Ardmore’s cycling star picks up junior medal

Foyle Cycling Club’s teenage star Ryan Reilly, was awarded Ulster Cycling’s Road Race junior medal at the Ulster Cycling Awards in the White River Hotel, Toome recently.
By The Newsroom
Published 20th Jan 2015, 15:39 BST
Foyle Cycling Clubs Ryan Reilly, from Ardmore, receives his Ulster Road Race Junior Champion 2014 medal at the Ulster Cycling awards night.Foyle Cycling Clubs Ryan Reilly, from Ardmore, receives his Ulster Road Race Junior Champion 2014 medal at the Ulster Cycling awards night.
Foyle Cycling Clubs Ryan Reilly, from Ardmore, receives his Ulster Road Race Junior Champion 2014 medal at the Ulster Cycling awards night.

Son of local cycling enthusiasts, Geoff and Rhonda Reilly from Ardmore, Ryan has enjoyed a meteoric rise through the ranks and is now recognised as one of Ireland’s most promising young riders.

He was controversially denied the outright win in the Ulster Championship Road Race in Ballyliffin last June because his junior status dictates that he is unable to compete for the senior prize which is only open to A1 - A3 category riders. So, despite producing a sensational performance and being the fastest rider on the day, Ryan had to be content with the junior award

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In the race itself, he came in ahead of the second placed Connor Murphy who, due to Ryan’s age, was awarded the Ulster Crown. Such was the class of the field that Muff cyclist, Ronan McLaughlin, came home in fourth place on the day.

Ryan said he was delighted to receive his medal and paid tribute to everyone who has supported his efforts during the season, especially his parents and everyone at Foyle CC.

Simon Gill, Chairman of the Foyle Cycling Club said the club were immensely proud Reilly’s achievements.

“Everyone at Foyle CC is very proud of Ryan and it’s great to see another cyclist progress through the club’s ranks,” he said. “It shows that with dedication and effort, there are rewards for cyclists.

“I would encouraged anyone interested in leisure or competitive cycling with the club to turn up with a suitable road bike and helmet at Templemore Sports Complex at 9am any Saturday or Sunday.”