Sean Boland
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There is just one race left in the Dan Morrissey Carrick Wheelers mountain bike league and at this vital stage Lee Byrne and Sam Bennett have moved into the overall lead in their respective events.
Lee Byrne has been the most consistent rider in the one lap event over the league series, and despite the fact that he finished only fourth on Sunday last, this was enough to move him into the overall lead.
The race was won for the second week in a row by the fast improving Shane O’Dwyer, who came home a mere nine seconds ahead of Sean Boland, with Eoin Kelly a further forty seconds back in third.
Behind these the battle for the overall lead was taking place, and Lee Byrne gave it his all to catch and pass Byran Alton and take the vital fourth place.
In the two-lap event for the older riders, conditions on their route through the wood were more difficult than usual after some work taking place during the week, but they made light of the problems and all came through to finish in fine style.
Lee Byrne
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Despite a huge time handicap of 9 minutes 30 seconds behind the first rider off, Sam Bennett showed his class by storming past everyone and scoring a very impressive win to take the overall lead. Daniel King battled bravely to hold on for second, just 2 seconds ahead of the fast finishing Dermot Cronin.
So with only next Sundays race left, it could not be closer at the top of the one lap event with Lee Byrne on 43 points and Bryan Alton just one point behind on 42. The winner will come from one of these two, as Eoin Kelly and Shane O’Dwyer are tied third on 34 points each.
In the two lapper Sam Bennett now has 59 points to Gary Cloona’s 55, but with ten points for a win, it is possible for Gary to win, and there is also a good battle for third between Dermot Cronin on 50 and Daniel King on 48.
Prizes generously sponsored by O’Ceallachains Bar of Main St, Carrick-on-Suir will be presented after Sunday race, so hopefully there will be a good crowd of family and friends at the finish to cheer for all the young cyclists after a great 10 weeks racing.
Owen Kelly making a dash for the finish line
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---- Some Questions Answered: ----
Where and when do we meet for these events? - Seskin Wood, every Sunday morning at 12pm.
Are they handicap or massed start events? - All the races are on a handicap basis, so they are ideal for beginners.
What age group do you cater for? - 10 to 16 year olds
Who should someone contact if they need more info? - Bobby Power or Paul Lonergan, club secretary Tel: 086-8718433
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IrishCycling.com would like to thank Joe Cashin for sending us in the report and pictures.