|
|
|
Last Updated: Sep 6th, 2008 - 17:10:49 |
 |
| Sam Bennett |
Carrick on Suir youngster Sam Bennett last night lived up to the hype that has seen him labelled the next Sean Kelly when he claimed Ireland's first ever European title when he won the points race at the junior (under 18) European track championships in Poland.
17-year-old Leaving Cert Student Bennett qualified for the event when he finished third in the semi finals. The Dan Morrissey club rider showed good form there when beating the current junior world champion in the sprints during the race.
In the final, Bennett attacked from the gun and lapped the main field within minutes of the start, gaining 20 points for his efforts.
With Irelands other points race finallist Sean Downey closing down all attacks from the opposition in a fantastic display of teamwork, Bennett picked up another nine points during the race to confirm his dominance of the event and claim Ireland's first ever European title.
With no velodrome in Ireland, the Irish juniors had to utilise the track in Gent, Belgium, staying at the Sean Kelly Academy in Belgium prior to the event in order to gain precious track time and experience.
Yesterday was only Bennett's third time on the velodrome this year as the Leaving Cert student took a break to concentrate on his studies earlier in the year. The Irish Examiner young sports star of the year from Carrickbeg, near Carrick on Suir, Bennett has already had an amazing seasom taking the national road race championhips and the M Donnelly Junior Tour of Ireland this year.
|
|
|
|
