FRIENDS FIRST and St Tiernan’s Cycling Club have launched the 2016 Friends First Laragh Classic, announcing an increase in prize money for the pioneering Wicklow race.
As the closing race of the domestic cycling season, the Friends First Laragh Classic presents a last chance for riders to fight for an elusive result. This year an increased prize fund for the main race will see the overall winner collect a cash prize of €300, as well as the now fabled Wicklow granite cobble trophy. The total prize fund for the event has been further increased thanks to the continued support of our title sponsor Friends First.
Weaving through the heart of the Garden County, the dramatic 24km circuit presents riders with a challenging climb, tough inclines and a fast-paced descent through the stunning village of Laragh, all tackled a number of times. The technical and demanding surfaces on sections of the course promise a real test of skill for competitors and an authentic taste of European-style classic racing.
Race organizer Brian Hayden is aware of how tough a challenge the race proves for the riders. “The varying elevations of the topography, the harsh road surfaces and the fast paced nature of the attacking racing a course like this promotes, means the winners of each race are always deserved.”
“It is a reflection on the quality field it attracts that we have had national champions and international level riders take home the honours in the short history of the event. A tough race will always bring out the best.”
In addition, the finish, situated just before the T-junction that brings you onto the R763 between Annamoe and Ashford, follows a demanding incline which will have the potential to split the fields on the day.
With four race categories on the day, racing is open to senior men, ladies and juniors. For the second year running the race will incorporate the Leinster championships however all races are open to non-Leinster riders.
Race Information
Race date: Sunday 11th September 2016
Race categories:
1.Friends First Laragh Classic: A1/A2* – 116kms, (4.5 laps)
2.Martin Vereker Memorial: A3* – 87kms (3.5 laps)
3.Friends First Laragh Classic: A4 – 64kms (2.5 laps)
Sign on time: 09:30 – 10:45
All Races start: 11:00
Sign on location and event HQ: The Brockagh Resource Centre, Laragh, Co. Wicklow
For further information on the 2016 Friends First Laragh Classic please visit: http://www.sttiernanscc.com/friends-first-laragh-classic-2016/
or contact info@sttiernanscc.com
*Please note that the race organisers reserve the right to combine the A1/2 and A3 races into one single handicapped race on the day if required.
Each race will be restricted to 80 riders and entries are now open online: [https://register.primoevents.com/ps/event/LaraghClassic2016]
Please enter early to avoid disappointment as both the A4 and A3 races will fill prior to race day.
