An Post Chain reaction’s most recent recruit, Sean McKenna (IRL) will be the sole Irish rider in a six man team for the Kampioenschap van Vlaanderen (1.1) in Belgium this Friday. McKenna will be joined by teammates Emiel Wastyn (BLG), Oliver Kent-Spark (AUS), Jake Scott (ENG), Nicholas Vereecken (BEL), and Jasper Bovenhuis (NDL) as he looks to establish himself on a European stage.


The young rider recently joined up with the An Post team on a permanent basis last month after completing his studies and is expected to make a big contribution to the team. Friday’s gruelling 192 kilometre route, paved with the famous cobbles and tricky inclines will be a good test for the 20 year-old. Team Manager Kurt Bogearts believes McKenna has the mentality to take it in his stride:


“He had been dominating in Ireland this year, but racing on the European stage is completely different. It’s great to be able to give him the exposure and let him learn for himself what he can work on. He’s had some great racing so far, but it will be fun to see how he progresses with more International race experience in his legs. He’s got an excellent mentality though so I know he is capable.”


The An Post team go in to Friday’s race off the back of a strong showing at last week’s Tour of Britain (2.HC). Dutch rider Jasper Bovenhuis claimed the Yodel Sprints classification jersey on the opening stage and held the title for the remainder of the eight day tour, eventually being awarded the top sprinter – a superb accolade considering the strength of the field.


Ireland’s Damien Shaw also rose to the challenge and made strong contributions in his highest ranked race to date. In light of his performance, he has been selected by Cycling Ireland to compete in the UEC European Road Championships in Plumelec, Brittany. The Mullingar man will be in action on Sunday, 18th September as part of the Irish Team taking on the 234 kilometre race.


An Post Team for Kampioenschap van Vlaanderen, Belgium (1.1) - 16th September 201

Sean McKenna (IRL)

Emiel Wastyn (BLG)

Oliver Kent-Spark (AUS)

Jake Scott (ENG)

Nicholas Vereecken (BEL)

Jasper Bovenhuis (NDL)