In a dramatic sprint finish Tom Mazzone representing the Isle of Man got the verdict to win the first stage of the Kerry Group Mumhan in Killorglin after 100 kilometers this afternoon. It was truly an international end to the stage with Italian Matteo Ciagala of Aqua Blue second, with Paudi O’Brien (Ireland) representing the host club Killorglin CC in third place, all three separated by the finish line camera.
From the start in Killorglin, the pace was fast and furious with numerous attempts by breakaway groups to take advantage. But the field of 178 starters were in no mood to let groups who edged to gain any advantage and in the end it came down to mad dash to the line with Mazzone taking honours and will tomorrow lead the race in the distinctive yellow jersey as race leader when the event transfers to Listowel for stage two of 130 kilometers where the competitors will have a number of climbs to test their mettle. Start time is 11am with the finish in Athea at approximately 14.00 hours.
KERRY GROUP RAS MUMHAN
Stage one- Killorglin-Sliabh Luachra-Killorglin, 100km
1-T. Mazzone (Isle of Man), 2hrs.11mins. 25secs;
2-M. Ciagala (Aqua Blue ((, same time;
3-P. O’Brien Killorglin CC), st;
4-A. Stenson (Team Ireland Under 23);
5-D. Kirwan (Waterford Racing), st;
6-S. Kennett (Surrey Racing) st;
7-C. Moynihan (Tralee Manor West ibike);
8-S. Shanahan ((Killarney Cycling Black);
10-O. Line (VCUK Velochampion).
Overall- Mozzone;
Points-Ciagala;
Under-23-Stenson;
King of hills-S. Lacey (Aqua Blue).
A2 leader-R. Young (Team Bikeworx, Celbridge).