The 2015 National Youth Championships was hosted this weekend by Westport Covey Wheelers in Conjunction with Cycling Ireland. Individual titles contested in age categories U11, U12, U13, U14, U15, and U16 for boys and U12, U14, and U16 for Girls in Time Trail, Road Race, and Criterium were up for grabs.
As the championship form an important part of Ireland’s strong cycling heritage the event is designed to identify the best young cyclists within the talent pool. As such it created a pure festival of cycling in and around the town of Westport.
Starting with a ‘Links’ type TT where Cyclists raced 8KM along the Wild Atlantic Way, from Murrisk to Westport, followed by the Aughagower Road Race. The road race circuit was designed as a Miniature Version of a grand tour stage with a serious Hill finish for the U15 & U16 Athletes something new to the format.
The event culminated with the adrenaline filled Westport Criterium which created a natural auditorium for the young rider which regardless of finishing position will motivate to improve their fitness and cycling skills.
The highlight of the weekend was the presentation of the Westport Championship Spin 11 Jersey's by Josie Knight to the girls, and Anthony Murray to the boys.
Back Row: L-R Amanda Gallagher, Tom Moriarty, Adam Ward, Luke Smith, Xeno Young, Tom Knight, Mark Smith, Aaron Doherty, Mark Mc Garry
Middle Row: L-R Mia Simmons, Maeve Gallagher, Dan Curtin, Jack Watson, Pat Moss, Adam Mc Geever, Odhran Doogan,
Front Row: Orla Desmond, Shauna Mc Fadden