2026 Week 3 Race Report

Orwell Wheelers riders delivered an impressive series of performances across multiple races over the weekend, showing strength in depth, aggressive racing, and podium success.

Lucan GP – Dublin

Lucan GP was one of the largest races of the year, run on a fast course just outside Dublin, with over 12 Orwell Wheelers riders taking to the start line across the categories.

C1

In the C1 race, Seán O’Kane was prominent throughout, making the decisive break of 10 riders early on. He remained there all day and finished a strong 8th place after an aggressive and committed ride.

C2

Matt Lynch put in a solid performance in the C2 race, riding consistently well and showing encouraging form ahead of racing in Mayo this weekend.

C3

The C3 race produced the standout result of the day. Matthew Lane took a superb solo victory after a day-long break, with Alexander Graham‑Smyth also present in the lead group throughout the race.

Behind them, the Orwell team rode with great control, covering moves and managing the peloton effectively. In the final kilometre, Kieran Keegan launched a well‑timed attack to finish 6th, while William Anton secured 10th in the bunch sprint, rounding off an excellent team performance.

Women’s Race :

Claire took a top 10 being attack all day.

Donal Crowley Memorial – Blarney, Co. Cork

Orwell Wheelers Cycling Club delivered a strong and aggressive performance at the Donal Crowley Memorial, playing a central role in shaping the outcome of the 140km race over rolling terrain.

From the early stages, Orwell riders were active and attentive, responding to attacks and ensuring consistent representation at the front of the race as moves developed.

A key moment came on the final lap when Evan Keane launched a decisive attack that forced a selection. He was joined by eventual winner Daire Feeley and Orwell teammate Liam Crowley, forming a powerful three‑man lead group.

Crowley showed excellent form throughout, making the crucial split and positioning himself perfectly for the finish. In the three‑up sprint for victory, he pushed hard to the line to secure an impressive 2nd place, while Keane capped off his aggressive ride with a deserved 3rd place.

Orwell’s influence extended beyond the podium. Riders contributed to chase efforts and attacks throughout the race, helping to neutralise long‑range moves and maintain pressure on rival teams. Further down the results, Padraig Moran finished inside the top ten after a strong ride in the chasing group, underlining the team’s depth.

C3 Race – Cork

In the C3 event, Orwell Wheelers were again represented near the front, with Alexander Graham‑Smyth finishing 5th at the head of the main chasing group. Following strong performances in Cork and Mayo, Alex will now be promoted to C2, marking a significant step forward in his racing progression.

St Patrick’s Day Race

Bobby Power Memorial 2026 – Co. Waterford

At the Bobby Power Memorial on St Patrick’s Day, Evan Keane once again showed his attacking intent. An early move saw him bridge solo up the road to the chasing group. He went on to finish 8th, narrowly missing out on 6th after an uphill sprint finish.

Liam Crowley continued his run of strong form with another solid day of racing, backing up his recent results.

Photos Sean Rowe and John Hammer