent time prior and You should have on the boulders lines. Don’t focus relaxed looking at possible hard bit is to stay ride into them. The rocks or you will bars till your knuckles bike. If you grip the low, pedals and supple on the centre of gravity crash. Keep your up turn white, you’ll and knees. Chin and bend the elbows centred all the way, momentum so forward line. You need looking at your chosen walking pace. approach at a fast

step guide to continues his step-by- to pedal… ready coach Dave Youngs Super skilled mtb Rock Garden and North Shore. Get Pictures: Jake Samuels mTb skills with the

NOVICE / BEGINNE

mountain bike

If you grip the bars ‘til your knuckles, turn white you’ll crash...

Obstacle

slower than a If you are going the bike will hit the fast walking pace momentum to go rocks and lack the hit a large rock don’t over them. If you lunge will compress and panic. The forks to going over the you forward similar the happening keep bars! To stop both aggressive with the front light and be you want it to go, bike putting it were bars and drop your push back on the If third of the bike. weight into the rear gather to and start you are descending zones, look for braking too much speed, or the front brakes the but don’t snatch you. Worst case will wash away from back brake to scrub scenario, use a little to will feel unnatural off the speed. It only rocks but it’s the carry speed over the basics from issue way. Remember don’t stay relaxed and one - look ahead, wheel. Don’t allow focus on the front you to drop down or your leading foot arms on the rocks. will catch the crank

ROCK GARDENS

in all over the trails Rock gardens are eye and sizes. The trained different shapes the quickest and will learn to pick

rider the experienced smoothest line and basic and effortless. Start will make it look with your mates. session all the lines for the basics look Once you have mastered and drops with twists, turns new challenges coupled with descents. the bike comfortable with You need to get around. All the slipping and sliding help in from issue one will descending skills technique. perfecting your

into of the trail. Move link up the next part the exit is key to set and ready Like all the skills and get the bike 4-5 metres in front why of the bike, look body position. Or the middle third the speed line and in front will determine Practice makes perfect! to go. The terrain on a different line. have another go not turn round and

Exit

23 www.uberdogmagazine.co.uk

David Youngs guides the beginner and intermediate mountain biker through two essential skills

Thrills & Spills

Pictures from the 2010 Irish Down Hill NPS

tools for the job

A buyers’ guide to bikes

tanding just 5’ 2 tall, Meave Baxter hasn’t let her height stop her climbing the podium to local and international

Pixie power

European DH champion Meave Baxter on the thrill of the hill

was in Mallow in Cork. “Michelle McMullan was the reigning Irish champion at the time

and she was delighted to have another girl racing with her,” Meave recalls. “She was so nice to me, walking me through the track

Rostrevor born, Meave spent her childhood growing up in the mountains and this self confessed tom boy followed in her brother’s footsteps developing a passion for bikes at a young age. “Being from Rostrevor I grew up on the side of a mountain,” she smiles. “We had horses too, so I was used to falling off and getting bumps and bruises. My brother got into bikes first and as I did everything he did, I quickly followed, the only problem was that I got all his hand-me-downs which were always a wee bit too big!” An Ulster three-way in 1998 was the first race Meave remembers doing. It combined downhill, slalom and cross country and Meave tackled the Leitrim, Lodge downhill course riding her brother Liam’s 18”bike which was huge. “I managed to wreck myself twice, but I still really enjoyed it,” she recalls. “After that I spent more time doing cross country than anything else, although you’d often find me following Liam on the downhill tracks on my cross country bike.” Encouraged by her brother to compete in downhill racing, Meave’s first official race

For the first time Meave’s getting to ride a custom built bike that’s right for her size, supplied by OC Tuning

winning the Irish National Championships, with numerous titles under her belt now, but it’s the international scene where she has really made her mark, coming second in the World Masters Championship in 2008 and winning the European’s last year. “I was really pleased with my performance at the Worlds,” she reveals. “Winning second place really took me by surprise. I was up against over 30 women in the category all of which were world class acts and to be fair the girl that beat me was racing her local track.” Spurred on by her success in 2008 and encouraged by fellow biker Tina Murray, Meave headed to Slovenia last year for the MTB European Championships, returning to Ireland as the gold winner of the Ladies Master Class. No small feat considering she was racing unfamiliar tracks on a bike that was technically too big for her. Talking about the European tracks Meave says: “There’s a big

and giving me lots of tips. Then on the second run I beat her by a fraction

of a second and she swore she would never teach me anything again. It went from there really…” Since she started racing Meave has dominated the Irish scene, consistently

For me it’s ding about fin erline that bord betweene fear absolut l... and thril

difference in racing in Ireland and Europe. Generally the European tracks are on ski slopes so they are much faster. We are very good in Ireland at doing roots and muck and wet and steep. Our tracks are not very fast but quite technical. Whereas in Europe they are very good at going fast in a straight line so there’s a real challenge there for Irish riders.”

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Ulster X-Country NPS

Jammed Up

Men, women and children battle it out at the Ulster (Rnd 1) and Irish NPS XC (Rnd 3) mtb races in Belfast

Pictures from two of Unit 13’s best jams to date

surf

Addicted to

Dange r

Addicted to danger

Big wave surfer Al Mennie won international acclaim when he surfed Ireland’s largest recorded wave. Not afraid to face up to his fears, Al talks about dicing with death and reveals why he thinks Ireland could soon be the new Hawaii…

and then went home, I just couldn’t do it, I couldn’t get the courage to paddle into one of the waves, I was just too scared. Your natural instinct is to get away from

Pictures by Gary McCall & Aaron Pierce

aterskiing at the age of six, surfing when he was nine and competing at the age of 14, it seemed that Al Mennie was born to surf. By 16 years old Al was winning contests and when it came time for him to go to go university Al chose Plymouth so he was well positioned to compete in the British Pro Surf Tour. His dedication paid off and in 2001 when he won the British Student Title, Al was the first surfer from Northern Ireland to ever win a British title. Impressive stuff, but behind the success, Al’s dedication was starting to wane: “I finished 5th in the BPSTour and started to look at the

Big wave surfer Al Mennie talks about dicing with death and reveals why he thinks Ireland could soon be the new Hawaii

international circuits but I’m 16 stone and 6ft 5 which is big for a surfer, so for me to surf small waves is really quite difficult, “ he explains. “I had to do a lot of training to surf small waves against guys half my size and while I did achieve, I could only go so far. To surf world level was out of my league, I knew I couldn’t make the standard, every contest was demanding so much more than I was capable off.

I kept trying to compete, even when I moved back here at the age of 23 I competed on the pro tour and flew around the world, but my heart wasn’t really in it and I guess I just drifted out of it.” Drifting out of small wave contests, Al found a new wave to surf. One that was bigger, bolder and altogether better - the big wave. “I remember when I was 13 watching a video that showed surfers in Mavericks in

danger, but I’ve learnt to put up with the fear. It’s always there, but I’ve learnt how to manage it and push past it.” Experiencing the waves in the legendary Mavericks for himself lead Al to a realisation that the big waves he had been surfing in Ireland were something very similar, sparking a determination to uncover Ireland as the next ‘big wave capital’.

California and thinking I want to do that some day. Mavericks is one of the most feared places on the planet and yet I grew up with this passion and desire to face the waves there. “Then when I was 22 my dad died and the last words I said to him were “I want to go and surf Mavericks,” and he gave me his blessing, so that probably spurred me on a lot.”

Settling in Portrush, Al borrowed some money, bought a boat and armed himself with admiralty charts, marking all the spots were geographically and physically capable of having the potential to produce big waves off the coast. “I went out in the boat and paddled out to the biggest waves that had ever been seen in Ireland at that stage,” he reveals. “Soon I realised that the potential was bigger than anything I could physically paddle out to so I sold the boat and bought a jet ski and looked for a tow partner to work with which was a whole new experience for me.” Unable to find any Irish surfers who had the will or inclination to tackle the monster big waves, Al found a tow partner in Andrew Cotton, a friend based in England, who he has been tow-

Your natural instinct is to get away from danger, but I’ve learnt to put up with the fear. It’s always there, but I’ve learnt how to manage it and push past it

That same year Al fulfiled his dream and travelled to America where he came face to face with the formidable force of 40 feet high waves, an experience which he recalls as being totally terrifying: “The first time we went to Mavericks I sat for eight hours in the water staring at the waves

“I realised that the same sort of waves existed here but hadn’t really been discovered yet,” he begins. “A few people had seen some big waves and noticed the potential but I realised there was more than just potential - the waves were the same, they just hadn’t been documented yet, so that became my ambition, to track down the big waves in Ireland.”

in surfing with from the age of 23. “Partnering up with someone was difficult,” confides Al.

“Surfing is an individual sport and I was used to working on my own but if I wanted to surf the big waves I needed a tow partner. The whole shift to tow-in was a dramatic change for me. I had to deal with working with a partner, which causes friction to start with; I needed to handle a jet ski and get to terms with the new equipment such as the 10kg leadweighted board. No one else was doing

Al tackles a big wave off the coast of Ireland

the dog digs

No water? Blackwater!

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überdog sniffs out the latest products, kit and gear on the market

Kayak king, Iain Walker, reports on the River Blackwater, Co. Tyrone

46 47 49

River Review: Shimna Sport Sunnies

Step out of the shade in some cool specs

Club Corner

Lisburn City Paddlers

Spotted at the recent “Good Times ‘Screamin’ BMX Jam at Unit 13, 21 year old Alan by the Power from Waterford. Sponsored : The Big Dog aph togr Boardroom Bmx Store. Pho

cover star:

COVFR STAR

success in downhill racing since she first took up the sport five years ago.

thats not a chocolate bar!

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contents

Bottoms Up

The long & short of it

flannel panel

Iain Gilmore talks you through that essential surf basic, the bottom turn

ain bike

Wave ski

Show off some leg this summer

Don’t be fooled by the name, waveski has nothing to do with skiing and everything to do with having fun on the waves as Marty McCann explains…

Introduction to waveski

Pictures courtesy of Conor Daly and Daveth Fox

o what is waveski? Well it really depends how you look

at it. For some a waveski is a surfboard that you sit on and paddle a bit like a kayak. For others it is a high performance surf kayak. Essentially a waveski looks like a fat surfboard with a seat, lap belt and foot loops to keep the rider in contact with the board. The waveskier surfs ocean

waves in the same manner as a stand-up surfer and uses the same repertoire of manoeuvres and techniques to surf the wave to its full potential.

So what equipment do you need? Compared to kayaking there is very little gear required to enjoy this sport. You will need to stay warm with a wetsuit and

60 surf

trush, Al borrowed some a boat and armed himself arts, marking all the spots ally and physically g the potential to produce

coast. he boat and paddled out ves that had ever been

that stage,” he reveals. hat the potential was ing I could physically

sold the boat and nd looked for a tow

th which was a whole erience for me.” e to find any Irish surfers

the will or inclination to e monster big waves, Al ow partner in Andrew a friend based in who he has been towg with from the age of

ering up with someone cult,” confides Al.

is an individual sport

working on my own but e big waves I needed whole shift to tow-in

nge for me. I had to

th a partner, which

rt with; I needed to get to terms with the h as the 10kg leadone else was doing

booties, have a paddle for obvious reasons and also stay safe with a helmet depending on where and when you are surfing. In the beginning it is also important to wear a leash to keep the waveski escaping you on wiping out. A waveski is constructed in much the same way as a surfboard. Firstly the foam core is shaped by the ‘shaper ‘then covered with two layers of fine fibreglass

team woof:

County Tyrone man Gerry McGlinchey, New Age World No.4

Marty McCann reveals why Waveski will leave you wanting more

Waveski

big dog: Robert Doherty email: rob@uberdogmagazine.co.uk telephone: 077 1184 6246

They must be barking!

Marty McCann south of Gisborne, New Zealand

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Extreme racing at its best, we report from the first ever Norn Iron Man contest

62 63

Happy Feet

Whatever you’re getting up to, make sure your feet are dressed for the occasion in the season’s latest trainers

sales: Andy McCombe email: andy@uberdogmagazine.co.uk telephone: 077 0860 9872

Club Corner

Queens Caving Club

editor: Tara Craig email: editorial@uberdogmagazine.co.uk telephone: 077 4042 2787

Adventuring

I’m Still Standing Mastering the extreme sports of indigenous tribes around the world, Last Woman five months of her life. überdog caught up with the Bangor born sports star to

he may not have won the series, but for local athlete Joni Swanston, starring in BBC’s Last Woman Standing was the experience of a lifetime. The series followed five British athletes travelling the world to compete against women from remote tribes and cultures, spending one week in each location to master an indigenous sport, whilst eating and sleeping as their local competitors do. The competition began with an aggressive wrestling tournament when the girls spent time in a small Brazilian village to train with a tough tribe where, for one week a year, the women are allowed to take centre stage in a wrestling tournament. Joni fights her way to first place proving she’s a force to be reckoned with, but the physical demands seem extreme and leave you wondering why an attractive, 24 year-old sales account manager would put herself in this situation. So what inspired Joni to take up the challenge? “I have always been into sport,” she begins. “I took part and competed in so many sports growing up - sailing, netball, swimming, gymnastics, athletics, dance, football, hockey and rugby. I just love learning new skills and working towards competitions. I love the routine involved in training and the best part is meeting new people and the social side that comes from sport.

later they gave me a call and I had a telephone interview. After that I had to attend a casting followed by a fitness day, which was excruciating! Then a few days later I got a call from the Series Producer to tell me I had made the final five who were going to compete in LWS!”

Joni as most of her friends know her and (far right) as she appeared in ‘Last Woman Standing’

I’m still standing

Star of the BBC’s Last Woman Standing, Joni Swanston reveals the extremes of her television experience

Investigate, spectate & participate

Scuba Diving

Festival frolics

masochistic mayhem

We check out the best festivals for camping fun this summer

überdog shares a few weird words with Pancho from Dirty Sanchez

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Standing competitor Joni Swanston faced the toughest but most thrilling find out how starring in a BBC series has changed her life… shocked when she heard she had made it into the programme: “I didn’t really know how to feel, “ she explains. “I was really excited and just grateful for the opportunity, which I knew was going to be an experience of a lifetime! I was plagued with an ankle injury so when I found out I

had made the show I stayed focused and concentrated on getting my ankle rehabilitated in time so I felt 100% going into the competition.” Needing to put on the biggest show of her life, Joni faced a series of gruelling challenges including buffalo racing in

Indonesia, bamboo rafting in the Philippines and running up a mountain in Mexico. Gritting her teeth in determination Joni won the first event, a female wrestling competition in Brazil, beating off stiff competition from fellow contestants and local experts alike.

For exclusive magazine updates visit

www.uberdogmagazine.co.uk

überdog magazine ISSN 2043-7048

I’ve always been a tomboy and have a very high threshold which I pain kept my mother think toes as I was growion her ng up!

“So when an email was sent to my Rugby Club looking for contestants for this new extreme sports TV show I applied straight away. About five minutes

mother on her toes as I was growing up! I’ve also learnt to be mentally tough as this is essential in competitive sports.” Well accustomed to winning Joni, who plays rugby for Richmond and has represented Ireland in sailing and Northern Ireland at netball, was still

Keep up to date with Team Woof at

Describing herself as a tough tomboy who’s always up for a challenge Joni clearly had the skills for the job: “I’ve always been a tomboy and have a very high pain threshold, which I think kept my

Volume 2: Issue 2 was published by

Pig's Ear Publishing llp. email: info@pigsearpublishing.co.uk web: www.pigsearpublishing.co.uk printed by

W&G Baird, Antrim web: www.wgbaird.com distributed by

EM News Distribution Belfast & Dublin web: www.emnewsdistribution.com Reproduction in whole or in part without written permission is strictly prohibited. All prices and dates correct at the time of going to press but are subject to change. überdog cannot be held responsible for unsolicited material or photographs or for the views and opinion of our advertisers. For competition terms and conditions visit www.uberdogmagazine.co.uk The views expressed by contributors and correspondents in articles, reports, reviews and other contributions do not necessarily represent those of the publisher. Accordingly, the publisher is not responsible for any such view, nor for any act or omission on the part of any such contributor or correspondent. Neither is any responsibility accepted by the publisher for any loss or damage caused to any person relying on any statement in, or omission from überdog magazine.

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the street… Mütt Snutts, überdog’s roving reporter reveals the latest word on

It’s gonna be Epic SIX DAYS racing. 380km of trails.

be registered as one of the few solo

13,000m of vertical climbing. These are

female riders taking part and we wish

the challenges facing Belfast’s Ciara

her the very best of luck.

McManus when she tackles the 2010

21st - 27th August 2010. If you would

Colorado, widely recognized as being

like to make a donation in support of

one of the most challenging races in

the challenge, with all money going to

the world.

Marie Curie visit

Ciara is racing to raise funds for the

www.teamsummit.com.

Marie Curie Cancer charity in memory

For more information on the race

of her father, a keen cyclist who passed

visit www.breckepic.com

away in 2008.

Ciara will be reporting on her

Travelling with her trusty mechanic /

Ciara is a seasoned XC racer

The Breck Epic MTB race is held on

Breck Epic MTB stage race in

support guru Conor Graham, Ciara will

Take a Trek

experience in issue 4 of überdog magazine.

New canoe access point THE paddle brigade will be pleased to hear that a new canoe access point

ÜBERDOG is delighted to announce that

up this 100km trek along a cross-border

on the Upper Bann has been agreed

we are the official media sponsors for the

route. Not interested? How about we tell

with Banbridge Council. The car park

Oxfam Ireland Trailtrekker 2010.

you that you need to do the trek in 36

in Gilford, just after the roundabout on

hours, walking through day and night. Bet

the right, is owned by the council and

encouraging all our fans to put your energy

that sounds more like the challenge you’re

they would like to encourage

behind something worthwhile by signing

after!

canoeists to use this access/egress

Over the next few months we will be

This unique event requires teams of four

point rather than going through the

people to walk around the clock and is the

Graveyard at Tullylish. The council is

only international Trailtrekker event to

very keen to develop canoeing in the

include a boat trip. The 100km trail, starts

area and are also hoping to put in

in Newcastle and traverses the Mourne

canoe steps at the proposed new

mountains, the Ring of Gullion, the Cooley

sports complex in Gilford. Roger

Peninsula and the medieval village of

Hamilton, Participation Officer, Canoe

Carlingford. The 36-hour time challenge

Association Northern Ireland

means this trek will require determination,

encourages a visit saying :“it’s a nice

stamina and dedication. Go on, you can

section of water down to Gilford with

do it!

two more weirs which can be good

Last years event raised £315,000 for the

fun and some small shoots similar to

charity and hopes are high that the 2010

those at Seapatrick which are good

trek, taking place on 4-5 September, will

for developing moving water skills.”

recruit 150 teams and raise in excess of

For more information on where to

£450,000.

paddle in Northern Ireland check out

For more details visit

www.canoeni.com

www.oxfamireland.org/TRAILTREKKER

www.uberdogmagazine.co.uk

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Give it a go… FANCY trying your hand at parkour but not sure where to begin? If you’re at least 15 years of age you can enroll in the Parkour Academy running in the Waterfront Hall from the 19-23 July as part of the ever popular Trans Festival and Urban Arts Academy. Costing £50 the five-day course is aimed at beginners, providing a safe and supervised environment in which to learn the basic techniques and gain an understanding of the philosophy and the discipline behind what traceurs do. Fundamental skills are taught indoors and then pupils are free to transfer those skills to the 'real world' by applying what they’ve learnt practically in an urban environment. To book call the Waterfront box office: 028 90334455 or visit www.transbelfast.com

Tramp bike

7th HEAVEN FERMANAGH HITS HIGH NOTE Taryn and A Andrea from the Bike Dock Belles have become the first

Pic of the day:

female pairLeisure (and second pair any sort ever) to do the "7 Sevens" with Lakeland Centre in of Enniskillen

STEVE McLaughlin, a 15 year old from Carrickfergus sent us

bikes. The challenge involves climbing now boasts a two-part climbing wall all seven peaks in the Mountains

this wicked picture of his tramp

of Mourne that arelow over 700 metres course above sea level. There is an installation. The rise outdoor

bike. “I got bored and took the

organised 7 Sevens event that takes in the popular play walking park is a great way to place annually, but with

wheels off my old bike. I’ve been

bikes the challenge moreand extreme. So what was it all for? "No introduce children is tomuch climbing

bmxing for

idea really!" laughs grips Andrea. than it wouldn’t be cycle training. We features climbing on"Other the stones

about a year

set out on our adventure very designed in such a wayknowing that theythat can belittle cycling would be done,

and I’m

but rather we would carryingdevelop and pushing the bikes all day. It's called bouldered when thebechildren

completely

"hike-a-bike" in the world Adventure Racing. This was a true epic, their co-ordination and of strength.

addicted to

requiring gargantuan strength in both physical and mental terms.

extreme

There's a reason only two people have ever done it before!"

sports.”

Get the boot in! TIME to get yourself out of the sweaty, smelly,

elements. All activities and challenges have

stuffy gyms and into the clean fresh country

been developed to test individual’s mental

air by tramping through bogs, crawling

and physical toughness.

around in the mud, navigating rocky terrain and surviving in the wilderness! Ireland’s number one extreme outdoor adventure centre, Toddsleap.com, is taking

Challenge and compete with your mates and round the day off around the camp fire for a well deserved cup of tea. If you want to test your fitness levels,

personal fitness to a new level with the

improve them or simply challenge yourself or

introduction of Boot Camps. The Boot

your team mates…this is the Boot Camp for

Camps are tailored to suit individual fitness

you.

levels and can incorporate intense hikes on

For more information and to book into a

the Slieve Moore Mountain, circuit training

Boot Camp call Toddsleap.com on

and physical challenges incorporating the

028 8556 7170 or visit www.toddsleap.com

NEW HOME WANTED Wexford based company Spraoilinn are looking to introduce an innovative range of new parkour installations to Ireland. This picture, taken recently at an event launch for the new parkour range in Germany, show the installation outside a train station where two local free runners demonstrated the pieces. Let’s hope a local council give the concept the Are they smiling in pain or pleasure?

thumbs up soon. www.spraoilinn.com

www.uberdogmagazine.co.uk

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d n a k c o r a n ! t e c e e tw . perf e b . k . c e u c t a S l p rd a h a Tollymore National Outdoor Centre provides the widest range of courses in Ireland. The state of the art facility, funded and managed by Sport Northern Ireland, reopens in April 2010 following a major redevelopment.

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T: 028 4372 2158 E: admin@tollymore.com W: www.tollymore.com

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So the sun’s not shining. Who cares? This is Norn’ Ireland and a little rain isn’t going to stop us having fun this summer. Here’s a round-up of our top local events for June & July come rain, hail or shine…

6 June Down 100:

Carrowdore, County Down

100 miles in one day, The Down 100 is a brand new bike challenge from Action Medical Research . Sure to be a hit for experienced cyclists as well as those wanting to take on a distance challenge for the first time, the course includes a gruelling 100-mile route and a shorter, but still tough, 100-km circular route . Starting out from the grounds of Strangford College in Carrowdore this ride meanders along quiet country lanes and is fully supported by route signs, marshals, bike mechanics, back-up vehicles, regular drink points and a lunch stop. For information about the bike ride and to sign up visit www.action.org.uk/down

Ulster XC MTB series 19 June: Rnd 2 Davagh Forest, Cookstown 26 June; Rnd 3 Dunmore Mountain, Ballynahinch

12 June

20 June

Mourne Way Marathon

G-Ride Full Irish 4X NPS: Rnd 2

Newcastle-Rostrevor, County Down

GASP Surfin' Dirt Mountain Board Centre, Bryansford

of cross country mountain bike racing in

Fed up running on the roads, pounding all

The second round of G-Ride 4 comes to

featuring seven exhilarating mountain bike

those miles on hard concrete? Or perhaps

the off-road track at GASP where it will

races on some of the best courses in the

you’re a fell runner looking for a race that ‘s

return in October. Keep an eye on

country from the Mournes to the Sperrins.

a little different from all the others on the

www.irishdh.com for the latest info and

For more race dates

calendar? 26 Extreme’s Mourne Way

calendar dates.

visit www.ulsterxc.com

After a one year break 2010 sees the return Ulster. Expect a fun packed season

Marathon is a race without a traffic light, roundabout or concrete jungle in sight! Almost entirely off road the event will see

19 June

competitors race the 26 miles of the

World Mountain Boarding Day

Mourne Way from Newcastle to Rostrevor, Co Down across spectacular countryside.

GASP Surfin' Dirt Mountain Board Centre, Bryansford

An Ultra Marathon, Half Marathon, 10k

The whole world will be enjoying mountain boarding on June

run/walk and a Challenge Walk will also be

19 this year and to celebrate the event GASP Surfin' Dirt will

running on the day.

be running £10 introduction sessions (normally £17.50 pp) to

For more details visit

learn the basic skills required to shred those hills.

www.mournewaymarathon.com

Visit www.gaspactionsports.com for details.

www.uberdogmagazine.co.uk

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Diary Dates

26-27 June

25 July

Co-operation Ireland Mara Cycle Belfast-Dublin

NI Bog Snorkelling Championships

Keep the weekend of 26-27 June 2010 free if you want to be part

Peatlands Park

of the biggest and best North South cycling event - the Co-

Peatlands Park will once again be hosting

operation Ireland Maracycle. The challenge is a 2-day 200-mile

the annual International Bog Day to

cycling extravanga, between the two capital cities of Belfast and

celebrate the importance and beauty of

Dublin. This year it will begin and end in Belfast and next year

bogs. The day also includes Northern

Dublin will be the starting location.

Ireland’s Bog Snorkelling Championshipswhich attracts competitors from all over Ireland. Competitors have to swim two lengths of a 60-yard bog drain with the aid of a snorkel, mask and flippers and without using any conventional swimming strokes! Anyone over the age of 12 can have a go - and the good news is it’s free to enter.

The Bike Dock Belles show their support for the cross border cycle

26-26 June

16-18 July Surfworld Men’s Surf Boot Camp Bundoran, Donegal The perfect opportunity for all you health

Waterways Ireland Loughfest

conscious, sporty types to mix your

Lough Erne, Enniskillen

surfing with a fun fitness program. The

3-4 July

two-day course includes surf lessons,

Waterways Ireland Riverfest

B&B, meals, theory classes, yoga and

River Bann, Coleraine

more.

Looking for a family-friendly and free day out? These two events

For more details visit

should fit the bill with their fun packed programmes of water and

www.surfworldireland.com

land based activities. Come along to the Loughfest to see barefooting by a team of world-class experienced professionals; Florida’s Tampa Bay Water Ski Show Team and the Freestyle Jet Ski Team which will be wowing crowds with inverts of up to 20ft. On-land activities will include climbing walls, bouncy castles and slides, laser quest, gourmet food stalls and live entertainment. For more info on Waterways Ireland Riverfest and Waterways Ireland Loughfest click www.waterwaysireland.org

June & July

Every Saturday go canoeing

Irish DH NPS

Shaws Bridge, Belfast

The pain and the pleasure continues

Every Saturday (except July fortnight) you

as the NPS continues the circuit of

can just turn up and pay from £10 for a

Ireland’s best down hill mountain

canoe tutorial including equipment hire.

bike tracks.

9-11am Splash!

11-13 JUNE:

Kids session £10pp (kids only)

NPS Rnd 6, Glen of Imaal, Wicklow

2-4pm Family open session

26-27 JUNE:

Everyone welcome. Children must be

NPS Rnd 7, Clonmel, Tipperary

accompanied by an adult. £10pp (under

24-25 JULY:

15's) £15pp (16+)

NPS Rnd 8, Carrick Mountain,

4.30-6.30pm Adults open session

Wicklow

(16+ only) £15 pp

www.uberdogmagazine.co.uk

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S ORTE TOLLYOM ’ SF RMA ION TRAN

It used to resemble a log cabin in the middle of the woods, now Tollymore National Outdoor Centre is a state-of-the-art, eco iew of friendly building that’s worthy of its name. überdog got a prev what’s on offer and can’t wait to go back for more…

ou can’t help but be

of a coffee shop and full time catering (the

years ago we had to pull asbestos out of

impressed by the incredible

head chef comes highly commended from

the building which was expensive and at

structure that is the newly

the Maghera Inn) will allow the centre to

the same time we looked at how much it

titled Tollymore National

become a meeting point and communal

would cost to maintain the building in the

Outdoor Centre. Seven years

spot for lovers of the great outdoors:

future, which was a lot, so it was suggested

since discussions began for an ‘extension’

“We’ve made a big push to make Tollymore

that we build a new building.”

to the original activity centre, the new multi-

a real focus for outdoor enthusiasts,” he

million pound facility stands proud on the

begins. “The hope is that bikers, hill

planning approval and tending for

landscape.

walkers, climbers and so on will come back

contractors began, and as Trevor reveals,

here for a cup of coffee after their trip or

luck was on their side: “We were very

has a largely timber frame, but there the

drop in for advice or to check out the

fortunate that money came into being and

similarities end. The soft flowing lines and

courses. We’ve not been able to offer that

was secured when there was lots of money

wooden casing of the new Tollymore

until now because we were so confined for

around Then we went out to tender for

ensure it blends effortlessly into woodland

space, but ideally, that’s how this space

and yet the striking floor to ceiling glass

would be used,” he says motioning to the

front gives the building a modern, new age

spacious lounge area in which we sit

feel that allows visitors to immerse

enjoying hot refreshments and some home

themselves in the magical setting of

baked cakes.

Like the former building, the new centre

Tollymore Forest Park. Despite final finishing touches still to be

Built in the 1970s the former two-storey building, while considered pioneering for its

put in place, the building certainly has the

time, had grown tired and inadequate for

wow factor, commanding your attention

the needs of the modern day sporting

from the moment you drive into the car

enthusiast.

park and retaining it until you reluctantly leave. The reception area gives way to an impressive two storey lounge/dining room where you can sit and bask in the warm sunshine that floods in through the glass front on a summers day or defrost by the inviting wooden stove in the winter months. Centre manager Trevor Fisher hopes that these new facilities, along with the addition

And so the long process of fundraising,

“It served its purpose but was definitely showing its age,” Trevor explains. “Eight

Banish from your mind any memories of large dormitories and communal showers this Tollymore is in a different class

A simple log cabin it ain’t - the new look Tollymore

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outdoor centre contractors just at the time that contractors

sports, rock climbing, mountain biking,

bouldering wall, weights and new kayak

were looking for work. So we got the build

coasteering and rope courses and with

training machine.

at a very good price. Even since then the

three full-time and six trainee instructors on

cost of materials has fallen in price, so

site, help is always on hand.

we’re at the fortunate position where we’re

“ We hope that overall Tollymore will be a more attractive place for people to come,”

The large new changing areas, shower

says Trevor. “The facilities are excellent

nearing the end of the build and we have

rooms, drying rooms and storage rooms

because we’ve been fortunate enough to

money to spend which has allowed us to

make sport participation easier than ever

say ‘we’d like this and this and this… the

put in some additional extras.”

and with a shop and bar opening soon, it

important thing now is that we get the

will be all the more pleasurable too. You

message out there that we are open for

- a tour of the building reveals state of the

can even plan your visit around the weather

business.” o

art technology and attention to detail at

using the Tollymore weather web-cam.

The additional extras don’t go unnoticed

every turn - from the high tech conference

Serious performers will appreciate the

facilities to the quality coffee machine in the

new canoe pool with side viewing windows

Tollymore National Outdoor Centre

lounge and Ireland’s only purpose built

where you can learn to roll a kayak and the

and the facilities and courses on offer

canoe roll pool - Tollymore has it all.

specialist training room with a fantastic

visit www.tollymore.com

For more information on

Banish from your mind any memories of large dormitories and communal showers -

Light and airy the new reception

this Tollymore is in a different class. Sleeping 40 people (46 at a push), the new Tollymore only accommodates six more people than it’s predecessor and yet floor space has increased from 3,000sq ft to an incredible 26,000, making it an altogether different experience. The 20 twin ensuite bedrooms feature cool walk-in wet rooms and boast a high finish and spectacular views (if booking ask for a front facing top floor room - the high arched wooden roof and views of the mountains are really something). The overall impression is one of comfort and quality that far exceeds the £50 per room per night price tag. Add another £6 and you get a home cooked breakfast too - the perfect start to an action packed day. Purpose designed, this outdoor centre features everything you need to enjoy a brilliant day outside. Whatever your sporting passion or your ability level, there’s something here to amuse and thrill. Courses include mountaineering, canoe The kayak roll pool The new bouldering training wall

www.uberdogmagazine.co.uk

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skate

Manny Madn e Mania Belfast street skater Paddy Maguire was crowned the UK Red Bull Manny rs. wowing the champ when he beat off stiff competition from Britain’s finest skate … judges with his technical tricks, he pulled 17 in the final round alone

f you happen to be passing

competitiveness between us. We each

they’re an Irish company and they make

Custom House Square or Writers

wanted to get better than the other, so we

sick boards. In the end it all comes down to

Square in Belfast on a nice day,

were learning new tricks but having fun at

personal choice, but I like a good wide

chances are you’ll spot Paddy

the same time, the way kids do.”

board that feels solid beneath my feet with

Maguire, Belfast’s street skate-star who

A self-taught skater, Paddy sites

a nice steep concave. I don’t like boards that feel like a toy.”

recently scooped £2,000 when he and

professional skate borders Antwuan Dixon

his technical trickery proved to be the

and Tom Perry as his inspiration. “For

Modest in the extreme, Paddy doesn’t

best in Britain.

these guys it’s all about image. I love

consider himself a good skater and puts his

watching Antwuan skate, he has this really

success at the Manny Mania contest in

He’ll be the one in the skate t-shirt and board riding the ledges, jumping the

London at the end of last year down to ‘the

steps or practicing his manuals (two

luck of the Irish.’ Having practiced their manny moves for

wheels only tricks). Of course he wont’ be alone, Paddy is

a couple of hours in Belfast, Paddy and his

just one of a growing number of kids taking

friend turned up at Unit 13 for the local heat

to the streets to practice their

of the Manny Mania competition just

skateboarding skills, partly because, with

minutes before it began: “I got a few Red

the exception of Unit 13, the indoor skate

Bulls into me and just went for it and I got

park, there’s no where else to go, and

lucky and won the local leg,” he explains.

partly because it’s fun and the camaraderie

“They paid for me to go to London to take

is unbeatable.

part in the UK final against 19 other skaters. It was sick and the competition was really

Now 18 years old, Paddy started skating eight years ago. “It was the summer before

high. The standard was crazy; there were

I started secondary school. All my other

so many people that were unbelievably

mates had started doing it - I’d be walking

good at skating. I was like ‘oh my god...’

down the road and they’d be skating down

and I got that weird feeling in my stomach. “I don’t know how I won. I just started

the road thirty meters in front of me and I’d

skating and all these tricks just started

be totally left out of the conversation. So I thought I have to get a skate board to catch

laid back style. He’ll do a trick with his arms

happening for me. Everything was working

up with them, and I did.”

hanging casually by his side like it’s the

for me. It was a combination of the energy

easiest thing in the world. I like watching

drinks, the crowds and the atmosphere. In

their boards, Paddy and his mate Mark

people skate but I’ve never been into

my head I was like I’ve got to get this trick’

stuck with it and a healthy competitiveness

learning tricks from videos or anything, I like

and I pulled it off.”

developed between them as Paddy

trying them out for myself and working the

explains: “My friend Mark is really sick and

moves out in my head.”

While most of his friends quickly tired of

we grew up skating together at the school

Paddy’s skills on the board have earned

Scooping £2,000 prize money, Paddy returned home the Manny Mania champ having impressed the judges with his

up our way - we would sneak in and skate

him a sponsor, Loko skate shop, which

creative, difficult and imaginative moves,

until the police came and told us to get out

supplies him with cool tees and a healthy

pulling 17 tricks in the final round alone.

and then we’d bolt. Mark and I learnt all our

discount, and he gets a good deal on his

tricks together and there was a real

boards too. “I love Boarder Co boards,

“Competitions are fun, “ he says. “It’s a fun way to make a few quid, but it’s

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skate

n ess

when the place is buzzing and the atmosphere is really good, youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;d maybe find 100 people here just chilling out and skating, itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s pretty awesome... www.uberdogmagazine.co.uk

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skate

stressful, especially the night before when

getting grief. Just the other day I was in the

beginners and advanced skaters so

you’re thinking about skating in front of all

Spar getting a few groceries and this dude

everyone comes here - there’s ledges, a

those people. But I have to make money

started making comments - he expected

two step and a four step to jump down. On

some way, so it’s great that the opportunity

me to laugh, but after eight years of getting

a really good day when the place is

is there.”

hassle it’s not funny anymore.”

buzzing and the atmosphere is really good,

Paddy dropped out of tech last year

Seeking refuge among like-minded kids

you’d maybe find 100 people here just

when the hostility of local students and the

from an early age Paddy found himself

chilling out and skating, it’s pretty

draw of the skateboard got the better of

drawn to Belfast’s top skate session spots

awesome.”

him.

where he quickly became part of the skate

“I went to college last year to try and do my A-levels but I kept going in with my

Even the addition of the anti skate balls

scene, making new friends with kids who

onto the benches and ledges hasn’t

shared his passion for skateboarding.

dimmed the spots popularity as Paddy

skateboard and ditching off to go skating at

“Ten years ago St Anne’s was the best

reveals: “The balls make it harder to do the

the break and not going back. I didn’t really

skate spot in Belfast,” he explains. “Before

tricks, but they don’t stop us - they make it

like to the atmosphere either - I’d be

Writers Square was done over there were

tough to do grinding and sliding, but that

walking along the corridor with my

ledges everywhere and it was awesome.

doesn’t stop us from skating here. It’s still a

skateboard and people would laugh at me,

Now its been redone there are still some

great spot for a session.”

so I decided I didn’t want to go anymore.”

great features including a huge set of steps

On the downside, city centre street

and some ledges - that became my

skating does have it’s drawbacks, most

makers and general no gooders, Paddy

playground, that’s where I went to watch

notably the mixture of unsavoury characters

believes skaters face a lot of unnecessary

and learn and before long I was doing

- drug dealers and pushers - who tend to

abuse: “People are really closed minded in

tricks off the ledges too.”

prey on the kids in the area, making drugs

Commonly misunderstood to be trouble

Belfast - everyone looks down on

Custom House Square is another

a common feature on the street scene,

skateboarders. You can’t carry a

popular skate spot and another of Paddy’s

something Paddy is quite outspoken

skateboard without getting looked at and

stomping grounds: “It’s got everything for

against: “You don’t have to look hard to see

Paddy at Writers Square

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Page 17

skate

people snorting and talking drugs, buzzing

SKATE LINGO

about and going nuts. Anyone walking past automatically thinks the skaters are up to the

AIR

same. It’s a shocking injustice, but it’s the way it

when the skateboard and skater leave

always was and the way it probably always will

the ground

be. “It’s really off putting when you’re trying to

ASS KNIFE

skate and some kid comes up to you who is

when you mess up a trick and

buzzing off his face. I mean what are they doing

your board comes up and hits

taking that crap on a Saturday afternoon? I’m

you in the butt

not really into any of that; all I want to do is skate. It’s important to stick with other skaters

BAIL

otherwise you get hassle from the scum bags

to fall off your board

which sucks, but after eight years I’m kinda used to it now.” Another popular meet point is Unit 13, the

GRIND there are lots of variations on this

provinces only indoor skate park. Costing £5 a

move, which involves moving

session it’s more expensive than riding the

along the edge or top of an object

streets, but Paddy is a strong supporter: “£5 is

with the axles of both trunks

actually pretty good value because it’s a great skate park and it’s good to support something

MANUAL

like that, but I don’t get to go there that often. It’s

travelling on two wheels, like a wheelie

not that easy to get out too, but I try to go once a week, the best night is Wednesday which is

MONGO

skate night.”

pumping with your front foot

Eagerly awaiting the opening of the city’s first

instead of back

and only concrete park in the late summer Paddy says: “It’s taking its time, but it will be

NO OLLIE

mega when it opens. It’s hard to believe that this

like an ollie but while travelling place

will be Northern Ireland’s first concrete park

your front foot on the nose and pop

when there are so many in the south. Down

into the air using the nose (rather than

south it seems everyone is a skater. When I go

the tail as in an ollie)

to a park in the south, I spend most of the time watching everyone skate rather than skating

NOSE SLIDE

myself. They are so much more experienced

sliding along an object using the

and skilled then we are, but then they’ve got the

underside of nose

concrete skate parks to practice on which we don’t have - we’ve had to learn on the streets.” Currently living off his two grand win, Paddy is looking forward to the summer when he heads

OLLIE a basic move this is an air without using hands

to Barcelona to spend a month with friends filming skating for a video. After that, his future is

SICK

less certain, although more skating and plans to

awesome, skilful

further his education appear to be a priority: “I live to skate, but I need to make money too and

SET

although you can win the odd competition,

a set of stairs

that’s not really enough, so I need to think of my future and get back to school. I need to obtain

SPUD

more will power for that though,” he laughs.

a beginner skater

“Hopefully Barcelona will clear my mind.” o

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In the first of a new series of tutorials for the skate novice, lip… skate devotee Luke Humphreys talks through the all-essential kickf

Lesson 1 : How to Kickflip most other more The kickflip is a fairly basic trick but is the foundation forwas originally advanced tricks. It was first invented by Rodney Mullen andyou have to commit, known as the magic flip. As with all skateboarding tricks land it... which means always start the trick as if you are going to Requirements: Ollie. SET UP your feet in the kickflip foot position (shown to the right) and bend your knees to prepare to jump up as you do the trick. Make sure you are well balanced on the board when setting up.

3 WHEN the board hits the ground bend your knees to absorb the impact and roll away in style!

SNAP DOWN the tail and extend your legs as you jump. While doing this slide your front foot up and off the side of the board (use the side of your shoe as shown) and lift the back foot off the tail to allow the board to spin under you. JUMP HIGH and extend your legs like a star jump to make sure the board doesn’t hit you. Always look down at the board, and when the grip tape begins to show, start bringing your feet back towards the board ready to catch it.

WHEN YOU see the grip tape push down on your back foot ﬁrst and try to aim for the bolts because if you land on the tail chances are your front foot won’t land on the board. Once the back foot is on the board then your front foot naturally comes down in front of it.

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Skateboarding

Starting foot position

COMMON PROBLEMS: There are lots of common problems with the kickﬂip as it is usually the ﬁrst trick you learn after the ollie. It will take a lot of practice and requires trial and error to get it right. Since I started skating I have realised that if the board doesn’t spin you are not kicking off the side hard enough. If your front foot touches the ground

as soon as the board starts to spin you are kicking down and not ﬂicking off to get the spin, and if you feel you are doing everything right but you just can’t get that extra spin, try jumping higher and waiting longer to stomp down on the board. If you really can’t seem to do the trick check out my videos online on

Giving it a go? Why not video your attempts, whether successful, disastrous or just plain daft, and email them into tv@uberdogmagazine.co.uk

Hope this helps, Luke how to do them. o

ateboard For a video version of this tutorial visit: www.uberdogmagazine.co.uk/sk x k4tebo or luke’s own channel at www.youtube.com/s www.uberdogmagazine.co.uk

020-021 Chain Reaction Cycles Ad.qxp

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022-029 Dave Youngs Pages.qxp

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continues his step-by-step guide to s ng You e Dav ch coa b mt ed ill sk Super Shore. Get ready to pedalâ&#x20AC;Ś h rt No d an en rd Ga ck Ro e th h wit Pictures: Jake Samuels mTb skills

NOVICE / BEGINNER:

ROCK GARDENS

s in Rock gardens are all over the trail eye ed train The s. size different shapes and and kest quic the will learn to pick ced rider smoothest line and the experien basic and will make it look effortless. Start es. session all the lines with your mat for look cs basi the d tere Once you have mas s drop and s turn ts, new challenges with twis . ents desc with coupled

the bike You need to get comfortable with the slipping and sliding around. All will help in descending skills from issue one technique. your g perfectin

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Tricks & Tips Approach

visualise your line. Look through the rock garden and the move just ling to tack You should have spent time prior lders and bou s on the looking at possible lines. Don’t focu hard bit is to stay relaxed rocks or you will ride into them. The the bars till your knuckles and supple on the bike. If you grip centre of gravity low, pedals turn white, you’ll crash. Keep your elbows and knees. Chin up centred all the way, and bend the need forward momentum so looking at your chosen line. You approach at a fast walking pace.

If you grip the bars ‘til your knuckles turn white, you’ll crash... Obstacle If you are going slower than a the fast walking pace the bike will hit go to m rocks and lack the momentu don’t over them. If you hit a large rock lunge panic. The forks will compress and the you forward similar to going over the keep g enin bars! To stop both happ the with front light and be aggressive go, bike putting it were you want it to your push back on the bars and drop . If bike the of third rear weight into the er gath to start and you are descending s, zone ing brak too much speed, look for t fron the but don’t snatch the brakes or will wash away from you. Worst case scrub scenario, use a little back brake to to l tura unna feel off the speed. It will only carry speed over rocks but it’s the e issu way. Remember the basics from ’t don one - look ahead, stay relaxed and focus on the front wheel. Don’t allow you your leading foot to drop down or s. rock the on s will catch the crank arm

Exit

e into link up the next part of the trail. Mov Like all the skills the exit is key to y read and set 4-5 metres in front and get the bike the middle third of the bike, look why Or tion. rmine the speed line and body posi to go. The terrain in front will dete perfect! es mak tice Prac line. go on a different not turn round and have another

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ADVANCED:

NORTH SHORE

obstacles require full commitment. need to mentally prepare as all the You ter. mas to skills fying the circus! satis t like watching the Wall of Death at North shore is one of the mos g to slide off! Imagine the wall ride goin are you as piste. ly off slow little a ride go wall It’s no good trying to over your local trails if you work. You will find North shore all d woo the to vouch to here stick not you am e I mor joy. the and The more speed, like to share their pride they are a secretive bunch but they ed warn Be ers. is. build ably trail prob l it loca gy Speak to the of all structures. If it looks dod so make sure you test the strength er, so don’t think it’s to for the quality of all North shores, or a paint which feels like sand pap wire ken chic in ed coat be may ss acro e Some of the wood work you com knee pads... cool for school to wear elbow and

Wall Rides

Approach Pick your line and look at your entry point. If you have seamless transitions keep your weight low and in the middle third of the bike. Centre your pedals a metre from the obstacle with your leading foot forward, and keep your rolling speed. Don’t pre-load the bike yet as you need to be on the obstacle and don’t pull the brakes or you’ll unsettle the bike. Start to look towards your exit. As soon as both wheels make contact don’t be afraid to start to lean with the bike. For your first few runs to build your confidence visualise a line taking you through the shallow part of the wall in a U shape.

Obstacle

d in the your body mass low and positione Lean away from the wall, keeping all the pace ing jogg fast a the momentum to keep centre of the bike. You need to have s the pres com will als ped le push down on the bars and way through the obstacle. A gent few first your For t. grip. Look towards your exit poin bike into the wall giving you more . wall the of half on the top runs take it easy. The aim is to get

Exit

move into the back third of mass in the same position and low near the exit. Keep your centre shal me beco to and knees and start will p ram The issue one. Relax, bend the elbows like the one shown, think back to drop ll sma a is there If You will be exit. the ther. for of the bike ready t end so both wheels land toge bike leaves the ramp hold the fron the of t fron the As . bike the of obstacle. move into the rear third now is to keep the flow for the next your exit 4-5 metres away. The trick carrying a lot of speed so look at

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ramps & table tops

Tricks & Tips

Approach

p entry ramp will end in tears. g to get a pedal turn in on the stee Tryin top. table the onto get to d speed for your ability You need the rolling spee third. You will find a comfortable red and body weight in the middle cent als ped your keep h table top look roac the app As you press. Once you can see on the up ramp as the forks will com light bike the of t fron ramp and the p Kee with practice. If there is a slight lip between the edges or you will fall off the edge! the over look ’t Don . acle obst the towards the end of jump the gaps in a later issue. table top let it roll. We will learn to

Obstacle ing out of So we’re on the top. If you are runn al of ped turns on forward momentum grab a couple gravity low. Don’t the table top. Keep your centre of h the exit ramp, look over the edge. As you approac you see your as soon keep your pedals centred. As up. Think end to t run out, focus on where you wan your body weight into back to issue one. Start to move the back third.

Exit

off the brakes, unless Move into the back third and keep . Use all the tips from issue you have the control to feather them want to go, low centre of one, heels down, looking where you of speed. Scrub it off once off the gravity. The bike will gather a lot middle third of the bike. down ramp and move back into the

■ Ireland’s most qualified coach and guide, Dave Youngs has over 15 years experience in the field. Dave holds the MIAS Level 6 Coaching Qualification, endorsed by the CTC and Association of British Cycling Coaches and is a qualified First Aid and map reading instructor. Youngs MTB Instruction have recently been working with a number of high profile European holiday companies and local activity centres to ensure mountain bike standards are maintained and Dave has also been training local Down Hill champions wanting to make the transition to coaching and guiding.

In issue 3: Wet roots, wheelies, Bunnyhops and Speed Jumps www.uberdogmagazine.co.uk

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downhill

Thrills&spills Pictures from the 2010 Irish Down Hill NPS

Alex Nowotymski Under 16 rider Daniel Wolfe Winner of the Elite Class at Cahir, round one

Dale McMullan Chain Reaction Cycles

Darren Quille on his way to 10th place in Elite in round one at Cahir

Derek Davoren Sport rider

Donough O’Brien Junior

ROUND ONE: 3-4 APRIL, SCARRAGH WOODS, CAHIR, CO. TIPPERARY A little rain doesn’t stop dedicated downhillers as the first round of the Irish DH NPS proved. Almost 180 riders battled it out along a 2-minute track for podium positions in their category while spectators soaked up the Easter Sunday sunshine.

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downhill Michael Cowan Chain Reaction Cycles Colin Ross on his way to 3rd place in Elite in round one at Cahir

The final jump in Cahir was apopular vantage point for obvious reasons

Colin O’Leary, Senior

Meave Baxter winning the Woman’s class at Cahir

ROUND TWO: 17-18 APRIL, ROSSACROONALOO, KILLARNEY, CO KERRY Sunshine and a dry midge-free course encouraged almost 150 riders to sign up for the second round of the Irish DH NPS. ROUND THREE: 1-2 MAY, CLASHNACRONA WOODS, DUNMANWAY, CO. CORK May Day madness saw some surprise results as the big boys battled it out for top spots against a challenging course.

THE EYES HAVE IT: Robin Peile, Junior

log onto www.IrishDH.com for full race details and results 28

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Tools for the Job the right It’s all well and good wanting to get out on your bike, but do you have g options... pedals to get you where you want to go? Dave Youngs looks at the bikin ountain Bikes haven’t changed

shops run demo days where you can try

you change the bars and stem and move

that much over the last 25

different models. Let’s be honest, who in

the saddle around on the rails (we will

years. Head angles, bottom

their normal state of mind would spend

cover bike set-up in issue three). Any

bracket heights and geometry have all

2k on a bike they haven’t ridden just

bike dealer worth their salt will spend

been tweaked but the basics are still

because a glossy magazine said it’s a

time setting the bike up correctly for you.

there; Chain, pedals, and wheels!.

great bike?

Don’t buy into an image. If you go and

We each have different length arms,

watch the local downhill races and get

steel or alloy - whatever takes your

legs and torsos and getting the correct

all excited that’s great, but be realistic

fancy, but remember you need your

frame size for your body is a must.

and learn your core skills on a hard tail

heart and lungs to pedal the thing!

Remember that all bikes are different

or short travel suspension bike. Down

You can go and buy carbon fibre,

with all manufactures using slightly

hillers train on hard tails and every day

while now, again this is down to

different sizings. You will be amazed

bikes as well as 8 inch travel beasts.

personal preference and most bike

what happens to a bikes geometry when

Suspension has been around for a

Do it all Hard Tail... The word ‘hard tail’ comes from the rear triangle or rear of the bike where there is no suspension. The front end will have suspension forks with varying amounts of travel from 100150mm. The ideal bike for your local trails will be something like the one in the photo with 140mm front forks a short stem and wide riser bars. The seasoned rider will be as quick on one of these as the rider on a full suspension bike. The head angle will be a little slacker than a X-Country race bike. Fit some disc brakes and big rotors and send it on your local trails. PRICE: £400 - £2,000 WEIGHT: 25 - 32 Lbs

X-Country Race Bike... To the untrained eye the do-it-all hard tail and X Country race bike will look similar. The X Country race bike will have a longer stem and narrow bars. The front forks will probably have 100mm of travel. The top tube of the frame will also be slightly longer. When you sit on the X-Country bike it will feel a lot more stretched out. It will feel quicker than the hard tail and weigh a lot less. Carbon fibre models are becoming more popular. PRICE: £300 upwards - How deep is your wallet? WEIGHT: Weight 19lbs - 28lbs.

Full Suspension... Full suspension means just that - suspension on the front and rear of the bike. I could fill an entire magazine describing all the models and linkage points, but for the minute I’ll concentrate on the amount of travel each model has. The rest is personal choice. Five inch travel bikes or 140mm seem to be popular at the moment. They are at home bombing down Cave Hill or pedaling up it. If you make a mistake or two they will get you out of trouble and will flatter your dodgy line choice. Short stems, riser bars and big tyres will let you get away with your annual holiday to the alps. You will see them all over Scottish trail centres as well as NI. PRICE: £900 - £4,000 WEIGHT: 26 - 33lbs

Downhill Bikes... Full suspension beasts with lots of travel. The forks are referred to as Triple Crown and the rear suspension is a great big spring. Unless you have the lungs of an elephant and veins as flowing as your garden hose pipe you aren’t going to pedal one of these uphill. If you can, or do, it will be unpleasant. The head angle will be very slack, the tyres big and the rotors on the back and front will be like your dinner plate. That said, you will have great fun on the DH bike and if this is your bag, a few companies run up-lift days. The clue is in the name - take a lift to the top and pedal back down. PRICE: £1200 - £5,000 WEIGHT: 36 -.44 Lbs

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ieer Pioxw P Proving that you don’t need to be big to get noticed, local nia downhill mountain bike racer Meave Baxter ripped up the track in Slove and with last year to become the reigning Ladies Masters European Champion glory… a new custom built bike for 2010 she looks set for further podium

tanding just 5’ 2 tall, Meave

was in Mallow in Cork. “Michelle McMullan

winning the Irish National Championships,

Baxter hasn’t let her height

was the reigning Irish champion at the time

with numerous titles under her belt now, but

stop her climbing the podium

and she was delighted to have another girl

it’s the international scene where she has

to local and international

racing with her,” Meave recalls. “She was so

really made her mark, coming second in the

success in downhill racing

nice to me, walking me through the track

World Masters Championship in 2008 and winning the European’s last year.

since she first took up the sport five years ago.

For the first time Meave’s getting to ride a custom built bike that’s right for her size, supplied by OC Tuning

Rostrevor born, Meave spent her

childhood growing up in the mountains and this self confessed

“I was really pleased with my performance at the Worlds,” she reveals. “Winning second place really took

tom boy followed in her brother’s

me by surprise. I was up against over

footsteps developing a passion for

30 women in the category all of which

bikes at a young age.

were world class acts and to be fair the girl that beat me was racing her

“Being from Rostrevor I grew up on

local track.”

the side of a mountain,” she smiles.

Spurred on by her success in 2008

“We had horses too, so I was used to falling off and getting bumps and

and encouraged by fellow biker Tina

bruises. My brother got into bikes first

Murray, Meave headed to Slovenia

and as I did everything he did, I quickly

last year for the MTB European

followed, the only problem was that I

Championships, returning to Ireland

got all his hand-me-downs which were

as the gold winner of the Ladies

always a wee bit too big!”

Master Class. No small feat considering she was racing

An Ulster three-way in 1998 was the first race Meave remembers doing. It

unfamiliar tracks on a bike that was

combined downhill, slalom and cross

technically too big for her. Talking about the European tracks

country and Meave tackled the Leitrim, Lodge downhill course riding her brother

Meave says: “There’s a big

Liam’s 18”bike which was huge. “I

difference in racing in Ireland and Europe. Generally the European

managed to wreck myself twice, but I still really enjoyed it,” she recalls. “After that I

and giving me lots of tips. Then on the

tracks are on ski slopes so they are much

spent more time doing cross country than

second run I beat her by a fraction of a

faster. We are very good in Ireland at doing

anything else, although you’d often find me

second and she swore she would never

roots and muck and wet and steep. Our

following Liam on the downhill tracks on my

teach me anything again. It went from there

tracks are not very fast but quite technical.

cross country bike.”

really…”

Whereas in Europe they are very good at

Encouraged by her brother to compete in downhill racing, Meave’s first official race

Since she started racing Meave has dominated the Irish scene, consistently

going fast in a straight line so there’s a real challenge there for Irish riders.”

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mountain bike

tâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s i e m r Fo g n i d n i f about orderline that ben betwe ute fear absol rill... and th

www.uberdogmagazine.co.uk

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mountain bike

there, but there’s some new blood on the

Worlds in 2008. During my practice run I

Champion Meave is still conscious of the

scene now - there’s a few girls from Dublin

had a bad crash and smacked my sternum

fresh young talent coming through on the

who consistently race now, which is great.”

off the bike frame. I heard this crack and

Despite being reigning European

local scene and believes she faces some tough competition in 2010. “Natalie Jeddah from Dublin is giving me

With the average Irish downhill race

everyone assumed I had been winded and

than ten of those being girls, there’s room

was over-reacting.

a run for my money big time, but I’m not

for improvement in the female front and

complaining as it’s brilliant to have that

Meave is optimistic that things will change.

sense of competitiveness The fact I did so

thought I had broken something but

attracting up to 200 riders and with less

“When I started racing I had to wear

“So I rested for a while with ice on my chest and then got on my bike and did the race in a time that won me second place. I

well at the Euros is because Natalie woke

men’s gear but now you can get girls outfits

got home and was so sore that no one

me up and made me realise I couldn’t rest

which is great because I’m a real magpie.

could touch me. People were giving me

on my laurels.

Hopefully we’ll see even more women more

hugs when they heard I had come second

coming into the sport,” she continues.

and I was nearly crying. I was working in

kicked my ass by about six seconds which

“There seems to be a perception that girls

A&E at the time and the consultant

made me think I had to really up my game.

don’t do downhill, but it’s not a real macho

wondered what was wrong with me. I told

Natalie is really fit and pedals hard, whereas

sport. It takes guts, but for me it’s the

him what had happened and he x-rayed me

I tend to sit back and let the bike do all the

downhill bits that are the fun bits!”

and it turned out I had broken my sternum.

“At the first race in Cahir in 2009 she

work, but now I’ve started peddling and I’m training harder than ever.”

While downhill racing may not be macho, it’s still incredibly dangerous and it takes

It just goes to show what adrenaline can do.

With only a handful of women in Ireland

guts to charge down a steep mountainside,

“Apart from that, I broke my ankle in

competitively racing, Meave knows them all

but despite several injuries Meave remains

Vancouver and I’ve broken my nose, but

well and is familiar with their individual

undeterred. “For me jumps are the scariest

generally I’ve been reasonably lucky.”

racing styles. “Every race I look around and

part, but through trial and error I’ve learnt to

wonder who’s gonna turn up. A few years

know what I’m capable off,” she explains.

ago you could hardly have filled the podium because there were so few girls competing. There were races where I was the only girl

“I’ve had my fair share of spills and injuries, the most surprising was at the

“Experience also makes a difference,” she reveals. “I’ve had a few crashes and I know the reason I crashed is that I’ve doubted myself. Now I know that if I have any doubt in my head, or if I can’t see myself doing the jump, I shouldn’t do it. I’ve learnt to trust my instinct - if my gut reaction is I can’t do this, then I won’t do it.” A practising GP, Meave is quick to admit that juggling a job and her sport can be demanding at times, especially during race season: “The practice I work in are very flexible and understanding but it can be tough. This weekend I’m working 'til 6pm and then hitting the road for the drive to Killarney, racing on Saturday and Sunday and then driving back for work on Monday morning which is draining. But you get into the buzz of it once you’re there. I get through it by sleeping a lot and I try and train at lunch time when I’m not too knackered.”

For me jumps are the scariest part, but through trial and error I’ve learnt to know what I’m capable off...

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mountain bike

The longer nights mean Meave is able to enjoy evening bike rides with friends and family and on a Thursday night you’ll find her and a group of fellow down hillers ripping up the Mournes: “Now that the clocks have changed there’s a gang of us that go out once a week which includes Glynn O’Brien. Glynn really encourages me along and helps me go faster. We’d get to the top of a downhill section and he’d give me a ten second head start. Believe me if you know Glynn is chasing you down, you pedal fast! I generally crash and he laughs his head off at me. It’s scary but it’s motivating because I don’t want him to beat me.” Revealing that some of her best moments have been charging The two sides of Meave - ABOVE: On a Thursday night you’ll find Meave and a group of fellow down hillers ripping up the Mourn es, and LEFT: After winning the gold in Sloven ia last year

down a hill with friends and family, Meave explains that not all her friends understand what she does:

Empowered by her new

“I showed my best friend a picture

set of wheels Meave has

of my new bike and she said, ‘I know I should be really impressed

high hopes for the season

and I’ll say I’m really impressed,

ahead, but the racing

but I’ve no idea what I’m looking

calendar is looking

at.’ They just don’t get it. They’ve

problematically hectic as she

no concept of what I do. They

explains: “It’s a very tight

watched the Break the Cycle

timescale this year. The Euros

DVD and a few of them were like

are in France the second

‘right, why are you doing that?’

week in August and the Worlds are in Brazil at the end

But then again they’ve always known me to

custom built bike that’s right for her

be that sort of person. I like pushing myself

size -let’s just say she’s pretty hyped about

of August. So they’re back to back, which

to the edge.”

the whole thing. “My new bike is unreal,”

is going to be difficult. I’d love to go to

she enthuses. “It’s totally awesome and I’m

Brazil, but in terms of bringing the bike out

overflowing with motivation and

still getting used to it. Because I’m so small

there, I’m just not sure, the logistics are a

competitiveness, a characteristic she says

I’ve never ridden a full-on downhill bike as

nightmare and it will be expensive.”

has always been part of her personality.

I’ve struggled to get something to fit me,

“I’m fiercely competitive, I would compete

but for this bike Solid have cut down their

Meave has another important diary date

for anything. All you need to say is ‘I’ll time

small frame to make a bike just for me - it’s

this summer- her wedding to fiancé John

you’ and I’d be away without realising it. I’m

a pixie frame,” she laughs.

on the 10th July: “My mother has decreed

With a real drive to succeed Meave is

unreal.

Whether she makes it to Brazil or not,

“I don’t know exactly what’s been done

I’m not allowed to ride a mountain bike for

“I must just have a little want in me, a

to the bike but it fits me and it’s just deadly.

a month before hand,” she reveals. “But

craving for danger. When I was in college I

I’m not 100% used to it yet. There’s been a

I’ve promised to wear my full body armour

got into rock climbing big time, but that

few times I’ve gone over stuff and I’ve

and anyway, the dress is long so my legs

went a bit far. I was putting myself in life

cringed that the bike wasn’t going to take it

are covered should anything happen to

threatening situations just to get that buzz

but it’s just sucked it all up. On my other

them!”

which was insane. For me it’s about

bikes I was always avoiding certain things

finding that border line between absolute

because I knew the bike couldn’t handle it.

appearance on the day either as Meave

fear and thrill.”

And don’t rule out the bike making an

Now I’m getting to hit things at full speed

reveals: “There’s a trail that goes all the

For 2010 Meave has secured a new

and I’m thinking ‘wow this is class’. The

way down the mountain that pretty much

sponsorship deal with OC Tuning and for

custom bike has transformed riding for

ends at the back of the church, so I’m

the first time ever she’s getting to ride a

me.”

tempted!” she laughs.

www.uberdogmagazine.co.uk

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X-Country

X-Men Wars To be fair, it was men, women and children that battled it out at the Belfast... Ulster (rnd 1) and Irish NPS XC (rnd 3) mtb races on the 8th May in

he first Ulster XC race of 2010

clouds, the rain stayed away and the

and the 3rd round of the Irish

atmosphere remained festive and family

XC NPS were jointly hosted in

friendly. Crowds gathered at the finish line to

the stunning setting of Belfast's

geer on the riders across all categories,

Sir Thomas and Lady Dixon

although our suspicions are that it was

Park. The three mile circuit hid a new

Cycling Ireland's free tea and sandwiches

surprise at every turn and even the fittest

that were the real pull! Not afraid to get

competitors were spotted panting on that

down and dirty, uberdog's camera team,

final climb to the finish line after lapping the

Robert Doherty and Andy McCombe

course six times. Despite threatening

captured a few of the best bits.

034-035 XC Lady Dixon Pages.qxp

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X-Country

For future Ulster XC results visit www.ulsterxc.com For Irish XC NPS news visit www.irishxcmtb.com For more pictures to see and download visit www.uberdogmagazine.co.uk Want to have a go? visit www.cyclingulster.com to find a club in your area

www.uberdogmagazine.co.uk

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Japmmed U Northern Irelandâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Only indoor skate and bmx park, Unit 13, played host to two of the best jams to happen in recent times, as always we were there, camera in hand...

UNIT 13 were proud to organise and host a skateboarding competition for the younger generation of skaters today and called it 'Mini Man Jam'. They felt this type of event was needed as the standard of skating today in the under 16 age bracket is very high. They also like to let the young folk have the park to themselves for a day and make them feel like they are the 'big guys'. This event has been run three times now and has only grown in popularity. The team at Unit 13 always hand craft a trophy for the winner and get all entrants in the competition to sign it so the the winner really does have a 'one off' treasured prize to be proud of. o

www.uberdogmagazine.co.uk

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skate & BMX jam

MARCH 20TH saw the successful “Good Times BMX Jam” hit Unit 13. Asked about this, Matt Gillespie, co-founder of Unit 13 said “I always look forward to organising a BMX jam for Unit 13. BMX is one of those strange sports where everyone just seems to have fun and enjoy each others company. The Unit 13 BMX jams have grown in popularity and regularly attract international visitors and friends from abroad. The scene in Northern Ireland particularly has an amazing ‘no pressure’ and easy going atmosphere at jams and that’s why I think they are so popular. o

See and download loads more photos from these jams at www.uberdogmagazine.co.uk www.uberdogmagazine.co.uk

038-041 Al Meannie Pages.qxp

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t d e t c i Add

r e g n a D nal acclaim when he tio na er int n wo ie nn Me Al er rf su Big wave ve. Not afraid to face up wa ed rd co re t es rg la ’s nd la Ire ed surf h and reveals why at de th wi ing dic t ou ab s lk ta Al to his fears, e new Hawaii… he thinks Ireland could soon be th Pictures by Gary McCall & Aaron Pierce

I kept trying to compete, even when I

aterskiing at the age of

international circuits but I’m 16 stone and

six, surfing when he was

6ft 5 which is big for a surfer, so for me to

moved back here at the age of 23 I

nine and competing at

surf small waves is really quite difficult, “

competed on the pro tour and flew around

the age of 14, it seemed

he explains.

the world, but my heart wasn’t really in it and I guess I just drifted out of it.”

that Al Mennie was born to surf. By 16

“I had to do a lot of training to surf

years old Al was winning contests and

small waves against guys half my size

when it came time for him to go to go

and while I did achieve, I could only go so

found a new wave to surf. One that was

university Al chose Plymouth so he was

far. To surf world level was out of my

bigger, bolder and altogether better - the

well positioned to compete in the British

league, I knew I couldn’t make the

big wave.

Pro Surf Tour.

standard, every contest was demanding

His dedication paid off and in 2001

so much more than I was capable off.

Drifting out of small wave contests, Al

“I remember when I was 13 watching a video that showed surfers in Mavericks in

when he won the British Student Title, Al was the first surfer from Northern Ireland to ever win a British title. Impressive stuff, but behind the success, Al’s dedication was starting to wane: “I finished 5th in the BPSTour and started to look at the

Al tackles a big wave off the coast of Ireland

www.uberdogmagazine.co.uk

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surf

and then went home, I just couldn’t do it, I

Settling in Portrush, Al borrowed some

couldn’t get the courage to paddle into

money, bought a boat and armed himself

one of the waves, I was just too scared.

with admiralty charts, marking all the spots

Your natural instinct is to get away from

were geographically and physically

danger, but I’ve learnt to put up with the

capable of having the potential to produce

fear. It’s always there, but I’ve learnt how

big waves off the coast.

to manage it and push past it.” Experiencing the waves in the

“I went out in the boat and paddled out to the biggest waves that had ever been

legendary Mavericks for himself lead Al to

seen in Ireland at that stage,” he reveals.

a realisation that the big waves he had

“Soon I realised that the potential was

been surfing in Ireland were something

bigger than anything I could physically

very similar, sparking a determination to

paddle out to so I sold the boat and

uncover Ireland as the next ‘big wave

bought a jet ski and looked for a tow

capital’.

partner to work with which was a whole new experience for me.”

Your natural instinct is to get away from danger, but I’ve learnt to put up with the fear. It’s always there, but I’ve learnt how to manage it and push past it

who had the will or inclination to tackle the monster big waves, Al found a tow partner in Andrew Cotton, a friend based in England, who he has been towin surfing with from the age of 23. “Partnering up with someone was difficult,” confides Al. “Surfing is an individual sport

Mavericks,” and he gave me his blessing, so that probably

Unable to find any Irish surfers

“I realised that the same sort of waves

and I was used to working on my own but

existed here but hadn’t really been

if I wanted to surf the big waves I needed

discovered yet,” he begins. “A few people

a tow partner. The whole shift to tow-in

travelled to America where he came face

had seen some big waves and noticed the

was a dramatic change for me. I had to

to face with the formidable force of 40 feet

potential but I realised there was more

deal with working with a partner, which

high waves, an experience which he

than just potential - the waves were the

causes friction to start with; I needed to

recalls as being totally terrifying: “The first

same, they just hadn’t been documented

handle a jet ski and get to terms with the

time we went to Mavericks I sat for eight

yet, so that became my ambition, to track

new equipment such as the 10kg lead-

hours in the water staring at the waves

down the big waves in Ireland.”

weighted board. No one else was doing

spurred me on a lot.” That same year Al fulfiled his dream and

www.uberdogmagazine.co.uk

038-041 Al Meannie Pages.qxp

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surf

tow-in here at the time, so I really felt I was

were making headline news by riding

stepping out in the dark.”

these massive waves in Ireland.”

“You only get two days notice which is hard work!” Al exclaims. “It’s not like

Soon the boys were being invited to Big

football when you know you have a match

requires the surfer to be towed out on a

Wave contests where the waves were high

in two months at a set venue and you can

rope, waterski style and while the jet ski

and the competition was even higher with

train for that. We can’t do that, we have to

drives into the wave and comes out of it,

prize money hitting £50k.

be in top shape all year round. I need to

Tow-in surf is a two-man sport and

the surfer is dropped down into the wave.

“We were the first Europeans to be

know I can hold my breath for two minutes

“Basically you are put into the wave rather

invited to these events which was quite an

under water; that I’m physically strong

than paddling into it which allows you to

honour. Our first contest was in Chile for

enough to be rag dolled, and that I’ve got

tackle much bigger waves,” Al explains.

the World Tow-In Championships,” Al

optimum balance and core strength,

recalls. “We got to meet all the guys who

because I need to respond to the call and

now, Al and Andrew share a like-

were our idols, the surfers that we’d seen

be confident that I’m fit for the challenge

mindedness and trust that has enabled

in videos and magazines but to be honest

whatever the day.”

them to achieve some impressive results.

it was a bit of an anti-climax. We realised

Having surfed together for seven years

Training is a daily ritual for Al and due to

they weren’t any better than us, the only

the extreme danger of his sport his focus

understands the way I think. It just takes a

difference was that they had all this hype

goes beyond physical fitness as he

thumbs up or a nod and we know what

and media surrounding them whereas

reveals: “We train to be physically fit -

each other’s thinking. People wonder how

coming from here we don’t have that sort

running, boxing, swimming, cycling,

we do this as a team when we live in two

of support behind us.

weights - ordinary stuff, but then I also

Talking about ‘Cotty’ Al says: “he

different countries, but I can’t think of

“Although we finished 10th in that

simulate danger situations, for example if

anyone I know better. I talk to him more

contest, which we were happy with at the

I’m hit by a huge wave and held under

times on the phone a day than my

time, I’m now thinking there’s no reason

water. I’ll weight train holding my breath,

girlfriend,” he laughs.

why we can’t win some of these contests

or I’ll swim a length of the pool with no air

in the future.”

in my lungs. I train for the worse case

With an able partner in tow Al set about conquering his big ambitions, returning to

With Big Wave contests being called at

scenarios at all times. We also train in

the Mavericks many times to build up his

just a few days notice due to the extreme

rescue techniques. I’m training for survival

experience, surfing big waves at home

weather requirements, cancellations are

in seas that are life threatening at all times.

and abroad. “Soon Cotty and I were

common and although Al and Andrew

I’m dealing with life and death situations

getting recognised by the rest of the world

have been invited to take part in over 10

every time I surf, so safety is paramount.”

- basically the guys that had inspired us

contests, they’ve only physically managed

were starting to recognise us because we

to attend two.

“We use rescue techniques every time we go out on the big surf, “ Al continues.

Al makes a splash in Ireland

www.uberdogmagazine.co.uk

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Ireland could well be the new Hawaii, I’d like to think that in the next few years we’ll really make our mark...

“It’s inevitable that one of us will fall or get hurt. At the start we feared that and tried to avoid it, but by holding back we weren’t really achieving very much. Now we just go for it and accept that things go wrong. Crazy stuff has happened to us, but it’s all part of it. The bigger the waves we surf, the higher the consequences are.” At the time of our meeting Al’s partner Andrew was out injured, having suffered

never had that. I’ve always pushed

recorded in Ireland there. There’s lots of

among other things, a torn ACL and looks

through to find the big waves, no one else

spots off the County Clare coast too,

to be out for a while. Not deterred, Al is

in the north seems even interested.”

Ireland has a whole range of big wave

seizing the opportunity to promote his new

Although tow-in is a fairly new

locations to suit depending on the weather conditions.”

autobiography Surfing Mennie Waves and

phenomenon in Ireland, Al has high hopes

focus on ‘paddling in’. “Normally you only

that due to the number of big waves that

paddle into waves about 40ft, after that it’s

can be found off the coast, the island will

(at its peak Al and Andrew surfed three

too dangerous and you need to get towed

soon make its mark on the international

big swells in two oceans in seven days),

in,” he explains. “A few guys around the

scene. “Hawaii is regarded as the big wave

Al is optimistic for the months ahead and

world are trying to push that limit and I’m

capital of the world but Ireland could well

is focused on staying in shape and being

going to try to push the bar here. If I can

be the new Hawaii,” he enthuses. “We’ve

prepped for the next big wave call. “This

paddle into waves up to the 50ft mark that

got massive waves that can rival anything

is only the start for me, “ he says. “I’m

would be good.”

in Hawaii and I’d like to think that in the

only now getting to the level where I feel

next few years we’ll really make our mark.”

comfortable. Experience I think is the key.

Whether he’s paddling or towing, Al can be sure of one thing, he’ll be the only one

Dedicated to his cause of finding the

Having just finished a very busy season

Andrew and I have the confidence to go

doing it as both sports only have a handful

best big waves off our coast, Al has

out there and tackle the big waves, we

of devotees in Ireland. “Surfers have a

mapped several hot spots and continues

know what to expect and what we need

natural fear of big waves - most people

to seek out more. “There are a few big

to do to win, We’ve got the ability to get a

avoid them and look for somewhere

waves off the north coast but those are

big win, all we need now is the

sheltered. They have a threshold, but I’ve

rare, once a year surfs. Mullaghmore head

opportunity.” o

in Sligo is a good spot which we surf a lot,

Follow Al’s big wave journey

in fact we surfed the biggest wave ever

on www.almennie.com

COMPETITION überdog has two signed copies of Al’s autobiography, ‘Surfing Mennie Waves’ to give away. To enter the competition visit www.uberdogmagazine.co.uk and answer the following question: Q. Who is Al Mennies tow partner?

www.uberdogmagazine.co.uk

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044-045 Kayak Pages.qxp

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Kayaking

No Water? Blackwater! Benburb Kayak aficionado Iain Walker reviews the blackwater river at

For this issue we take a look at a section

o, what does a frustrated

There are some pretty good reasons to

kayaker do when it hasn’t

choose answer 3. For one thing the risk of

of river that is popular with kayakers of

rained for several weeks?

getting in trouble in a retentive stopper is

many abilities. The River Blackwater at

Sensible answer 1: Get the

greatly reduced. That’s not to say that all

Benburb gives a number of interesting

bike out and enjoy some

risks are removed. Less water equals more

features at around grade 2-3 and

trails in the sun. Sensible answer 2: Take

rocks so there can be greater potential for

represents a great training ground at a

the kayak out surfing (see our last issue).

getting knocked about if you capsize or if

variety of water levels. Our visit was at the

But what if your biking skills left you

Andy swims, and for pinning. Back to the

end of a fairly long dry spell this April and

once Dad took off the stabilisers and

plus side, it’s usually easy to find the right

the level was just enough to still make it

there’s no surf? Answer 3 ... Find a river

line, eddies will be large and easy to make,

worthwhile. Like the better known Bann

that you like running in high water and see

and it will generally be easier to see any

and Lagan the river has a large enough

how different it is when low.

risks in advance.

catchment area to hold water reasonably well so it can still be good craic after many other rivers have fallen too low to be viable. The benefit of this spot is that within a very short section you get a large weir with a choice of steep or ramped slides, the well known ‘triple-drop’ weir which gets very interesting at high levels for anyone but an experienced paddler in a suitable boat, and a further weir which forms a nice fast bouncy drop through a wave. There

Less water equals more rocks so there can be greater potential for getting knocked about if you capsize...

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Page 45

are also a number of small but playable waves and features soon after. All of this can be run several times on a visit just by carrying your boats back to the start. No need for car ferrying unless you want to add in the mostly flat section after the footbridge to the stone bridge at the main car park. ENJOY: running the triple-drop at different water levels to improve your skills and river reading. BEWARE: powerful stoppers in the weirs at very high water levels and lots of fisherpeople casting hooks into the river in good weather. DIFFICULTY: Grade 2-3. Beginner friendly if with an experienced leader (dependent on water level).

hundred metres and turn right down a

NOTE: it is possible to put in at the

LOCATION: Just outside Benburb village.

small lane. Find a parking spot that wonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t

Benburb Valley Heritage Centre further up

With the Estate entrance on your right,

cause any obstruction and you can then

the road but itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s not usually recommended

leave the village and take the first right turn

walk to the river through the farm gate. A

to run the small horseshoe shaped weir

which leads over a small stone bridge

path will take you to the first weir or you

upstream of the mill as it can be

(take-out option). Continue for a few

can put-in above the triple-drop.

unpleasantly retentive. o

The triple drop weir in low water. High water can see the little derelict hut totally covered by the flow

046 River Review Page.qxp

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River Review

Teenage Kicks:

Shimna River Words: Andy McMurray

t hasn’t rained for what feels like forever.

forgiven, given the rewarding run it delivers

However now it is absolutely tipping it

when the conditions are right.

down, and you’ve got your paddling buddy on the telephone, ready to plan

The get ins are best decided on after an

The ford at 301-306 is the start point for 6kms of consistent gradient white water. From here until Priests Bridge the paddler

assessment of how much water is in the

is constantly looking downhill. The only

river. Its head waters between Ott and

point the river looks flat is on the horizon

Loughshannagh provide a bobsleigh-

line of one of the many drops along the

Mourne contain some fantastic streams to

esque run in heavy floods. After Fofanny

way! Never less than grade 3, regularly

get washed down providing all the

reservoir, a lack of gradient makes the next

grade 4 and occasionally a grade 5. This

entertainment you can handle. The Shimna

2kms avoidable.

river does not disappoint. o

some badly needed excitement. In these conditions the Mountains of

River is the local classic. It has enough volume to make it feel like a real river while also being easily accessible by road. It is perhaps easier to start with a definite, that is the take out. Priest Bridge on the Tullybranigan Road. 360-313. Get out immediately after the bridge on river left. The Shimna River needs consistent recent rain to paddle and its run off is extremely quick, so if it’s not raining as you leave the house, you may want another option. But the rivers fickle nature is easily

the rivers fickle nature is easily forgiven, given the rewarding run it delivers...

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049 CLUB PAGE lisburn paddlers.qxp

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Page 49

WHO IS THE CLUB FOR?

touring and flat water) and canoe slalom.

on the BCU (UKCC) Coaching Scheme

Lisburn City Paddlers is for everyone over

The emphasis at present is on river

who will encourage new members to

18 who wants to be part of a canoe club

running, sheltered flat-water paddling and

embark upon the BCU Star Test

and we plan to extend our membership by

surf. We have plans to introduce pool-

achievement awards.

introducing a junior section in the future.

training sessions in the very near future. River conditions will largely dictate club

WHEN DOES THE CLUB MEET?

WHAT DOES THE CLUB DO?

sessions, as we will not introduce

Every Saturday at 9.30 am at Glenmore

Kayaking, open canoeing, freestyle and

beginners to the sport if rivers are in flood.

Activity Centre and Tuesday nights (May-

slalom competitions

Safety is a club priority and we will not

September)

compromise on that.

SUMMARISE WHAT THE CLUB IS ALL ABOUT

There are few white water rivers in Northern Ireland that at least one of our members

ARE THERE ANY CLUB MEMBERSHIP FEES?

LCP was formed in October 2008 by a

hasn't paddled.

ÂŁ20 per annum

small group of paddlers from the Lisburn

A few members have paddled in the

and Greater Belfast areas. We are fully

French Alps and the Julian Alps in Slovenia

WHAT IS THE CLUB ETHOS?

affiliated to our governing body The Canoe

on summer trips.

To develop and improve members' skills

Association of Northern Ireland (CANI).

and experience and to introduce others to

the sport including whitewater kayaking,

IS CLUB COACHING AVAILABLE?

surfing, open Canadian canoeing (both

We have several coaches at various levels

Members are interested in most aspects of

canoe sport whilst making it safe and fun.

track them down at: Contact: chairman Graeme Larmour and Dangerous Dave Glenmore Activity Centre 43 Glenmore Drive, Hilden, Lisburn Email: Dave@lisburncitypaddlers.com Web: www.lisburncitypaddlers.com

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The d i s t n o r F Bottom Tu r for surf coach Iain Gilmore reveals why a solid bottom turn is essential

he bottom turn is by far the

the wave where you want your bottom turn

your next bottom turn. After some practice

most important move in

to end.

your bottom turns will be wired and you can

surfing. It is the foundation of a

Hold your line, keep your knees bent, and

good ride as it’s used every

when you come off the flats on to the

time you catch a wave, and

transition, shift most of your weight to your

every time you do a manoeuvre. Having a solid bottom turn is essential to improving other areas of your surfing. The first thing you need to do is catch a front side wave, stand up, and ride down the wave face with all the speed that you can muster. Ride to the bottom of the wave until you reach the flats, the area in front of the wave with no transition. As soon as you reach the flats, start your bottom turn so you don't lose any speed.

Having a solid bottom turn is essential to improving other areas of your surfing...

Bend your knees slightly, and lean on to

start leaning into them by putting your trailing hand in the water. As you can see there isn't that much to a good bottom turn, but attention to detail will allow you to generate a little extra speed which in turn will enable you to make all your manoeuvres faster and more radical. KEY POINTS: • START your bottom turn as soon as you get to the flats • DO NOT bury your feet under water during the bottom turn • CARRY your speed up the wave by bending your knees and putting pressure on your back foot o

your toe side edge to initiate the bottom

back leg. Push on your back foot in order to

turn. Be careful not to lean too far because

gain as much speed as possible while

■ Iain Gilmour is a qualified ISA

you will bury your feet under water, lose all

driving up the wave.

Surfing Coach and owns Adventure

your speed, and fall off your board. Your

To finish off a good bottom turn hit the lip

One Surf School in Donegal. He has

weight should be evenly distributed

hard, or do a powerful cutback. Once

over 28 years surfing experience in

between your front foot and your back foot

you've completed a manoeuvre at the top of

breaks all over the world.

and you should be focused on the part of

the wave continue down the line and start

STEP 1: catch a front side wave, stand up, and ride down the wave face with all the speed that you can muster

STEP 2: start your bottom turn so you don't lose any speed

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Surf

e iu d rn

surfing successâ&#x20AC;Ś

STEP 3: shift most of your weight to your back leg. Push on your back foot in order to gain as much speed as possible while driving up the wave

www.uberdogmagazine.co.uk

STEP 4: Once you've completed a manoeuvre at the top of the wave continue down the line and start your next bottom turn

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056-059 Wakeski Pages.qxp

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Wave s Don’t be fooled by the name, waveski has nothing to do with skiing and everything to do with having fun on the waves as Marty McCann explains…

Pictures courtesy of Conor Daly and Daveth Fox

o what is waveski? Well it

waves in the same manner as a stand-up

booties, have a paddle for obvious

really depends how you look

surfer and uses the same repertoire of

reasons and also stay safe with a helmet

at it. For some a waveski is

manoeuvres and techniques to surf the

depending on where and when you are

a surfboard that you sit on

wave to its full potential.

surfing. In the beginning it is also important to wear a leash to keep the waveski

and paddle a bit like a

escaping you on wiping out.

surf kayak. Essentially a waveski looks like

So what equipment do you need?

a fat surfboard with a seat, lap belt and

Compared to kayaking there is very little

same way as a surfboard. Firstly the foam

foot loops to keep the rider in contact with

gear required to enjoy this sport. You will

core is shaped by the ‘shaper ‘then

the board. The waveskier surfs ocean

need to stay warm with a wetsuit and

covered with two layers of fine fibreglass

kayak. For others it is a high performance

A waveski is constructed in much the

County Tyrone man Gerry McGlinchey, New Age World No.4

www.uberdogmagazine.co.uk

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Waveski

e ski Marty McCann south of Gisborne, New Zealand

www.uberdogmagazine.co.uk

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Waveski Three times world champ Matt Babarit enjoying a County Sligo set

cloth bonded together by epoxy resin. Then the fin boxes and belt foot loop attachments are added and glassed into place. Finally it is thoroughly sanded before a finishing coat is applied. Waveski’s are made specific to the rider’s requirements and needs. The volume distribution, length, width, sharpness of rails as well as the height, weight and ability of the surfer are all taken into consideration. A waveski can cost anything from a couple of hundred for a second hand one to around £1000 for a full custom made ski.

What’s the waveski scene in Ireland like? Waveskiing has seen a modest growth in Ireland over the last few years in comparison to France and Portugal. However, waveski surfers from Ireland have been representing their country in World and European Championship events since the 1980s and more recently at the World

Useful web links: www.oceanaddicts.com www.subgraviti.com www.paddlesurf.ie www.worldwaveski.com

Waveski Tour, a semi professional event hosted by the Association of World Waveski Professionals

Marty Raglan

www.uberdogmagazine.co.uk

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Waveski

(AWWP). In 2008 Ireland hosted the European championships at Easkey in Co Sligo.

Where can I go to participate locally? It’s no secret that the North and North West of Ireland has some great surf breaks. These vary from friendly beach

boüt ye?

it’s a mini interview a minterview !

an Waveski Marty McCann chats to Europe e… Surfing Champion Yannick Laouss

breaks to the more serious reef breaks.

I first met Yannick some years ago

In terms of learning you can make contact

when he lived in Portrush for a one

How does it feel to be the European Champion?

with other waveskiers and coaches

year study. Since then Yannick has

I was proud of myself. I spent one year

through www.paddlesurf.ie, who also run a

had a love for the country and the

in Ireland studying in Coleraine

competition league and some ‘come and

waves off the North and North West

University, so to win there was one of

try it days’ o

coast. Yannick was at home in the

my greatest pleasures.

French sea side village of Etel recovering from major surgery on his shoulder so I took the opportunity to ask him a few questions...

What skills do you believe you need to be a good waveskier? Anticipation and control of your

Name:

Yannick Laousse Age: 27

emotions, body and your board.

Describe your personality

What training do you do?

I like to enjoy the pleasure of the sea

I spend about four hours a day in the

and discovering new spots to practice

water. I also respect rest time and avoid

water sport. I don’t like big towns

junk food and alcohol.

where you fight to get a wave.

When did you first try waveskiing?

What would you say to someone who has never tried waveski?

I was 12, it was in Les Landes around

Try it and you will never give it up…

Hossegor in France. The waves were really good for beginners, 80 cm without wind, warm water and few

Diary Dates •Irish Open

9-10 October 2010 Easkey Co Sligo Ireland

•European Titles 20-24 May 2010 Brittany France •World Waveski Titles August 2011, Santa Cruz Portugal

people out. It’s still printed in my mind.

What attracted you to the sport?

So Yannick you won the Europeans in 2008. Will you have recovered enough from the surgery to compete this year? No, unfortunately not. But I am looking

To be in the water, to slide and to find

forward to returning to competition for

the best place for surfing.

the 2011 World title in Portugal. o

What was your sporting background? I spent around ten years skateboarding and surfed for around two years

When did you start entering competitions? I was 16 when I entered my first competition . It was a county contest and we got good waves. I finished 2nd and was really happy.

Yannick Laousse surfing at Reunion Island, Indian Ocean www.uberdogmagazine.co.uk

060-061 Norn Iron Man Pages.qxp

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adventure running

Are they

Contestants compete in a gruelling 25km extreme race at

allygawley’s Toddsleap.com welcomed a top international field including marathon, mountain and cross-

country champions (and one dog!) to the first ever Toddsleap.com Norn Iron Man (or Woman) 25k Challenge in aid of Action MS in April. This new top-class event proved its place on the sporting calendar with some of Northern Ireland’s top athletes hailing the event the best extreme run around!

Top dog at Todd’s Leap Ben O’Hanlon starts the race

Participants faced some of the country’s toughest terrain covering mountains and

McCarney of Up and Runners Belfast,

Speaking after the extreme running

taking second place.

hills with obstacles such as tyers and netting

event, newly crowned Norn Iron Man Don

adding an extra challenge to what was

Travers of Newry City Harriers said: “This

Dr Elizabeth O’Brien is a GP in

already a tough track.

was a brutal course, but in a sadistically

Enniskillen, speaking after the event

enjoyable way, you really felt pushed. It

Elizabeth said:

International Marathon Runner and first

“That was a really gruelling challenge,

ever Norn Iron Man - Don Travers from

was a War of Attrition out there! The Norn

Newry powered ahead of Eirin McDaid in

Iron Man Challenge is like nothing I have

the Norn Iron Woman is a totally unique

the final lap. Eirin, a world-class cross-

ever done before- or any of us- it was

event and it was really well-organised. Not

country runner from Dungannon, led for the

great to be competing against different

only did we have the hills and off road

first four laps but an old ankle injury proved

types of runners - a top challenge in aid of

tracks to contend with but the obstacles

decisive as Don Travers showed his stamina

a worthy cause, Action MS and I will be

added a fresh challenge. This was a

and picked up his pace on the final hill.

back next year to defend my title.”

fantastic race and I will be back to defend

Kristofer Muldoon, Armagh Athletics Club,

my title.”

In the Norn Iron Woman 20k event

The event raised over £3,000 for Action

took third place showing his experience as

Enniskillen GP Dr Elizabeth O’Brien

an International mountain runner.

stitched up the field with friend and Jolene

MS, Northern Ireland’s multiple sclerosis charity and looks set to become an annual event. o

This was a brutal course, but in a sadistically enjoyable way, you really felt pushed...

www.uberdogmagazine.co.uk

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Barking

the inaugural Norn Iron Man contest in Toddsleap.com

Don Travers races to victory

2nd and 3rd place racers Eirin McDaid and Kristofer Muldo on

For more information on forthcoming events at Irelandâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s premier outdoor activities centre visit www.toddsleap.com www.uberdogmagazine.co.uk

062 CLUB PAGE Queens Cavers.qxp

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WHO IS THE CLUB FOR? Students who like to explore the caves of Ireland, Britain and beyond.

WHAT’S THE HISTORY OF THE CLUB? It was formed in 1980 by a group of bored climbers who wanted to use their skills for something new and exciting, and has thrived as one of the university’s most extreme clubs since then. Many of Ireland’s best cavers have their roots at QUBCC and have gone on to make major discoveries both in Ireland, and in expeditions abroad.

WHAT IS THE CLUB ETHOS? We give students an opportunity to explore Ireland’s multitude of underground caverns, while promoting safety and environmental understanding.

WHAT’S THE CLUB ALL ABOUT? Caving (or potholing) is a low-key sport in Ireland, despite the local abundance of extensive cave systems. QUBCC is Northern Ireland’s only student caving club and specialises in training its members

Training on Wednesday nights

to a high standard in abseiling and cave navigation. Most excursions are to the caves of Fermanagh and

Potholing in Yorkshire

Cavan, many of which are breathtakingly large and contain magnificent rock formations. One such cave is the famous Marble Arch, although the portion of the cave that visitors see on the tour is only the beginning of a five hour trip into its depths!

WHEN DOES THE CLUB MEET? Wednesdays 6-8pm at Queens PEC

ARE THERE ANY CLUB MEMBERSHIP FEES? Yes, £5 per year for QUB students

Con

att: wn do em th k ac tr fas Bel y, sit tact: Queens Univer

Email: qubcc@yahoogroups.com Web: www.caving.club.qub.ac.uk

Exploring Cascades cave in County Fermanagh

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066-069 Joni Swanston Pages.qxp

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Adventuring

I’m Still S d, Last Woman Mastering the extreme sports of indigenous tribes around the worl s star to five months of her life. überdog caught up with the Bangor born sport

he may not have won the

later they gave me a call and I had a

mother on her toes as I was growing up!

series, but for local athlete

telephone interview. After that I had to

I’ve also learnt to be mentally tough as this

Joni Swanston, starring in

attend a casting followed by a fitness day,

is essential in competitive sports.”

BBC’s Last Woman

which was excruciating! Then a few days

Standing was the

Well accustomed to winning Joni, who

later I got a call from the Series Producer

plays rugby for Richmond and has

experience of a lifetime. The series

to tell me I had made the final five who

represented Ireland in sailing and

followed five British athletes travelling the

were going to compete in LWS!”

Northern Ireland at netball, was still

world to compete against women from remote tribes and cultures, spending one Joni as most of her friends know her and (far right) as she appeared in ‘Last Woman Standing’

week in each location to master an indigenous sport, whilst eating and sleeping as their local competitors do. The competition began with an aggressive wrestling tournament when the girls spent time in a small Brazilian village to train with a tough tribe where, for one week a year, the women are allowed to take centre stage in a wrestling tournament. Joni fights her way to first place proving she’s a force to be reckoned with, but the physical demands seem extreme and leave you wondering why an attractive, 24 year-old sales account manager would put herself in this situation. So what inspired Joni to take up the challenge? “I have always been into sport,” she begins. “I took part and competed in so many sports growing up - sailing, netball, swimming, gymnastics, athletics, dance, football, hockey and rugby. I just love learning new skills and working towards competitions. I love the routine involved in training and the best part is meeting new people and the social side that comes from

I’ve always been a tomboy and have a very high pain threshold which I think kept my mother on her toes as I was growing up!

sport.

Describing herself as a tough

“So when an email was sent to my

tomboy who’s always up for a challenge

Rugby Club looking for contestants for

Joni clearly had the skills for the job: “I’ve

this new extreme sports TV show I

always been a tomboy and have a very

applied straight away. About five minutes

high pain threshold, which I think kept my

066-069 Joni Swanston Pages.qxp

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l Standing ling Standing competitor Joni Swanston faced the toughest but most thril find out how starring in a BBC series has changed her life… shocked when she heard she had made it

had made the show I stayed focused and

Indonesia, bamboo rafting in the

into the programme: “I didn’t really know

concentrated on getting my ankle

Philippines and running up a mountain in

how to feel, “ she explains. “I was really

rehabilitated in time so I felt 100% going

Mexico. Gritting her teeth in determination

excited and just grateful for the

into the competition.”

Joni won the first event, a female wrestling

opportunity, which I knew was going to be

Needing to put on the biggest show of

competition in Brazil, beating off stiff

an experience of a lifetime! I was plagued

her life, Joni faced a series of gruelling

competition from fellow contestants and

with an ankle injury so when I found out I

challenges including buffalo racing in

local experts alike.

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The experience was a rollercoaster of ups and downs, But even the downs made for a positive experience...

Buffalo racing was one of Joni’s extreme challenges

“It was awesome to get a win, especially because it was the first competition, it gave me a big confidence boost. It did set a standard that I felt I had to uphold though and

difficult. I hadn’t done any long

when I didn’t win in the second event, I

distance running competitions and I

found it quite hard to keep my

found it mentally testing – especially

confidence up and my frustrations

with the addition of heat and lack of

down!”

food.” Despite these set backs Joni

While the physical demands of each task were obvious, there were other

maintained a winner s mentality as she

unseen difficulties associated with the

reveals: “I tried to talk myself into thinking that I would definitely win the

tribal integration, both mentally and

whole competition. I sometimes struggle

emotionally, that Joni and the girls were forced to overcome. With the Xavante tribe in Brazil, Joni has to train for a log race when she finds her

to drive away any evil spirits they may

when it comes to being confident in

have brought with them.

competitions and from experience and

“It's hard to understand the reason for

advice from great sports people, I know

determined attitude starting to slip and

doing it and to accept it,” she says. “Even

how important the power of self-belief is. If

feelings of vulnerability beginning to show.

though I respect the fact that different

it is not naturally there, you have to

cultures have different beliefs, it’s not easy

convince yourself. If you are not confident

know, I waved or smiled and they just

to participate in something that is so alien

about winning, it will become a self

looked blankly at me. It's just the way they

to your culture.”

fulfilling prophecy!”

“The families were quite hard to get to

are but it's hard not to let that affect you.”

During the endurance trials for the Kali,

In the end will power alone wasn’t

Joni faced another blow when an injury

enough and although she put up an

the culture and the tribe, finding some of

looked set to thwart her chances to

incredible fight, Joni was out-shone by

the traditions hard to comprehend. In the

compete. The family took good care of

fellow contestant, wakeboarder Anna

Philippines, training for the Kali, Master

her, nursing her back to recovery, but the

Campbell, who was crowned Last Woman

Rommel and his family, who have led the

set back was a huge frustration for

Standing series winner, but there’s no

pekiti tirsia kali fighting system for

someone who is so desperate to

hard feelings and Joni believes that the

generations, carry out a tradition that

compete.

five contestants will be lifelong friends:

Joni also finds it tough to integrate into

involves dripping fresh chicken blood onto

“I think all the tasks were tough,” she

“We all got along brilliantly. For five girls

the athletes' heads, a ritual that is believed

recalls. “I found the running particularly

who had never met and who were from

www.uberdogmagazine.co.uk

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Adventuring

sports she loves and enjoying the company of friends. “I live with my boyfriend up in Newcastle-upon-Tyne and work from home. Outside work I train a lot and play a lot of rugby and netball. I don’t go out to clubs at all really, although I love to spend time with my friends and I’m looking forward to BBQ season coming up!” So did becoming a TV star A different sort of mud-pack to what most girls expect

change her life? “Not at all!” she laughs. “It didn’t make any difference to my life when it came onto the TV. I loved the support I got

different backgrounds and sports you

way they compete. It takes you totally out

from my friends and family and knowing

would expect a few hiccups along the

of your comfort zone but that in itself was

they were proud of me, that was the most

way, but we all provided such a support to

massively empowering.”

important thing. I have had a few people

each other. I suppose we treated each

Back to the reality of daily life, Joni

recognising me, but not too many. I didn’t

other like sisters. We bickered every now

admits to having found it difficult to adjust:

go into the show hoping for fame. I

and again but we were very protective of

“It was pretty hard coming back to the real

enjoyed the experience while it lasted and

each other. We all still keep in touch,

world. For five months we lived a very

if any other opportunities came from it that

which is great.”

exciting life that few people, if any, get to

would be cool.

experience. Knowing I was coming back

“I consider myself as a very lucky

says: “The experience was a rollercoaster

to do an ordinary job and live an ordinary

person,” she concludes. “I have been

of ups and downs,” she reveals. “But even

life and that the dream was over, was

given great opportunities growing up, Last

the downs made for a positive experience,

pretty depressing! I know I’ll have plenty of

Woman Standing was one of them, and I

knowing you can get through the difficult

adventures in the future though, and I’ll

have made the most of everything that has

times and come out the other side.

not stop enjoying life whether I’m in a tribe

been thrown at me. People sometimes say

or working 9-5!”

I’m a bit crazy and I can be a bit random

Summarising her LWS experience Joni

“I learnt so many new things, about other people and about myself. I had the

Joni’s job is to organise stag and hen

and loud I suppose, but I’m serious when I

opportunity to meet so many new people,

weekends and it’s one that she loves.

need to be and I try to have as much fun

to live the way they live and compete the

Aside from that her time is spent doing the

as I can, when I can. Carpe Diem!” o

I don’t think we’ll be seeing many of these down Shaw’s Bridge anytime soon

www.uberdogmagazine.co.uk

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10/5/10

15:44

Page 70

dog magazine? Missed issue one of über

SHAME ON YOU!

with FREE P&P* £3 st ju r fo e lin on it y Bu

o.uk .c e n zi a g a m g o rd e b .u w w w

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071-074 Scuba for Beginners.qxp

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Guide to Scuba Diving Discover a whole new world beneath the waves by taking the plunge and learning to scuba dive. überdog reveals what it takes to become an open water diver

Pictures: Andrew Rankin

wimming, surfing, sailing, it’s all great, but have you ever thought about diving beneath the waves and experiencing the ocean

from another dimension? Scuba diving is enjoyed by thousands of people in Ireland and the numbers are swelling as more and more people begin to appreciate the wonders of the sea as seen through a mask. The good news is that if you fancy trying your hand at diving, you couldn’t live in a better place to get started as the north of Ireland offers some of the best dive sites and experiences in the world. From the stranded wrecks located off the north coast to the biological diversity of Strangford Lough, we have it all on our doorstep. The north coast is known for spectacular drop offs, wrecks and reefs both deep and shallow - for all levels. Strangford Lough is home to 15 divable sites, while Belfast Lough offers up to 20. Or if you prefer to explore the unknown, there’s thought to be 400 wrecks off the north coast of Ireland alone! But before you go jumping in at the deep end, it’s important that you get qualified and that means enrolling in a diving course to obtain your Open Water Diving Certificate.

www.uberdogmagazine.co.uk

Diver with a Greater pipefish

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PARTICIPATE:

anywhere in the world with a buddy

Okay, so you’re ready to take the plunge. The

independent of a professional. Here are a

first thing you need to do is sign up with a

few recommended dive schools:

dive school and get your basic diving of diving in Northern Ireland: BSAC and

ACQUAHOLICS DIVE SCHOOL

The Internet is an invaluable tool when it

PADI. PADI tends to be the more popular

14 Portmore Road,

comes to investigating sports and diving is

qualification and most divers will always

Portstewart, Co. Londonderry

no exception. Google ‘dive schools Ireland’

check that the diving centre they go to is

telephone: 028 7083 2584

and you’ll begin to appreciate the size of the

PADI qualified.

website: www.aquaholics.org

INVESTIGATE:

market as numerous qualified schools vie for

qualification. There are broadly two "schools"

All PADI dive centres will include equipment

A PADI five star dive centre with offices in

your attention. Alternatively do it the old-

hire and insurance as part of the instruction

Ballycastle and Portstewart. All levels of dive

fashioned way and look up diving schools or

cost.

courses are provided for and the centre has

centres in the Yellow Pages or ask at your

The best way to begin is to enroll in a

a shop, a popular dive club and runs daily

local leisure centre or tourist information

'Discover Scuba Diving' course, a standard,

centre for details of the schools that hold

worldwide course with PADI accreditation. It

scuba classes in your area.

costs approximately £35 for around 1 hour's

DV DIVING

instruction/try dive, and usually contributes to

138 Mountstewart Road,

the full PADI course.

Newtownards, Co. Down

Once you’ve found a couple of options, give each one a call and check the qualifications of their coaches and the prices

As a basic health and safety standard you

dive charters to local dive spots.

telephone: 028 9146 4671

they charge before enrolling in whichever

must be able to swim 200m and to be able

website: www.dvdiving.co.uk

diving course is best for you.

to swim or float for a further 10 minutes. You

A PADI five star dive centre based at

must be physically fit and be a minimum age

Strangford Lough that offers a variety of dive

of eight years to learn to dive in a pool, or 10

courses catering for the beginner to the

Unlike other sports that we’ll feature in this

years for open water diving. After an hour's

professional. The centre runs a busy dive

section, diving isn’t really one that you can

training, you can take your first dive, either in

schedule and organized dive holidays and

actively spectate as all the action happens

sheltered sea conditions or in a swimming

has a small shop on site.

below the water level. But if you want to see

pool.

SPECTATE:

for yourself how it’s done, you could contact

ZI DIVERS

Progression to your PADI Open Water

your local dive school and ask would they

qualification will require the completion of five

3 Lenagh Road,

mind if you came along and watched a dive

pool dives and knowledge development

Randalstown, Co. Antrim

lesson in the pool or if they would take you

sessions and four open water sea dives, with

telephone: 077 5669 9880

out in the boat the next time a sea dive was

a total cost of around £500. Once

website: www.zidivers.com

being arranged. Be warned though, all you’ll

completed, as a certified PADI Open Water

Operated by trained PADI instructors,

get to see are other people jumping into the

Diver, you’ll have the freedom to dive

courses include Discover Scuba Diving,

water and coming up again a while later with smiles on their faces, the reason for which

Open Water Referral and PADI Open Water. Starfish

will be lost on you. You really need to be in

For more dive providers and clubs

their suits to experience the thrill,

visit www.outdoorni.com

SNORKEL SOLUTION Snor

Diver on the bow of the e State of Louisiana, Larn

kelling is becoming an increasingly popular activity and requires only minimal basic equipment - a mask and a snorkel. A tempered glass lens offers optical clarity, safety, scra tch resistance and remains fog-free for longer, while a soft silicone skirt gives a water-tight and comfortable fit. Jackson Sports sell a mask with all these features for just £24.99, a price which also includes a high-qua lity snorkel with a convenient and easy to use drain valve. Find it at Jackson Sports, Belf ast or online at www.jackson-sports.com

www.uberdogmagazine.co.uk

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Scuba Diving

Guide to Investigate, spectate & participate Starter kit PADI course providers will supply you with all the equipment you need to go diving - you just need to turn up with swimwear and bags of enthusiasm. Once you are qualified you may want to invest in your own kit rather than hire. A basic starter set would include a mask, fins and snorkel costing around £100. For a full set of diving equipment including a suit, regulator and BC (buoyancy compensator) vest, expect to pay around £1,500.

Six top dive spots

STRANGFORD LOUGH

HMS DRAKE

Strangford is the largest sea inlet in the British Isles with a meandering shoreline of 150 miles. This gigantic inland sea has about 120 small islands and is surrounded almost entirely by land offering an enormous diversity of easily accessible diving sites. Quite simply, Strangford Lough is unique, a marine biologist's paradise. Strangford boasts some 15 divable wrecks.

A 14,100 ton heavy cruiser torpedoed by U-79 on 2nd October 1917. Lying in 18 metres of water in Church Bay, Rathlin Island. Grid Reference: D130500 HMS Drake Circa. 1910

NORTH WALL - RATHLIN ISLAND

THE BLUE POOL

THE MAIDENS

RIDGES

The visibility can be absolutely stunning at easily over 40m making this one of the most truly awesome dives in the UK & Ireland. The sheer vertical walls have masses of deadman's fingers, sponges and such like. Cuckoo and other wrasse varieties are common and at 28-34m is a truly spectacular sea arch. Below this are a series of large sea caverns. Eventually it's time to ascend into the kelp forest above, at 20m, where sea hen may be found, with a variety of mackerel, pollack and moon jellyfish. Grid Reference: D135518

The Blue Pool is a well-known divers favourite. Overhangs, reef and boulders provide loads of homes for marine life. Be careful of fishing lines and a swell can make exits difficult at times. Night dive sightings can include cuttlefish, octopus, lobsters, congers etc. Grid Reference: C847403

Diver on the deck of the Louchgarry, Rathlin

nic’ The 350ft long ‘Housato

The Maidens is a group of nine rocks located approximately six miles north of Larne. The diving here is spectacular and the natural underwater landscape remains relatively undisturbed by man - possibly as a result of strong tides. With local knowledge and neat tides the clear waters of the Maidens are a must for divers. All of the wrecks lie between 5m-18m of water with one, the ‘Housatonic’ extending down to 35m. Grid Reference: D429044

Tompot Blenny

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Located north of Skerries. Minimum depth 25 metres. Good planning and well-equipped, qualified divers can have a superb dive here. Strong currents make this deep reef a dive to remember. Grid Reference: C872419

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Scuba Diving

Guide to Investigate, spectate & participate

Painted Goby

The pick-up, Strangford Lough

Benefits: Gets you closer to nature: Wildlife lovers will

sets available to hire, taking the plunge is

find luxurious growths of dead men's fingers

affordable fun.

and big sponges. Seals are a common sight

Community: Northern Ireland has numerous

as well as conger eels, dogfish, cuttlefish,

dive clubs around the country that organise

lobsters, gunnels and gobies.

dive trips both here and abroad, so there’s no

water isn’t the warmest. Become PADI

Inexpensive: Once qualified you can dive at

excuse for not finding a diving buddy.

qualified and you will be able to enjoy dives

local sites for free and with the basic

Travel: The north of Ireland may offer some

around the world - tops spots include the Red

equipment costing around £100 with full dive

of the best dive sites in the world, but the

Sea and Australia’s Great Barrier Reef.

Competition WIN SCUBA LESSONS WITH DV DIVING WORTH £295 überdog magazine and DV Diving have teamed up to offer one lucky reader the chance to win a set of scuba lessons that will qualify you to the PADI Referal point. This prize covers all the confined water lessons in the pool as well as theory and exams and includes all materials and use of equipment. This is the first step towards qualifying as a PADI Open Water diver, so go on, take the plunge! ABOUT DV DIVING: A PADI Five Star IDC Dive Centre, DV Diving are based at Strangford Lough, County Down and offer one of Europe's most comprehensive ranges of scuba, technical and commercial diving and powerboat training courses - for the complete beginner through to instructor development for the most experienced professionals. To find out more about DV Diving and the courses they offer visit www.dvdiving.com

To enter this competition visit www.uberdogmagazine.co.uk/scuba and answer this following question:

Q. Where are DV Diving based? Closing date 25th June 2010. One prize only, no cash alternatives. Entrants must be over 16 years old. Prize dates subject to availabilty. Full competition terms and conditions online.

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Festival

travel

Frolics

cares that You don’t need to travel far to have some serious fun this summer. Who right on our Glastonbury sold out when we have some of the best music festivals ay… doorstep. Buy a ticket, pack a tent and hitch a ride on the festival freew SEA SESSIONS SURF & MUSIC FESTIVAL

WILLOWSTONE

WHEN? 25-27 June

WHEN?

WHERE? Bundoran, Co. Donegal

3 July

WHAT? The most perfectly formed of all the summer music

WHERE? Delamont

festivals, Sea Sessions takes place right on the Bundoran sea

Country Park, Co.

front. An eclectic mix of activities and entertainment, this three-

Down

day festival includes great music and serious surfing.

WHAT?

Music comes courtesy of new bands and established acts -

The second

this years big draws being David

Willowstone Festival

Holmes, Paul Weller, Andrew

promises a full day

Weatherall and the Fun Lovin’

of local and

Criminals. BMX display, Club DJs,

international artists,

film premieres, eco-food, real

workshops, fun and music with camping in the evening. The

circus, street entertainment,

unique setting of The Delamont Walled Garden will be the

festival clobber, skateboarding,

main stage and entertainment area, showcasing top quality

photography and quirky exhibits

local and international bands and musicians throughout the

are all thrown into this festival mix.

day. The walled garden will be home to art installations, which

Not to be missed is the Quiksilver

double as interactive and immersive games, contemporary

Expression Session competition

dance performances, street theatre and fire poi dancers.

that has a €1,000 travel voucher

Locally brewed beers will be on offer in the Tepee Beer Tent

for the winner and spot prizes for

run by the Hilden Brewing Company and the award winning

innovative surfing, so go and bust some big moves!

Pheasants Hill Farm will be providing locally produced organic

COST: €79.95 per ticket. Unofficial festival camping will be

hog roasts as well as many tasty vegetarian options.

available in Bundoran. Weekend camping is €20pp (Fri 25th-

COST: Day ticket £26, camping ticket £32. Available from

Sun 27th June), email: bundorancamping@gmail.com

Belfast Guitar Emporium and from the website

INFO: www.seasessions.com

INFO: www.willowstonefestival.com

LIFE FESTIVAL WHEN? 4-6 June WHERE? Belvedere House Park and Gardens, Mullingar, Co. Westmeath WHAT? An annual, three-day gathering of like-minded music lovers, held at the stunning Belvedere House in Mullingar. Last year almost 5000 people participated during the weekend and this year’s event promises to be bigger than ever with a line up that includes leading musicians, artists, and performers from around the world. The perfect hybrid of a musical event and a festival of performing arts, Life Festival is described as being “unlike any other weekend in Ireland's dance scene." COST: A full weekend pass costs €136.74 and includes three days of Life at Belvedere House Gardens and Park. Around the clock activities and programs, 150+ acts and camping. Saturday & Sunday pass and Sunday only passes are also available. INFO: www.life-festival.com

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travel OXEGEN WHEN? 9-11 July WHERE? Punchestown Racecourse WHAT? Oxegen never fails to impress with its star-studded festival line-up and 2010 is no exception with the likes of Arcade Fire, Fatboy Slim, Eminem, Muse, Jay-Z, The Black Eyed Peas, Kasabian, The Prodigy, Florence + The Machine, Paolo Nutini, Faithless, Stereophonics…the list goes on and on. Of course Oxegen isn’t just about the music so expect funfairs, a singing tent, chill-out marquees, music workshops and hundreds of tempting food and merchandise stalls. If you like your creature comforts you’ll love the green campsite village with its very own hot showers, nice toilets and a handy location close to the parking areas. There are some brilliant new accommodation choices too check out the über-swish Kabins that come complete with fridge, flat screen TV, iPod dock and ceiling-mounted speakers! There’s also cool Kocoons, tents and Tipis, Podpads, Beach Huts and Ships Cabins. COST: Tickets start from €99 for a day pass, rising to €224.40 for a 4-day ticket with camping. INFO: www.oxegen.ie

INDIEPENDANCE MUSIC FESTIVAL WHEN? 31 July - 2 August

THE ELECTRIC PICNIC MUSIC FESTIVAL

WHERE? Deer Farm, Mitchelstown, Co. Cork

WHEN?

WHAT? A funky, free-thinking three-day festival that pulls

3-5 September

crowds with a combination of festival favorites; live music,

WHERE?

comedy, DJs and some added extras including a skate

Stradbally, Co. Laois

competition, Relentless Mountain Bike assault course and

WHAT?

more. This year the festival has a new 40-acre site boasting a

A festival favourite,

permanent structure that will accommodate over 3,000 people

Electric Picnic prides

and become the

itself on its eclectic

Bavaria Main

range of bands, with

Stage for the

mainstream

weekend. The

international stars

Cyprus Avenue

playing next to niche

Arena makes a

acts. Less grungy

welcome return

than some festivals,

with the

the facilities, food and sleeping arrangements here are

addition of a

excellent and the event has a chilled back vibe that attracts

saddle span

families. This years line-up includes Roxy Music, Leftfield,

tent to house

Massive Attack, LCD Sound System, The Frames, Seasick

the live electro

Steve and more. A camper’s dream, you can DIY or choose

stage and there’s The Square Stage that will host a mix of

from the vast menu of already assembled accommodations

everything. Combine all this with on-site camping, tasty foods

on-site ranging from Tipis, Yurts and Bunk Campers to the new

and a great new site and you’ve got one hell of a weekend.

Geo-domes.

COST: Weekend camping €79 allows access to the arena

COST:

and campsite. Weekend non-camping €59.

Weekend camping tickets €240 (no day tickets available)

INFO: www.indiependencefestival.com

INFO: www.electricpicnic.ie

Best Across the Channel: THE WHITE AIR EXTREME SPORTS FESTIVAL WHEN? 17-19 September WHERE? Brighton Beach WHAT? This three-day event is expected to feature live music and parties alongside extreme sports, competitions, and displays. White Air Brighton hopes to become Europe's premier extreme sports festival with an extreme sports village with free sports ramps for skaters, boarders and bikers and all the urban sports and a 'Have-a-Go' sports area. Sports competitions and displays are expected to include surfing, kitesurfing, windsurfing, slackline, ropeboarding, streetboarding, mountain board, skateboard, BMX, mountain bike, parkour and more! COST: Weekend general admission early bird ticket, £60 INFO: www.whiteair.co.uk

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Carry on Camping überdog's top

10 tips for festival camping

1 SIZE:

If it's you and a mate a two-man tent won't be big enough for the both of you. Budget for a three-man tent instead. You'll appreciate the extra space for all that White Lightening and Buckfast. Whatever you do, don't buy a 12-man party tent because: 1) they weigh a tonne, 2) they're a pain to put up and take down and 3) you'll have less privacy for that festival shag! Anyway with several smaller tents your group can arrange them in a circle Wild West style.

2 EASE OF USE:

Pop-up tents are cheap and super easy to unpack and put up but they're a pain to pack away after. However, in true festival style don't bother to pack it - just leave it for the bulldozer!

4 COMFORT:

Airbeds are more likely to impress your festival date but be warned they have a habit of deflating on impact! Instead, consider buying a decent self-inflating mattress from a brand such a High Gear SWEET DREAMS Comfort Plus Transit - typical Pillow from Eagle Creek www.eaglecreek.com price about £25.

5 PRICE:

A basic tent can cost as little as 15 quid, but… buyer beware! Inexpensive tents won't stand up to abuse, won't be very waterproof, and with so many good deals to be had from in store promotions you can get more than you bargained for. For example: Vango promotions include foam mats and sleeping bags with their two-man tents for about £70.

6 SLEEPING BAGS:

SNUG AS A BUG Two man starter tent with sleeping bags £29.98, B&Q

WATER RESISTANCE:

Avoid single skin tents because they have condensation problems and won't keep you dry if it rains - which it inevitably will. So be sure to ask your tent retailer about the 'Hydrostatic Head' (water resistance) of your chosen tent before purchase.

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Sleep?! Well, if you do need to catch some zeds remember the smaller and warmer a sleeping bag the more you'll pay for it. A decent sleeping bag for a festival should cost no more than £40 and will give you a comfort temperature rating of +8 Celsius - perfect for festivals in Ireland and Britain during the summer.

MOBILE HOME A great value dome tent for two, the Vango Alpha 250, £45 has a large front porch for storage making it idea l for bicycle or motorcycle campers. Buy it at Cotswold Outdoor, Belfast and online at www.cotswoldoutdoor.com

OUT FROM 7 STAND THE CROWD: Mark your territory/campsite by customising your tent with paint/flags and whatever decoration you find on site. This way you'll be sure to find your tent in the early hours of the morning after partying all night.

/ RELIABILITY: 8 STRENGTH No tent is designed to withstand drunken revellers falling onto it. However, aluminium tent poles will provide greater strength than the standard fibreglass.

9 ACCESSORIES:

To make your festival camping experience as comfortable as possible, consider budgeting for fold up chairs, solar camp lights, a stove, cutlery and some utensils - a home from home SIZZLE TIME Complete your camping experience experience. with a burnt sausage. Football BBQ, £29.50, Marks and Spencer

10 SECURITY:

Tents have two zips in the doorway that can be locked together with a small padlock, but because tent fabric can easily be torn there's little point. The rule for tent security is: don't bring valuables and leave them in your tent unattended.

MUSIC MAKER Surround yourself with music using these cool S125i Portable MP3 Speakers. Simply pop in your iPod and you can enjoy up to 10 hours of battery powered music as you camp. £29.99 from www.logitech.com and www.amazon.co.uk

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minterview

Masochistic Mayhem! of the Excited about this for weeks we couldn’t wait until one quarter mayhem Dirty Sanchez crew landed in Belfast for a night of masochistic e... at their exclusive live stage show, courtesy of the guys at Apach

lways on hand, your intrepid überdog reporter caught up with the live and unleashed Pancho

(aka Michael Locke) and spent some quality time chatting over a pint of the good stuff... well someone’s got to do it.

Have you ever been to Belfast before? Yes, several times. I’ve spent a lot of time skating around St Anne’s, some of my mates are from here that are absolute skating legends for example Conhuir Lynn

Some of the antics we’ve all grown to know and love

and Bernie Rea. It’s fantastic to be sitting here opposite the legendary Europa Hotel

aims to raise £1 million by undertaking a

(I’ve grinded down that railing outside). I

number of seemingly impossible

think Belfast is really cosmopolitan, I love it

challenges, which really shouldn’t be

and have to admit I’ve fallen down the

skateboarding. We all congregated

attempted by sane individuals, between

steps at St Anne’s a few times too.

together to record skateboard and BMX

now and 2012. We really need people to

footage but the outtakes became more

get involved either by voicing ideas, helping

How did you manage to hit the big time and get your insane antics on tv?

popular than the serious stuff and FHM

to organise events or even do them

caught up with it and MTV. MTV called me

themselves! Check it out on

several times and I didn’t believe it was

www.thesnowballproject.com.

Well we’ve known each other for years, I

them, on the third occasion they contacted

actually met Pritchard 17 years ago through

me MTV were like “are you at work, what’s

rocked the Empire and their loyal fans did

your address?” and the following day train

not disappoint with audience participation

tickets arrived to travel to London. The rest

the order of the night. In the words of

is history.

Homer Simpson himself “I saw weird stuff

Pancho outside Apache, Belfast

Up for a good night, Wales’ finest

in that place last night. Weird, strange,

We’ve seen you on Balls of Steel, Jobs for the Boyos, Behind the 7 Sins, Dirty Sanchez: The Movie to name a few, what’s next?

sick, twisted, eerie, godless, evil stuff... and I want in”. o

Well, we obviously work together as Dirty Sanchez but we all have our independent projects too which we work on. I have “Pancho’s Revenge” coming out at Christmas, I can’t give too much away but let me say there’s numerous aspects to it!”. I’m currently working on Ireland Ink, the filming is underway, it’s bringing together the best tattoo artists in Ireland with celebrities, extreme sports, me and Joycey. I’m also involved in charity work such as the snowball project, a cancer charity which

It’s strange when you meet one of your idols - or so Pancho thought anyway

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the

y r o t c e dir

d the north of Irelan ss ro ac es ss ne si oor bu your guide to outd bike shops

activity operators Activities Ireland

Chain Reaction Cycles Kilbride Road, Doagh Ballyclare BT39 0QA tel: 028 9334 5515 email: shop@chainreactioncycles.com web: www.chainreactioncycles.com

187 Lower Braniel Road Belfast, Antrim BT5 7NP tel: 084 5439 2048 mob: 079 7108 7480 email: info@activitiesireland.co.uk web: www.activitiesireland.co.uk

selection of products from the industries leading brands in all cycling disciplines. To compliment the service they provide to their on-line customers they also have a state of the art showroom and shopping facility where they showcase the ultimate products in the world of cycling ranging from high tech DH mountain bikes to featherweight road race bikes that are at the cutting edge of cycling technology and design which feature exotic materials and manufacturing processes combined with the very latest components.

and your friends or for a youth group this summer? With over 15 years experience in the Outdoor Activity business, Activities Ireland can provide you with great day out. We can provide simple activity instruction, fun packed activities or more structured adventure learning and development programmes for individuals, youth groups, schools, or corporate clients. Activities Ireland is currently Northern Ireland’s only Duke of Edinburgh’s Award approved activity provider!

m Chain Reaction Cycles offer the widest

m Thinking about an adventurous activity for you

Bike it Cycles

Surfin’ Dirt Mountain Boarding

74 Grand Parade Belfast Antrim BT5 5HH tel: 028 9079 7974 email: info@bikeitcycles.com web: www.bikeitcycles.com

Tullyree Road, Bryansford Down BT34 5LD mob: 077 3921 0119 email: info@surfindirt.co.uk web: www.surfindirt.co.uk web: www.gaspactionsports.com

enthusiasts looking for the latest and best cycles, not forgetting those people cycling to work or just pedalling for exercise and fun! Bike It cover all disciplines and areas including road bikes, mountain bikes, hybrid bikes, BMX, clothing and accessories. Specialists in Trek /Merida/ Lapierre bikes and Endura and Madison Clothing. Open from 9am to 5.30pm Monday to Saturday.

m Surfin’ Dirt is the one and only mountain board centre in Ireland, Located in the spectacular surroundings of the Mourne Mountains, Surfin’ Dirt mountain board centre provides an exciting venue for mountain boarders and mountain bikers of all skills and ages. Beginners have the opportunity to learn and develop skills on the nursery slope, while more advanced riders will enjoy the long carving runs, jumps and features on the main hill.

JMC Cycles

Hot Rock Climbing Wall

140 Forkhill Road, Drumintee. Newry, BT35 8SU tel: 028 30888593 email: james@jmccycles.com web: www.jmccycles.com

Tollymore Mountain Centre, Bryansford Newcastle, Down BT33 0PT tel: 028 4372 5354 email: trevor.fisher@tollymore.com web: www.tollymore.com

wheels. Unbelievable choice of bikes, karts, clothing and accessories in a stunning location exactly a mile from Slieve Gullion Forest Park - great for immediate practice! Helpful staff provide expert guidance and you can test any bike out to make sure you’re happy. Seriously discounted prices and brilliant back-up service are reflected in the growing customer base from all over Ireland. Customer service that’s hard to beat. A little gem & well worth a small detour!

one outdoors and one indoors. The outdoor wall was built in the early 1970s, and is a large granite boulder structure. It is used on many rockclimbing courses, and is ideal for learning to place gear, set up belays and learn basic ropework.The indoor wall opened in 2000. It is owned by the Mountaineering Council of Ireland and managed by Tollymore. It consists of a bouldering wall and a lead wall. There is a wide variety of routes on this wall, which are changed regularly. The wall is over 9 metres high, and generally has over 70 graded routes. The bouldering wall is 4 metres high and has vertical and overhanging sections.

m Bike It have the right bike to meet every need: from a child's first cycle, to the

m Two floors of everything on

Summit Mountain Biking 91 Church Road, Glengormley BT36 6HG tel: Ciara 07786136324 or Conor 07973115303 email: info@summitmountainbiking.com web: www.summitmountainbiking.com

m Catering for all ages and levels of mountain bike ability Summit Mountain Biking’s

experienced and qualified SMBLA/Cycling Ireland Mountain Bike Coaches can help you get the most out of riding your bike. From personal 1-2-1 MTB skills tuition to group MTB courses and guided trail rides, we provide full coverage throughout Northern Ireland. New for 2010: Tailor made MTB weekends based in Mournes/Cooley Mountains. Contact us now for some of the best Mountain Bike action in Ireland.

www.uberdogmagazine.co.uk

m There are two climbing walls at Tollymore,

bike tuition Dave Youngs Mountain Bike Instruction mob: 078 0942 6202 email: davidyoungs8831@yahoo.co.uk web: www.youngsmountainbikeinstruction.co.uk

m Dave Youngs has been

involved in mountain biking for many years. During that time his proven method of instruction has been the key to his success. With a relaxed, but confident and friendly manner, he will get the best from your strengths and individual character. Always pushing the individual to achieve their aim but never beyond their limits.

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directory combat games

kayaks & canoes

Todds Leap Activity Centre

Coast & Creek

30 Todds Leap Road, Ballymacilroy, Ballygawley, Tyrone BT70 2BW tel: 028 8556 7170 email: info@toddsleap.com web: www.toddsleap.com

at Taggart & Co Ltd 38-44 Main Street Ballymoney BT53 6AP tel: 028 2766 2130 email: info@coastandcreek.com web: www.coastandcreek.com

m Toddsleap.com is the No 1 outdoor activity centre in Ireland. Based in Ballygawley, Toddsleap.com specialise in producing superb corporate entertainment, teambuilding days and stag/hen events incorporating the very best in extreme off road driving, Paintballing, quad biking, clay pigeon shooting, archery and a variety of bespoke activities to suit every budget and group size. They aim to take you, your family, friends and colleagues to the edge and beyond. New activities every year, why not try the new super slide - over 200ft long. Coming soon: The longest Zip Line in Ireland and an all new ropes course.

Green Zone Combat

m Coast and Creek are currently

loading information and products onto their website and hope to have a full array of top quality paddle products available to buy online very soon. Feel free to browse the site and check back regularly to see what's been added! They want this to be your paddling website as much as theirs. Please e-mail them with any suggestions for content or layout, or particular brands you're finding it hard to get hold of. In the meantime, feel free to visit their shop in Ballymoney and check out their stock of kayaks, sit-on-tops, paddles, kayak clothing and accessories.

outdoor shops Jackson Sports

36 Drumsavage Road Hamiltonsbawn Co.Armagh BT60 1NE tel: 0777 2919 974 email: info@greenzonecombat.com web: www.greenzonecombat.com

m Airsoft specialists Green Zone Combat describe this combat sport as being "not

unlike paintball but with less pain, more vibrant, realistic game scenarios and better weaponry." Green Zone Combat is staged on five acres of land deep in the County Armagh countryside. The site is essentially a mix of open and built up areas - some with an almost urban feel and makes for a varied and intense gaming experience. Go away from a day's airsofting and you'll realise this isn't a sport - it's an obsession!

Battlefield sports N.I. Dundonald International Icebowl 111 Old Dundonald Road Belfast BT16 1XT tel: 028 9048 5462 mob: 0784 3203 497 email: info@battlefieldsportsni.com web: www.battlefieldsports.ni.com

m Battlefieldsports provide

outdoor/indoor laser combat games and airsoft. Games are run on a “challenge by choice system” which means that you decide what level of intensity and realism you want in the games before you start. For all games we provide clothing, hats/helmets and weapons and there are no hidden extras. We guarantee the best fun you will ever have no matter what level of game you are playing.

70 High Street, Belfast Antrim BT1 2B tel: 028 90 238 572 email: sales@jackson-sports.com web: www.jackson-sports.com

m Jackson Sports have been supplying specialist

outdoor clothing and equipment since 1967, building a reputation as a leading UK store for both mountain and water sports. Their employees are passionate about outdoor pursuits and are all involved in selecting the best quality gear for each purpose from hundreds of brands, to ensure you can choose from the best possible range. They stock thousands of specialist quality items and are continually adding to the product range, current lines include Lowe Alpine, Berghaus, Aniamal, Rab, Crux, Sprayway, Meindl, Marmot, Helly Hansen to name but a few - check the rest online

surfing Chasers Surf Tours Portrush, County Antrim tel: 07517 255 135 email: info@chaserssurftours.com web: www.chaserssurftours.com

m Chasers Surf Tours is

Irelands premiere surf tour operator. With over 20 years of surfing experience, Chasers will provide the ultimate experince. Our professionally trained drivers and guides will transport you from coast to coast searching for the best surf our island of Ireland can offer.

scuba D.V. Diving 138 Mountstewart Road, Corrowdore Newtownards, Down BT22 2ES tel: 028 9186 1686 email: info@dvdiving.co.uk web: www.dvdiving.co.uk

m DV Diving offer one of Europe's most

comprehensive ranges of scuba, technical and commercial diving and powerboat training courses - for the complete beginner through to instructor development for the most experienced professionals. Many visiting divers return each year attracted by the clear waters around County Down and the great diversity of dive sites. There are intact wrecks to explore, spectacular drop offs and exhilarating drift dives. All abilities can be catered for, choosing from the shelter of Strangford Lough with its wealth of marine life species in an unspoilt environment, to the more challenging, wreck strewn Irish Sea.

Adventure One Surf School & Shop School: Ballyheirnan Bay, Fanad, Co Donegal Shop: Kerrykeel, Co. Donegal tel: 074 91 50262 mob: 086 1931 747 email: iain@adventureone.net web: www.adventureone.net

m Adventure One surf school is the leading Irish Surfing Association approved school

on the north coast of donegal. The school is run by Iain Gilmour who has over 25 years surfing experience and has competed for most of that time placing in national finals both here in Ireland and in the Channel Islands. Being ISA approved means our instructors are fully qualified ISA coaches, RLSS beach lifeguards and are fully insured. This means that you the customer will be getting the best tuition in the funnest and safest way possible. The school caters for individuals, families, schools and corporate groups and is open from April to the end of October. Wetsuits and boards are provided.

ADVERTISE YOUR BUSINESS HERE FROM AS LITTLE AS £20 PER ISSUE Contact Andy today at email: andy@uberdogmagazine.co.uk telephone: 028 9065 5376 mobile: 077 0860 9872 80

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Navigate the North... ...with Ordnance Survey of Northern Ireland® (OSNI®) maps. If you’re an outdoor enthusiast, a keen driver or a tourist, then OSNI maps are for you! Check out the latest edition of the Discoverer Series for your area, or get out and about with an OSNI Activity Map. Whatever your interest, OSNI maps will help you find your way. For more information or to purchase OSNI maps online visit www.lpsni.gov.uk © Crown Copyright 2008. Anyone wishing to reproduce Land & Property Services material, or use it as a basis for further publication, must obtain a licence from our copyright branch. Ordnance Survey of Northern Ireland and OSNI are registered Trade Marks of Department of Finance and Personnel.

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? s l l a b e h t e Do you hapavintballs with every Game We do - 100 free

NEW: one of Europes largest inflatable slides* * clean underwear not provided

Basic paintball Package ÂŁ20 per person Includes a 3 hour game

and 100 free paintballs

today: For more Information contact us