Gillespie goes closest for Ireland on European Champs opening day | Sticky Bottle

*Patrick O'Loughlin was one of the riders in action for Ireland on the opening day of the U23 and junior European Track Championships in Portugal*

Lara Gillespie was the best finisher for Ireland on the opening day of the U23 and junior European Track Championships in Portugal, with 5th in the U23 women's elimination race.

The 21-year-old, who has medaled at junior and U23 Europeans and worlds, remained in the race until deep into the contest before becoming involved in some bumping with France's Kristina Nenadovic coming to the line for the sprint with just five riders left.

The Irish rider was pipped to the line by Nenadovic, meaning she was out of the race. However, following a prolonged period of injury after these championships last year, where she won silver in the individual pursuit, her performance today suggests she is very much back on track.

Also in action today for Ireland in Anadia were junior riders Aoife O'Brien and Patrick O'Loughlin. O'Brien was 12th in the junior women's scratch race while O'Loughlin finished 11th in the junior men's scratch race. The championships continue tomorrow.

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😱 What a thrilling final!
🎥 Watch the last 4 laps of the Women Junior Scratch Race#cycling #portugal #trackcycling #velodrome #cyclingtrack #ciclismo #cyclisme pic.twitter.com/UuLWEBP98E

— UEC Cycling (@UEC_cycling) July 15, 2022