Some random pictures of the Irish Team in the two week stage race across Poland from 21st to 31st July 1985 taken by Peter Purfield.

In the 70's and 80's the eastern block countries had some of the best cyclists in the world, a time when Russian, East German, Polish and Czech teams were on a different level to the western riders. This was an opportunity for Irish riders to, see for themselves the standard of racing behind the Iron Curtain.

Paul Kimmage wrote an article after the race, here's a quote from his piece - The Tour of Poland was one of the hardest races I was ever on. We suffered from poor accommodation and very poor food. Every day in every town on the route there were huge crowds and we were constantly swarmed for autographs. The route. was the worst I had ever seen, totally flat but the organisers say that next year they will bring it into the mountains.

However Paul added - Those that went this year certainly did not regret it and it opened all our eyes and with better back up in terms of bringing more food, we might be more competitive.

Irish Team Riders:

Stephen Delaney
Mick Kinsella
Martin O'Grady
Raphael Kimmage
John McQuaid
Paul Kimmage

Team Officials:
Manager: Brendan Madden
Masseur: Damien Lyle-Stirling
Mechanic: Peter Purfield

Video Compilation: Peter Purfield

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