UPDATED: Sara Ortiz adds to growing reputation with Stamullen ‘Trek League’ win

Sara Ortiz (Black Rose) with Orla Hendron of Orwell Wheelers in pursuit as they head towards the line.

Sara Ortiz (Black Rose Racing) underlined her growing stature in Irish women's cycling with a decisive sprint victory at the end of the first round of the 2012 Trek Women's Classic League in Stamullen yesterday, Sunday.

The Galway-based Spaniard had three bike lengths in hand over second-placed Orla Hendron (DTC Orwell Wheelers) in the gallop for the line at the end of four laps and 75km of the testing Stamullen Grand Prix course in Co Meath.

Laura Banfield (McNally Swords) was third, coming home in the small group that fought for victory on the drag up into Stamullen village. The rolling course split the large field into several small groups in another seamless promotion from Gabriel Howard and all the Stamullen CC team.

The top three women moved ahead of the other entrants following the first ascent of the circuit's most testing climb at Snowtown and worked hard to maintain their advantage through to the finish.
Tonya Moran made the long trip from Derry worthwhile with fourth place ahead of Amy Brice (Phoenix CC) and Mandy Collie (Forme).

Ortiz takes the first yellow jersey in the competition and adds it to the lead she also holds in the ‘Stickybottle.com Women’s National League’.

Meanwhile Melanie Späth, one of the pre-race favourites, retired sick early on the first lap.

The next event for the Trek Women's Classic League is the Orwell Wheelers Kieran Hammond Memorial A3 race at Roundwood in two weeks time where Ortiz will be presented with a newly minted yellow jersey courtesy of Phil Cassidy's Spin 11 clothing firm.

Trek Women's Classic League Round One

Stamullen, Sunday 15th April

1, Sara Ortiz (Black Rose Racing)
2, Orla Hendron (DTC Orwell Wheelers);
3, Laura Banfield (McNally Swords CC);
4, Tonya Moran;
5, Amy Brice (Phoenix CC);
6, Mandy Collie (Forme).