The cycling feast coming to a street near you!
There’s just over a week to go until the start of the 2014 National Cycling Championships (in association with Grange Motors, Mullingar), which take place along the highways and byways of north Westmeath on June 26, 28 and 29.
The prestigious event, which will be directed by Mullingar’s own Lakeside Wheelers Cycling Club, will see Ireland’s top professional cyclists descend on these parts to compete against the cream of amateur cyclists, including Mullingar’s Damien Shaw.
The racing kicks off with the Time Trial on the evening of Thursday June 26 in Rochfortbridge. The 37km course on the old N6 between Kinnegad and Tyrrellspass, starting and finishing in Rochfortbidge.
Nicolas Roche, the pro cyclist who finished in the top 10 in the Vuelta A Espana in 2013, has indicated his intention to ride in both Time Trial and Elite Road Race.
On Saturday June 28 and Sunday June 29, the focus of attention turns to the award winning village of Multyfarnham where riders will compete over a hilly and challenging circuit of 19km for a total distance of 114km.
Saturday will see the Ladies and Veterans take to the start line for six laps that brings them through gorgeous Westmeath countryside via Ballinafid, Crookedwood and back to Multyfarnham.
On Sunday the 2013 champion Matt Brammeier will line up to defend his title against competitors such as Nicholas Roche, Dan Martin, stage winner in the 2013 Tour de France and Martyn Irvine, 2013 World track Champion and our own Damien Shaw, bronze medal winner in 2013.
The elite senior race will consist of ten laps for a total distance of 190km.
Over 400 racers are expected to visit Mullingar, Rochfortbridge and Multy together with their families, friends and support teams over the weekend.