Downey best of the Irish in season opener with McConvey and Lavery in Slovenia (UCI 1.2)

Sean Downey put in a good ride in Slovenia yesterday, suggesting he is in good shape as the new season gets underway; seen here in action last year.

A number of Irish riders with the An Post-Chainreaction and Synergy Baku Continental-ranked teams got their season underway yesterday in Slovenia at the GP Izola.

Among those taking in their first competitive outing for the new campaign were Sean Downey (An Post-Chainreaction) along with Connor McConvey of the Synergy Baku squad and his new team mate Philip Lavery.

They lined up alongside the An Post-Chainreaction duo of Jack Wilson and Marcus Christie who have already been in one-day and stage race action in France in recent weeks.

The 142km, UCI 1.2 ranked, event ended in a bunch finish with Italian rider Cristian Delle Stelle of Team Idea taking victory.

Sean Downey was best of the Irish, finishing in the lead group of 42 riders and coming home in 18th place, an indication he has wintered well and is in good form.

Wilson and McConvey were in group just over two minutes down while Christie was further back.

Lavery was listed as a non finisher. However, having only joined Synergy Baku last week after deciding in the off season to step away from full time cycling, he will need some time to come up to speed.