Having ridden very well in recent weeks, James Davenport has turned that form into a big victory; claiming the main event at the Cycleways Cup in Co Meath (Photo: George Doyle)

James Davenport wins big at Cycleways Cup

One of the strong men of the recent Des Hanlon and during some of the hardest moments of Rás Mumhan, James Davenport has now won the Cycleways Cup.

The Strata 3-VeloRevolution man claimed his win today ahead of Charles Prendergast (Castlebar CC).

They had broken clear from the day's breakaway and survived to the finish where a two-up sprint settled the honours.

Behind them an eight-man group fought it out for the minor placings; Damien Shaw of Holdsworth Pro Cycling rounding out the podium.

Next came the winner's team mate Philip Lavery; the Dubliner having ridden very well defensively to ensure Davenport and Prendergast stayed clear.

The A1-A2 event, one of three races for senior riders on the day, was four laps for a total distance of 139km.

From the breakaway on the last lap Prendergast took the initiative. He attacked on his own approximately half way around the circuit.

After the Castlebar man broke clear there was some hesitation in the group. And once the gap had grown a little Davenport made what proved to be the move that won the race.

He took flight on his own after the solo leader; getting a gap and putting his head down.

And while there were attacks after him, Lavery marked them very closely; a tactic that worked well. Up ahead, Davenport soon joined up with Prendergast.

They continued to make strong progress towards the finish. And with Lavery playing defender back the road, the race belonged to the two leaders.

Victory comes after strong period

Davenport has ridden well in recent weeks. He made the winning breakaway at the Des Hanlon. And when it whittled down to five he survived the culls; taking 4th on the day.

He was also very active off the front at Rás Mumhan last weekend in Co Kerry over four stages.

On Sunday's queen stage he rode across from the bunch to the breakaway. And he was also on the attack on the final stage.

Today's race, promoted by Navan Road Club, had initially been down for decision on the first weekend in March. However, it was called off due to the snow and rescheduled.