Two big events this weekend

On Friday evening there is a series of short races, to be run off on a short circuit of Kitchen Hill, Bridge Street, Union Street and Hill Street begins at 7pm.

First off will be four novice and youth races. Local hopes will centre on Declan Mulholland and his sister Ciara.

The main race of the evening is to be a 45 minute senior race, beginning around 7.30pm.

Sunday brings the Tour of Armagh, annually the toughest and longest race in the county. The Classic Mineral Water Company have sponsored the event once again.

Last year’s winner of the Patsy O’Connor Cup, Gary Cranston from the East Antrim club, is back, heading an already full field of 60 riders, representing the cream of Ulster cycling.

The Clann Eireann cyclists are listed as John Heverin, Michael Murray, Martin McConville, Barry McConville and Conor Grimes.

Leaving Victoria Street at 12 noon, the cyclists race to Portadown, Loughgall, Armagh, Keady,and over the mountain where Cycleology sponsor the award for first to the top.

Then its on to Newtownhamilton, Belleeks, Camlough and Mountnorris before the run back through Markethill, Tandragee and Gilford to finish in Market Street Lurgan around 2.45pm.