2026 April 25-26 Race Report

Waller Cup, Bohermeen

Orwell Wheelers delivered a strong and cohesive team performance at the Waller Cup promotion in Bohermeen, with the club particularly prominent in the feature C1 race and well represented across the supporting events.

In a fast and aggressively ridden C1 contest, the early phase of the race was marked by a relentless pace, with the opening 70 minutes covered at an average of 48km/h. Orwell Wheelers were to the fore throughout, with Joe Nathan, Sean O’Kane and Sean Lander all actively involved in a key breakaway during the 130km race, ensuring the club was consistently represented at the head of proceedings.

As the race developed, Evan Keane emerged as Orwell’s leading finisher, producing an excellent ride to secure 2nd place against a high-calibre field. His result was the culmination of a well-executed team effort, with Luke Keaney playing a crucial role in the closing stages by delivering a strong lead-out into the uphill finish. Keaney, who remained competitive throughout, went on to finish 11th, while Liam Crowley also rode strongly to take 13th place. Collectively, the performances of the six Orwell riders reflected a committed and tactically astute display.

In the C2 Thomas Tuite Memorial Cup, Matthew Lane represented the club with a solid ride to 12th place, holding position in a competitive and fast-moving race.

Orwell Wheelers were also represented in the C3 event, where David Greene rode strongly to finish 19th, gaining further valuable race experience in a large and active field.

In the women’s Michael & Nancy McHugh Cup, Orwell Wheelers again featured well, with Grainne O’Callaghan finishing in 8th place following a determined ride, while Carmel Moran secured 14th position. Both riders performed strongly in a competitive race, maintaining the club’s presence in the top half of the standings.

Special thanks are due to the support crew who worked tirelessly throughout the day, ensuring riders were well supplied with bottles and support from the team car. Credit also goes to Directeur Sportif Neal Hudson, who made the journey to Bohermeen after racing earlier that morning to support the team.