Quote from Noel McGlynn, Team Manager:
"We went out with the stated goal of having one of the U23's pick up UCI points with a top 25 placing. With Michael O'Loughlin not fit to travel, and Daire Feeley getting involved in an early crash, we knew that the team would have an extra hard job, but I'm delighted in their performance and ability to keep to the plan"
"Eoin Morton made one of the first breaks of the day and was aggressive in the early attacks and played a great support role later on. Ian Richardson's role to keep Eddie Dunbar paced and out of trouble until the final lap was executed perfectly, and Damien Shaw put in a powerful performance to keep Eddie in the front group right to the final attack on Manayunk Wall. With 1km to go Eddie was in contention for the win but despite the larger teams pacing their leaders to the foot of the climb, he ended up in 17th place which also saw him take 3rd U23 rider"
"Overall the race has shown the advantages of having teams with experienced elite riders to help our U23's score additional UCI points. These points gained should help towards World Championship participation while the tough racing has provided riders valuable experience at riding at UCI 1.1's"
Beaumont Trophy
Quote from Martin O'Loughlin, Team Manager:
"Our riders showed that they have what it takes to compete at pro level. Eoin Morton followed team orders and went with the early attack, claiming three of the five sprints and winning the sprints classification.
Damien Shaw lit up the race after 100km and initiated the race-winning move of the day. Ian Richardson made the selection and looked comfortable.
Rain in the last hour changed the conditions completely with a number of riders falling. Unfortunately firstly Ian and then Damien fell, suffering cuts and bruises, but no serious damage.
It was a case of what might have been for us. The results didn't reflect the excellent performances."