It's been 33 years since I last attended a cyclo-cross race; that was in Dublin's Phoenix Park, and if my memory is correct, Julian Dalby took the win that day. Back then the sport of cyclo-cross didn't have much of a following in Ireland, but things have certainly changed since 1986.
Out of pure curiosity I travelled to Killruddery yesterday, where Bray Wheelers hosted the third round of The Leinster League of Cyclo-Cross. A wonderful spectator sport that has to be one of cycling's most grueling of disciplines. Here is a small collection of photographs which I captured on the day.
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david says: Thanks Liz.
Richard Conroy says: Brilliant shots, Black and white really capture the atmosphere
david says: I’m a big fan of black & white Richard. Thanks for your comment.
Stephen says: Incredible shots David. I remember Julian Dalby, but I didn’t know he did cyclo-cross…who was his big rival, there was two of them cleaning up around that time. John something? They were clinical.
david says: That would be John Sheehan. Thanks Stephen.
Stephen says: Yes indeedy, John Sheehan. Great days for Irish cycling. Nice interview with him here http://www.stickybottle.com/latest-news/video-we-look-back-at-ras-tailteann-89-and-speak-to-one-of-its-best-john-sheehan/
John Nolan says: Great photos, really brings to life the rawness of the day.
david says: Thanks John; what a day indeed; gritty and raw.
Michael Moore says: Unreal photos.
david says: Thanks Michael.
Terence O Neill says: Great photos David certainly captures the day
Still picking bits of tape out of my drive train
david says: Yes, sprockets mixed with plastic tape can slow you down for sure. Glad you like the photos Terence.
David says: fantastic photos David – you really captured just how muddy it was, how muddy the bikes were and how muddy the riders got!
david says: Thanks David; all I did was photograph what I saw: mud, muddy riders and big puddles.
They are fab well done David thank you