Slattery and O'Grady conquer brutal conditions in Ennis

Matt Slattery (Strata3/VeloRevolution) was a comprehensive winner in yesterday's cyclocross race in Ennis, Co. Clare. (Photo: Sean Rowe)

By Brian Canty

Matt Slattery was a comfortable winner in yesterday’ cyclocross race in Ennis, Co Clare, promoted by Burren Racing Team.

The Strata3-VeloRevolution man dominated the one-hour, seven-lap (2.7k) race, despite the event being handicapped.

Slattery was one of just 10 A riders who braved the elements, though there were around 40 B riders who made the journey west and they started with a slight handicap.

The Killarney man had little trouble working his way up through to the front however, despite tough conditions and a tricky course that included some fast, wooded sections, technical run-ups and a number of steep grassy stretches.

Maeve O'Grady was best of the female competitors on the day as she prepares for the National Cyclocross Championships (Photo: Sean Rowe)

Ronan O’Flynn of Galway Bay and national A3 road race champion Richard Maes (Killarney CC) were the two who pushed Slattery closest but they were no match for the former mountain biker.

The B race was a far less cut and dried affair with Anthony O’Halloran of the host club having a right tussle with Paul Dunne (Ballina CC) with the latter emerging as the winner.

The ladies race was won by Maeve O’Grady of the Defence Forces, proving that she’s still in good form after her win in Kilruddery last month.