Ras na mBan

Stage 1

The Ring of Kerry is known for its small, narrow, winding roads and certainly the first 10 miles of today's stage fitted that description. With teams from Germany, Belgium, Holland and Ireland (including the Irish National Team) the general standard of riders' abilities varied from Elites to club riders.

After five miles, eighteen riders had been dropped from the main bunch and after 17 miles, 35 riders had been dropped, mainly due to the fast pace of the main bunch. 

However, at the front of the race Squadra Donne/Shutt Velo Rapide/Bikefood were with the leading group. At 19 miles the sinuous, renowned 6 mile climb of Moll's Gap began (thankfully not into the clouds!) Halfway up the climb Vicky had a mechanical, dropping from the main bunch, causing her to spend the rest of the race chasing back on to the group. At one stage she was within 100 metres of regaining her place in the bunch...

Approaching the finish the riders prepared for the sprint; Squadra Donne were well placed to figure in the team award.   

Tomorrow, Saturday, sees two stages: a 60km road race in the morning followed by an individual time trial in the afternoon. 

Results

8 Naomi
14 Sarah
15 Iona
31 Steph
34 Vicky

Great work girls! Squadra Donne are 5th in the team standings.