Bronze medal for Conor Kavangh at the National XC Championships

The 2013 National Mountain Bike Cross-Country Championships took place in Garvagh Forest in the town of Garvagh on Sunday 21st July and was hosted by Carn Wheelers.  The timing for the race was perfect after a 2 week heat wave in Ireland which left the trails bone dry and dusty.  Carn Wheelers had put in a huge effort in creating the trails with lots of variety, from long fire roads allowing ample overtaking possibilities to fast flowing single track, bomb holes, dual slalom descents and only two notable short climbs.  The race village was set up in the abandoned school grounds which had lots of parking for the large attendance (over 250 riders from all across Ireland).  5 Cuchulainns travelled to Garvagh to race in the various categories, from Under 16 to Elite.  All the riders who rode at the Nationals said the course was excellent, very technical in places, but very enjoyable.

Honours on the day went to Conor Kavanagh who battled it out with 4^th placed rider David Conroy to earn a well deserved 3^rd place and a bronze medal in the Under 16 category.

Ray O’Shaughnessy, probably in his best form after competing in the Ras, on the day was just lacking in pace against the “Big Guns” who turned out for the Elite race, Ray finished very strongly in 4^th place.  It’s needless to say Robin Seymour retained his Irish National title, again!

Gary Sheils and Martin O’Hagan raced in the Veterans category.  Martin unfortunately had mechanical issues and had to withdraw after the 1st lap of the 4 lap race, meanwhile Gary had a great race, beating riders who he would not normally do in normal XC NPS rounds.  Gary finished a very credible 7^th place, job well done.

Fergus McCann raced in the Senior 4 race which was a support race and also for those who didn’t manage to register in time for the Championship categories.  Fergus like Gary had a good race and finished very strongly in the top 15.