The Shay Elliott and Ken Duff races - backed by Trinity Skoda and VeloRevolution - will still be zingers, there's just one big change (Photo: Sean Rowe)
Bray Wheelers has sadly been forced to change the route of the Trinity Škoda Shay Elliott Classic - and Ken Duff Memorial - and remove the big Shay Elliott climb to the finish line.
Road resurfacing is taking place on the climb and so it means it is off the race route. The race will now consist of racing around the 24km circuit.
The new start and new finish are at Avondale GAA Club, just outside Rathdrum. See the route maps for both races below.
Though the removal of the iconic final climb changes the character of the race, the promoting club said it has worked hard to ensure it is still a very challenging route.
Riders and support crew should also note that race headquarters has been changed and will now be based at Avondale GAA Club.
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"Due to ongoing roadworks being undertaken by Wicklow County Council, the organisers have been forced to make late adjustments to the traditional route, which unfortunately means this year’s edition will not include the classic Shay Elliott climb finish," the club said.
"While disappointing for many riders and supporters of the race’s famous finale, Bray Wheelers has worked extensively to ensure the event retains the challenging and competitive character for which it is renowned."
The event is once again sponsored by Trinity Škoda and Brady Wheelers said its "continued support plays a major role in helping the race remain one of the standout fixtures of the domestic racing season".
"In a welcome change for developing riders, C3 competitors will also be admitted this year, with additional prizes for the first three unplaced C3 riders, creating an exciting opportunity for emerging talent to test themselves on Wicklow’s demanding terrain," Bray Wheelers added.
There are prizes of €500, €200 and €100 for the top three, with prizes from 1st to 12th in each race. Additional cash prizes will also be available for the primes and the KOM competitions, sponsored by Velo Revolution.
"Despite the revised finish, the Shay Elliott Memorial promises another memorable day of hard racing on some of Ireland’s most famous cycling roads, with strong fields expected and competitive racing guaranteed throughout the day," Bray Wheelers added.
Elliott-Duff | The Deets
