Des Hanlon Memorial

Crowley Storms to Podium in Epic Battle

at Des Hanlon Memorial.

Des Hanlon Memorial once again delivered one of the toughest tests on the domestic calendar, and Pinergy Orwell Wheelers’ Liam Crowley rose to the occasion with a superb ride to second place after an aggressive and intelligent performance from start to finish.

Raced in brutal wet and windy conditions more typical of early spring in Ireland than the recent sunshine of southern Europe, this year’s edition was attritional from the outset. The race split early, regrouped, and then fractured again as the strongest riders forced the issue across exposed roads and rolling terrain.

Crowley was alert throughout, marking the key selections and ensuring Orwell Wheelers were represented when it mattered most. After an initial break was reeled in, the decisive move formed following a bold attack from junior Hugh Óg Mulhearne. When the elastic snapped in the bunch,

Crowley was right where he needed to be — in the front group that would ultimately decide the race.

That select move included several of the strongest riders in the country, but Crowley never missed a beat. As the kilometres ticked down and the crosswinds tore through the bunch, he remained composed and economical, conserving energy while others were forced to chase.

The defining moment came after the penultimate climb when Conn McDunphy launched a fierce attack in an exposed section. Crowley reacted immediately, bridging across and committing to the move. From there, the pair worked together to build a gap, with Jack Conroy later joining to form a leading trio heading into the decisive 4km final ascent.

What followed was a gripping tactical battle. McDunphy repeatedly surged into the headwind in an attempt to shed Crowley before the line — fully aware of the Orwell rider’s finishing speed. Each time, Crowley responded calmly and confidently, matching every acceleration and refusing to yield.

As Conroy was finally distanced, it came down to a two-man duel.

McDunphy led out the sprint on the uphill drag to the finish, but Crowley came around strongly and edged ahead in the closing metres. In a thrilling bike throw to the line, he was narrowly pipped in the final moments — an agonisingly close second in one of the most prestigious races on the Irish calendar.

It was a ride that underlined Crowley’s strength and on another day, the result could easily have gone his way.

Sean O Kane had solid ride taking P20 after suffering rear puncture.

Orwell Wheelers were prominent throughout the day across multiple races.

In the women’s event, Claire Diffley produced a strong and determined performance to take 5th place, battling the harsh conditions with composure. Her ride continues a steady progression in form and confidence, particularly impressive as she balances her racing campaign with her status as reigning Masters Irish Champion.

Fellow Orwell rider Yvonne Doran demonstrated real grit and resilience to secure 7th place, showing great character in extremely testing weather and road conditions.

In the C3 race, Kieran Keegan delivered a standout performance, taking a very impressive 4th place. His form following Mayo is clearly on an upward trajectory, and rides of this calibre suggest promotion to C2 level is likely just around the corner.

Michael Hickey also rode strongly to finish 15th and in the points, rounding out an excellent day for the squad.

Special thanks Ivan for driving team car and to Sean Rowe for the photos