Doing SERC proud!
Ronan, Luke and Cian in fine form
THE 50th edition of the Gorey 3 Day cycle race took place over the Easter Weekend with South East Road Club (SERC) entering a four-man team to participate in one of the toughest cycle stage races held in Ireland for A2/A3 and Junior riders.
SERC was proudly represented by Ronan Short, Luke Kearney, Cian Keogh and guest rider Ryan Byrne from neighbouring club Slaney. Famous winners of this race include Sean Kelly, Mark Scanlon and Dan Martin and this only highlights the calibre of riders taking part.
127 riders rolled out on Easter Saturday for stage 1 comprising of 103 km from Blessington through Hacketstown, Carnew, Crannford, Gorey and back to the finish on the steep climb in Crannford Village.
A staggering average pace of 42kph confirmed the talent on show and while a breakaway group contested for honours with JB Murphy claiming stage victory, all SERC riders got through stage 1 safe and sound.
Stage 2 on Easter Sunday comprised of 5 laps around Gorey and Crannford totalling 120km with again an average pace of 39kph showing these riders meant business on day two.
Dylan Hughes on a lone breakaway just managed to stay away and claim victory with the main group closing fast in the final few metres.
Stage 3 was a return 91km trip back to Blessington were Alex Ridehalagh won a bunch sprint. All at SERC would like to congratulate Ronan, Liam, Cian and Ryan on undertaking this gruelling three-day race and commend them for the months of training that goes into competing at this level.
A huge amount of work goes into supporting the riders in the lead up to this event and over the Easter weekend. These members give up their holiday weekend to cater to the lads every need and a huge thank you and appreciation to Jason O’Toole (team manager), Willie Murphy, Michael Forde, Tony Barnes, Conor Short and Jay Earls for all their help over the weekend.