Clonmel Mountain Bike Club's first event was a huge success

Above: Some of the competitors who took part in the Clonmel Mountain Bike Club’s first official competitive event held on Sunday, May 21 in Russellstown Wood near Clonmel. Pictures: Gareth Gibson and Richard Quinn 

There was universal praise and positive feedback from competitors in Clonmel Mountain Bike Club (CMBC)’s first official competitive event held on Sunday May 21 in Russellstown Wood near Clonmel.

This was Round 3 in the national Grassroots Enduro series, where 250 competitors in eleven classes were timed over three mountain stages using electronic timing chips.

CMBC members had been preparing for the big day over recent months and preparing flowing yet challenging trails that included chutes, berms and switchback features, all designed to test skills and stamina in this increasingly popular branch of cycle sport. The event attracted competitors from all over Ireland including big name stars Gavin Carroll, Jonathan and Leah Maunsell and Jamie O’Callaghan.

CMBC riders performed exceptionally well against this stiff competition. Cian Flaherty placed second in the under 17s, Conor Flaherty placed second in the under 21s. Cian Flaherty’s results ranked him seventh in the overall standings, a great achievement as five of the riders ahead of him compete at the highest level of the sport in the Enduro World Series.

The event successfully showcased the amazing potential for mountain biking to continue to grow in the Clonmel area. The close proximity of fantastic trails to town residents makes this sport ideally suited to riders of all ages who can access the woods on two wheels and enjoy an exciting sport on our doorstep.

Mountain biking, along with kayaking on the Suir, also position Clonmel as a future national adventure sports mecca, complementing the town’s already solid hill walking and road cycling reputation. These activities all contribute positively to the tourism and hospitality trade.

Club members wish to thank all the local businesses and individuals who helped to make the event a success: Suir Valley Cycles, Glenpatrick Spring Water, Tom Doran, Clonmel Cycle Club, Q Leisure, Fetch Coffee, Fieldmaster, Philippe Hetier Bespoke Furniture, Maher Plant Hire and Rebecca Keogh music.

Thanks also to Coillte and Tipperary Civil Defence.

For details of club membership and coaching events, visit www.cmbc.ie.