Cyclist Ryan is pedalling a fast route to success
A young cyclist from Enniscorthy is fast earning a reputation as one of Ireland’s potential cycling stars of the future.
Ryan Byrne, from Glenbrien, won the green jersey in the recent Ras Maigho which was a great achievement as he was up against some of the best cyclists in Ireland as well as leading European professionals.
Ryan’s interest in cycling stems from his uncles’ involvement with the Slaney Cycling club.
Ryan himself was also a member of the same club before spending some time with the Wexford Wheelers.
His family have a long association with the Slaney club as his grandad, Ned, and granny, Mai, were also involved with the organisation as marshals during events.
Ryan is currently studying Design and Visual Communications at Carlow ITs, Wexford campus.
However, his love of cycling is something that has never waned and with his 21st birthday occurring last week winning the green jersey in the Mayo event was the perfect present.
Speaking to this newspaper his mother, Bernie, said Ryan’s goal is to become a professional cyclist.
He is now a member of the Arcane cycling team which has professionals and world championship winning medallists in its ranks so he is already in very good company.
However, such success doesn’t come easy and Ryan is very committed to his sport and spends many hours each week in the saddle honing his craft.
He won the green jersey in Mayo for his sprinting prowess which saw him win the event’s sprint prime.
The Mayo race was comprised of three stages over two days with one of the events being a gruelling hill climb at Croagh Patrick.
In addition to many Irish races Ryan has also participated in a number of international events.
Ryan’s long term ambition is that a pro cycling team with sign him up and if dedication, hard work and commitment are a recipe for success then few would bet against him following in the footsteps of cycling legends, Sean Kelly and Stephen Roche.