Roger Aiken dominant at Tour of Ulster; takes opening stage, yellow and climbers’ jersey

The podium: Tim Barry in 3rd and caretaker climbers jersey wearer, stage winner and yellow jersey Roger Aiken and 2nd placed Chrish Reilly

National cyclocross champion and former FBD Rás stage winner, Roger Aiken has put in a very dominant performance on the opening stage of the Tour of Ulster today.

The Banbridge CC man was first over all four categorised climbs today and when the field splintered up the last climb and a select group pulled clear, Aiken proved too strong in the closing stages to take the win on the day.

The in-form Chris Reilly (Bohermeen), who won in Stamullen, Co Meath, just a fortnight ago put in a very strong ride today to take second on the stage. Tim Barry (Aquablue) was third and will wear the polka dot jersey tomorrow while young emerging rider Javan Nulty (DID Dunboyne) was best U23 rider.

We’ll have more later.

Results Stage 1 Tour of Ulster

Maghera-Maghera (121.8km)