That's because when Billy Maxwell crosses the line on the Rathfriland Road circuit it will be the final time he does so in a Wheelers race.

Billy is retiring after spending over an incredible four decades in the saddle which have provided him with plenty of happy memories.

"I'm 64 years of age and while I still feel fit enough to be on the bike it is a long time to be cycling," said Billy.

"I've been cycling now for 46 years and I think it's time I had a bit of a rest.

"I first started in 1962 and I won my first race in 1963 on the Dromore Road with a 23.11. That is not a bad time at all, especially when you consider some of the guys today are only just breaking into the 23 minute mark.

"Then I got married in 1964 and that slowed me down a bit," Billy joked.

The 1970's were certainly the glory years for Billy with success throughout the decade both at club level and at a national level too.

"In 1973 I was top in the Northern Ireland 100 Mile Championship and then in 1974 I won all 17 races in the club's season," he said.

"I've won well over 100 races and I've competed in over 700 races and all without any aches or pains.

TRAFFIC

"When I left the Shoe Factory I went around part of the coast after work and got back home for 8.30pm. Back then though there was hardly any traffic on the roads whereas now it's much more dangerous."

While Billy might be getting off his saddle he will still be involved with the Wheelers, the club he is currently Chairman of.

"I'll still be involved next year doing bits and pieces," he said.

"There'll be a few more members joining next year but it's very hard to get young people involved these days because there's so many distractions for them now.

"The man to beat these days is Paul Wilkinson, he has won virtually every trophy the club has this year. I actually raced with his uncle Thomas in the 70's and it's good to now have his nephew on board as the club's top man."

Ironically Billy's last race is on the circuit which he has enjoyed most success on - the Rathfriland Road course.

"It has always been by favourite because it's the hardest circuit but I've always managed to get my fastest time on it. I'll just be going out there and enjoying myself," he said.