National Road Series full classifications ahead of 'Des Hanlon' showdown

*The Cycling Ireland National Road Series Round 2 takes this weekend when the Des Hanlon Memorial is promoted in Co Carlow (Photo: Bryan Keane-Inpho)*

After a very hard day out at the Donal Crowley Memorial in Blarney, Co Cork, last weekend, the second round of the Cycling Ireland National Road Series takes place this Sunday in Co Carlow, where the Des Hanlon Memorial will be fought out. The men's race will be longer this year, with a new section add to the final making for a race distance of 144km with 1,700m of climbing.

Twenty riders had scored points in the men's series so far (below) with eight senior women in the points. In the junior ranks, eight riders have points already in the men's series and two in the women's. The junior scores are based on the points they scored for their finishing positions in the combined senior-junior races this year. That means the number of placings juniors finish ahead of each other are reflected in their points tallies - which will reward very good performances.

On Sunday at the Des Hanlon, the riders in the men's race will take on the hilly circuit three times, passing through Castlecomer each occasion before taking on a smaller circuit and racing to the finish in Carlow town. The women’s race takes on a similar route, with over 1,100m of climbing and a total distance of 100km.

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We at Carlow Road Cycling Club would like take this opportunity of welcoming you all to Carlow town to our annual Des Hanlon Memorial Road Races. This year we have added on section to the end of A1/A2 race which will challenge the riders. A total of 144km," said John Walsh, the chairman of Carlow Road Cycling Club, which is promoting the races.

"This year promises excellent racing comprising of tough hills, fast descents and flat terrain in keeping with a National Series event. It is a spectacular route with fantastic views looking down over Carlow Town from the Gratto at Rossmore and will be exciting for both riders and spectators. The circuit and event has all the ingredients of a classic road race, with hopefully top class fields from across the country along with our local riders, this will be a spectacle.

"The route takes on the Rushes, the Yellow Road and the climb to Rossmore from Kellishin Village for the first time – for the Women's National Series race they stay on the original circuit. Rossmore is the highest point of the race and offers spectacular views too and a great place for spectators to gather.

"Over the years Carlow Road Cycling Club put in a tremendous amount of work to give the cyclists the best and the safest race possible. To all our sponsors and supporters of the club, again a special thank you for your continued support – without this, we simply could not hold such a prestigious event such as a National Series event."