Armstrong takes on Errigal International Youth Tour 2019

Last weekend James Armstrong (Dromara CC) took on his biggest road challenge to date by competing in the Errigal International Youth Tour. The event was hosted by Errigal Cycling Club. 239 competitors took part from U12, U14 and U16 with riders coming from Scotland, England, Isle of Man, Belgium and even a rider from Malta, not to forget the large local entry from the four provinces.

The event comprised four stages over three days. Before the event James had only competed in one road race so this would be a steep learning curve. He was competing as a first year U12 (under 11).

The idyllic village of Churchill played host to the first stage on Saturday afternoon which comprised one lap of a 6 mile circuit containing two major climbs. James held his nerve in a bunch of 46 and returned 25^th (8^th U11) before the heavens opened.

It was an early start on Sunday morning for stage 2 which would see the riders take part in a 3km TT Hillclimb which started in Dunlewey at the foot of Mount Errigal. Hundreds of supporters enjoyed the breathtaking views as they waived their riders off into the strong headwind. James finished 20^th (7^th U11).

It was a short drive to Derrybeg where an industrial estate played host to stage 3 the Crit. For a period of time the industrial estate was shut down by hundreds of riders and their entourage. The circuit comprised 24 corners, some speed bumps and a loading bay ramp. This would make for entertaining racing. James was in his element and was sitting in the top ten for most of the race only to get outsprinted in the last 100metres. He finished 17^th (5^th U11). He commented that the buzz he got was nearly as good as mountain biking!

Monday would see a return to Churchill for the fourth and final stage. This time the U16’s raced first at 8.00am. Rural bus routes where changed and nobody seemed to think it odd that hundreds of supporters lined a rural road in the village whilst others tried to get to their work.  The stage is known as Keeloges and finishes on top of a major climb.

Last race of the day and of the event was the U12 and after a start line crash the race was eventually restarted. It was a nervous wait for parents when a 40 strong swarm of U12 disappeared out of view and down a sketchy fast descent. James stayed in the lead bunch until the final climb and through determination finished 18^th (4^th U11).

Overall James finished the weekend in 19^th place, 5^th U11 and was happy with his first attempt at stage racing. Roll on next year.

Errigal Cycling Club the sponsors and the residents of Churchill deserve huge credit for this event. Long may it continue.

Ps. James sister Anna thoroughly enjoyed the weekend as she tested out numerous play parks throughout Donegal.

Excellent Report from Neil Armstrong