Gerry McManus Reports

Cycling Reports

Report on the Archer international Grand Prix

Sunday 1st April By Gerry McManus

Email: gerrymcmanus@yahoo.com

The new format of 'Team Ireland' earned some early success on Sunday, with a podium place for Tommy Evans in the Archer International Grand Prix. The Grand Prix was round 2 of the British 'Premier Series' and was held in Buckinghamshire. Tommy Evans, aged 28 and from Banbridge, Co Down, gained third place after a gruelling 118 miles in the rolling Chiltern Hills.

New Zealander, Gordon McCauley (Team Anzac) set the pace for most of the race, eventually winning on his own some 15 seconds ahead of a chase group of 15, which included Evans.

Following team orders, Stephen O'Sullivan and Timmy Barry, were sent up to front in the early stages, to police early breaks for former professional Morgan Fox and Evans. Fox uncharacteristically had to retire early, on the big circuit around Amersham and Princes Risborough.

At around half point, Evans missed a vital move, with around 20 riders joining forces to chase down the leaders. Seeing that he was stuck in a group with no ambition, Evans attacked with Scot, Jason MacIntyre (Velo Ecosse), to bridge a gap of over 2½ minutes. Miraculously, with only 2 miles to go, Evans caught the leading group. McCauley had already escaped on his own, with 3 others in pursuit. Evans still had enough to help catch the 3 riders with 200 metres to go and gain second place in the group sprint. Tim Barry had a creditable ride finishing 18th, at 42 seconds. A great ride considering he was only drafted in at the last minute to cover for the Brian Keneally, out due to illness.

Team Manager Declan Byrne, from Clonmel, was delighted with the team's performance. He was appointed team Manager in February, following the new team set-up, supported by lottery money and the Irish Cycling Federation. The scheme involves placing key riders in top French amateur teams but with full access to them for international events.

The race has the sports governing body, Union Cycliste International, accreditation and the Irish Team result helps them gain valuable points needed for qualification for world class events.

Archer International Result 1. Gordon McCauley Team Anzac 4h-16-18 2. Antony Malarczyk Atom Elite @ 15 sec. 3. Tommy Evans Ireland s.t 4. Colin Roshier Team Quest s.t 5. Mark Lovatt Ribble/Provision s.t 6. Kevin Dawson Pete Reade RT s.t 18. Tim Barry Ireland @ 42 sec. 60. Stephen O'Sullivan Ireland @ 9 min 42 sec.