Richie Maes (Strata 3-VeloRevolution) has taken another strong win in the Munster Cyclocross Series
As he has done already this season, the series leader hit the front early and rode away from the rest of the field for a commanding win in Mallow, Co Cork, today.
Former road pro Paidi O'Brien (Verge) did his best to contain Maes in the early stages.
But he couldn't live with the pace set by the leader and his challenge ultimately faded a little.
Maes was unstoppable today in muddy conditions on a technical course in Mallow Town Park and even by the end of the opening lap he had 20 seconds in hand, stretching to well over two minutes by the finish.
Behind him, Richie Barry of St Finbarr's - who won the opening round of the series - looked the best of the rest for a long time.
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However, as the contest neared an end it was Patrick Clifford (Strata 3-VeloRevolution) who was determined not to let Barry simply ride in for 2nd place.
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Clifford closed in on Barry on the final lap and caught him. And when the catch was made the real drama unfolded.
Coming into the final bend, a left hander, Barry was on the faster inside line with Clifford outside him.
Both were so determined to beat the other that they came together and Clifford went down; instinctively putting out his arm as he fell and tangling with Barry's bike.
However, while Clifford hit the deck and Barry was forced to a stop, it was the St Finbarr's man who got going again quickest and he took 2nd place; Clifford taking 3rd.
That tangle for the final two places on the podium is featured in the videos below.
More to come.
Messy in Mallow: Clifford Vs Barry
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