Rás Tailteann 2025 - Stage 2

Stage 2 Report Charlestown to Clifden | 172km

Stage 2 of the 2025 Rás Tailteann lived up to its billing as the queen stage of the race. Covering over 170km from Charlestown to Clifden, the route included the Category 1 Windy Gap after just 50km, followed by a succession of four more categorised climbs in the final 60km—making it one of the most demanding stages on the Irish racing calendar.

Into the Wind and Mountains

Under blue skies and a punishing pace of 46kph average, the peloton stormed westward. Spirits were high as the riders passed through Knock, with a few prayers offered for what was to come.

Unfortunately, Luke Keaney was caught up in an early crash just 30km into the stage. He managed to avoid serious injury—hopping over fallen riders and quickly remounting. With five others, he chased hard to rejoin the peloton before the Windy Gap, a costly effort that stung the legs before the day’s biggest challenge.

As the approach to the Cat 1 climb narrowed, Patrick O’Loughlin was the best positioned of the Orwell riders. He crested the climb with the front group as a break of 20 riders began to pull clear. The peloton, roughly one minute down, reformed into a reduced group of around 65 riders.

Evan Keane, Sean O’Kane, and Luke Keaney all made it over the climb together but found themselves in a chase group roughly two minutes behind the main peloton. With still 80km to race and a strong headwind ahead, the gap proved impossible to close.

Meanwhile, Ronan O’Flynn, who had been caught out earlier on, rode strongly to link up with the trio, forming a compact gruppetto to tackle the remaining climbs and rolling roads into Clifden.

Stage Results & Standings

Despite the challenges, Patrick O’Loughlin finished just 3:24 behind stage winner Will Perrett, placing him 6th among county riders on the day and lifting him to 28th overall on General Classification.

The remaining Orwell riders—Sean, Evan, Luke, and Ronan—came in together, showing strong teamwork and composure. Their efforts ensured that Ronan now sits 5th in the C2 classification, with Luke in 7th.

While the team expressed some frustration over positioning into the day’s key climb, morale remains high. Neal Hudson, the team’s Director Sport, offered valuable feedback post-stage—highlighting tactical areas for improvement and encouraging the riders to take the lessons forward into Stage 3. His calm, constructive input was key in resetting focus and building belief for the road ahead.

Back at the team base, the riders recovered well, enjoying scenic views along the coast and a well-earned meal. Donal Loughrey, lead mechanic, reported a quiet day in the pits—always welcome during a tough stage race. With recovery protocols complete, the riders turned in early, ready to take on Stage 3 with renewed intent and sharper execution.

📸 Sean Rowe