Winning Solutions in Dublin was the venue for the recent launch of the Cycling Ireland Talent Team 2020. The 16 members of the Team gathered with their parents and coaches. They were welcomed by Cycling Ireland President Rory Wyley and Head Development Coach Paddy Doran. Also present for the launch were Track Development Coach Brian Cardy, Talent Identification Officer Anthony Mitchell and CEO Geoff Liffey. Mark Downey of Banbridge CC was congratulated on his appointment as Team Captain.
Gallery - Home/Youth/Gallery/TT2020.aspx
After photographs were taken, the cyclists were taken for a run by Junior Development Coach Frank O’ Leary, Rory Wyley and Anthony Mitchell. An overview of the TT2020 programme was given to the parents by Youth Development Coach Martin O’ Loughlin with inputs from Paddy Doran and An Post professional Sam Bennett.
Following the run, Sam guided the cyclists through a comprehensive stretching routine which was followed by lunch. Each team member was given a folder containing important educational and organisational materials. This folder will become very full in the months and years to come. In the afternoon, Sam showed the riders which core exercises are most beneficial for young cyclists.
Paddy Doran gave a presentation on bike set-up. Next up were talks on November and December training. Frank did this with those born in 1995 and Martin spoke to the younger Team members. The action-packed day concluded with a short question and answer session.
Many thanks to Scott McDonald of Winning Solutions for the use of his premises. The next Team session will be hosted by Dunboyne and Clonee Cycling Club in Kilmessan, Co. Meath on Saturday 10th of December from 11am to 4pm. Cycling Ireland would like to thank all of those who made the Team launch an outstanding success.