Two very popular stage races - involving four events in all - will be missing from the Irish road scene this month. The Wexford Two Day usually involves three races but is not going ahead. And the Suir Valley Three Day is also not being promoted (Photo: Sean Rowe)
Irish cycling stage races cancelled from August calendar
The August road racing calendar is set to be thinner than normal following the cancellation of two popular stages races.
It has been known for some time the Suir Valley Three Day is not going ahead this month.
But it has now just emerged the Wexford Two Day, which involved three separate races, has been called off.
The race was reintroduced in recent years and had secured backing from the Wexford-based Stafford Wholesale business.
However, while it had proven a hit across the categories, it appears interest in the race this season has not been as strong as before.
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And because the number of entries to date had been below expectations, a decision has been taken not to proceed.
Any riders who have pre-entered will secure a full refund. On a positive note, organisers Wexford Wheelers said they plan to come back next year.
“A review of the number of sign-ons to date indicates that the required field size could not be met,” the club said.
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“In the past few years, the race had achieved fields of 80 riders in each race category, giving a total race attendance of 220+ riders.”
Mark Dowling taking stage and overall victory at the 2014 Suir Valley Three Day (Photo: Dc Images)
However, it is understood only around 60 had entered for Wexford so far. And the organisers could not take a chance a financially viable number would eventually enter.
Wexford Wheelers thanked those who have supported the race since its reintroduction five years ago. And the club said the event would return in 12 months.
Racing was to be held on August 18th and 19th and would have seen three races promoted; for A1-A2, A3-Juniors and a third event for A4s.
With three stages for each of the three categories, the racing will really be missed.
Similarly, the Suir Valley Three Day’s absence also creates a hole in the calendar.
It is normally run on the Bank Holiday Weekend and has attracted riders from all over the country and the UK.
However, some of the key people behind the race were not available this year. As a result, unfortunately the event has been mothballed for now.
Hopefully it will follow the Wexford Two Day and return in 12 months time and we wish the organisers well in that regard.
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