CYCLING: : Last week's world championships yielded nothing in the way of medals, but the races in Zolder were encouraging nonetheless for Irish cycling.
Strong performances, some solid results and a new attitude from Irish riders were all in evidence in Belgium, prompting the expectation that a brighter future is in store.
Mark Scanlon's talent was proven long before he lined out in last Friday's under-23 road race, yet his display there was further confirmation that the Sligoman will go a long way in the sport.
Riding with a calm confidence early on, the 1998 junior champion spearheaded a breakaway group 10 km from the end and drove the pace strongly at the front of the move.
While the reluctance of his fellow escapees to contribute to the pace-making caused the break to be reeled in 5 km later, Scanlon's power and aggression were obvious to all watching.
His determination too was underlined when he gathered what was left of his strength and fought his way towards the front for the finishing sprint; indeed a top-six placing looked possible until a large pile-up inches from his front wheel caused him to ease back and lose his chance. He will get many more opportunities next year as a professional with AG2r.
Nicolas Roche was similarly aggressive in the junior race. Involved in the most significant move of the day, he too was frustrated by negative tactics and the flat nature of the course, but on a tougher circuit could well have stayed clear and been sprinting for a medal at the finish.
The performance of David O'Loughlin in the elite road race should also be highlighted; 65th place may sound modest, but a first-year professional finishing this high against the world's best was a very commendable achievement.
Equally impressive was the confident, unified sprit displayed during the championships.
Each rider rode to the limit of their capabilities, with Scanlon's under-23 team-mates in particular standing out as examples of what a squad should do.
Dedicating themselves to the team captain from the drop of the flag, they took the race to the more experienced nations and selflessly rode themselves into the ground to give Scanlon the best possible chance of a medal.
Much of this spirit was born from the time spent preparing for the championships in the Team Ireland base in Belgium.
The venture serves to bring on riders through regular international competition, but also fosters a team unity which should prove invaluable in years to come.
WEEKEND FIXTURES
Saturday: Cyclo cross league round one, Lurgan Park, Co Armagh. Underage starts noon, main event at 1 p.m.
For more information contact Myles on (004428) 38 348627.
