TriBikes Loughrea GP 2013 – Race Report
U14
Declan Maloney took part in his first U14 race. 12 racers took part in a challenging 17.5km circuit.
From the outset Declan made attack after attack which saw the group shrink down to 3 riders who would all contest for the win.
The final 3km of 17.5km course (like the senior racers found out later) was straight into a strong head wind, yet despite this Declan managed to sprint well and take the victory.
Unfortunately due to a technical issue Declan was disqualified under racing rules however there is no doubt that this youngster is full of ability and one to watch for the future. Well done Declan.
A1/A2/A3
In the A1/A2/A3 the Coveys had 4 riders. Ger Corcoran and Colm Staunton got into the main break of the day on the first of a six laps while Padraic Conway and Keith O’Connell stayed in the bunch for the scratch group to catch.
The race was a tough 102km circuit on a windy day which took its toll as there were bodies everywhere.
The break stayed away for 68k when Charles Prendercast, Liam Frawley and Paddy Clarke the eventual podium finishers split that group also and retained the lead until the finish line.
Padraic Conway managed to squeeze a top ten for his efforts while Ger and Colm’s efforts were unsuccessful this time round.
A4
The A4 race was represented by James McGreevy, Colin Kelly, Micheal Flynn, Dermot Warde, Aichlinn O Reilly, Noel Mulroy, Tom Burke, Oliver Whyte, Noreen O Toole, Anthony Chappat and Patjoe O’Connell.
The route was a flat 3 lap circuit totalling 52km.
There was a notable strong performance from the majority of the Coveys who stayed in the peloton up to the final sprint.
Dermot had a nasty fall inside the last 800 metres and was in a strong position as a points contender before his crash. Fortunately he was able get up and brush off the scraps and bruises.
Fair play also to Noreen O Toole who also participated in the A4 race as the only woman. Great to see her take the step up and we would encourage other women to follow suit.
Best result of the day in the A4 category was Tom Burke clinching 5th place which moves him up to A3 racing.
Mutual consensus is that it was a great race hosted by Seven Springs Club.
Focus now turns to one of the year’s most important races – Ras Mhaigheo Westport 18th March.
Race Report by Anthony Chappat
