Irish Riders Impress at UCI Cyclo-cross World Championships
A team of three Irish riders competed in the 2024 Cyclo-cross World Championships in Tábor, Czech Republic.
First out on course for Ireland was Greta Lawless on Saturday morning. A strong performance on the international stage saw Lawless finished just outside the top 30 in the Junior Women.
It was a busy morning for the Irish support team as Dean Harvey was up next in the Under 23 Men’s Race. Following on from claiming his second consecutive national title in January, Harvey finished 33rd at the World Championships.
On Sunday morning it was the turn of Conor Murphy in the Junior Men’s race. A big field of over 70 riders started the race, with Murphy coming home in 38th.
Speaking after the championships Paul Birchall, Cyclo-cross Coordinator with Cycling Ireland, said:
“What a brilliant weekend at the Cyclo-cross World Championships in Tábor. The supporting crowd and the atmosphere were electric. This was the largest ever entry in its 75-year history with a crowd of over 60,000 spectators visiting during the weekend.
“Our three riders, Dean, Greta and Conor put in great performances and will have gained invaluable experience from racing at the very top level.
“Their results clearly display steady improvement at world level. All three fought from the back of their respective races passing many to achieve their great results.
“Tábor offered one of the toughest courses where competitors were challenged in every aspect of Cyclo-cross racing. Very worthy winners prevailed in all races.
“Thanks to everyone who travelled out to support the riders and create such a great atmosphere. This means so much to these youngsters. It was amazing to see banners flying around the course for each of them.
“We’re already looking ahead to the next Cyclo-cross season. Well done to all the riders involved in the Cyclo-cross Development Programme this year.”
Click here for full results.
The championships conclude what has been a successful season for Irish Cyclo-cross riders, with a second renewal of the UCI Cyclo-cross World Cup in Dublin, an exceptional National Championships in Greenmount combined with a host of top-class results from Irish riders at home and on the European circuit.
This has proved to be yet another season to remember. Thank you to everyone who helped make it all possible.