Bobby Crilly Classic

Sunday, 16 August 2026

The Orwell Wheeler's were represented at the Bobby Crilly Classic, promoted by Phoenix Cycling Club, on a wet morning on the outskirts of Belfast.

The men’s main event was initially halted after one lap of the original circuit due to the heavy volume of traffic on the course. At that stage, Luke had just managed to establish himself in the breakaway.

Once the race was restarted, the attacks came thick and fast, with Sean O’Kane making his way into one of the key moves. The wet and grippy road conditions made every ascent of the climb particularly demanding, with the repeated efforts taking their toll on the field.

On the final time through the main drag, Sean hesitated briefly, allowing the decisive move to get away. Despite this, he continued to fight to the finish and came home in an excellent 7th place, with plenty more left in the tank.

Luke also battled hard to the finish, taking 16th place.

In the ladies’ race, Claire continues her preparations for the Rás with another solid performance, taking 8th place.

Claire now turns her attention to Tuesday night’s racing, while the men will be preparing for the ICL on Thursday.

Well done to all.- Toby Watson photo