Con Scully claims Bobby Power memorial race

Carlow cyclist, Con Scully, took what was probably the most important adult race of his career when winning the Bobby Power Memorial Race recently. The race, which is hosted by the Carrick-on-Suir club has a long tradition of attracting the very best riders. This year a strong field took to the line for the 100km classic which comprises of five laps.

The race was handicapped with the C2 category enjoying a four-minute head start which meant the C1 group which included Scully had it all to do if they were to get into contention.

Scully was to the fore from beginning to end. During the initial stages the C1s group fractured but Scully was one of the strongest who kept a degree of control on proceedings.

“It was about 40k before we caught them on a climb. A small group of C1s group. We agreed that when we got across to the C2s (which included Carlow rider, Jack Woods) we would ride hard to break it up,” he said.

Even then there was work to be done as a small group had gone ahead and they needed to be hunted down. With 15kms to go, that group were caught so it was a big enough group who were looking to take their chance to win.

At one stage, in the closing stages, Scully, realised he had to chase down a small breakaway. He and a few other riders did so successfully and as the business end of the day approached, he was part of an elite group of five who were set to contest the sprint to the line.

Scully, riding in the Dan Morrissey team colours, felt he had to make his move early rather than late. He did so successfully when taking first place with Ruairi Byrne (UCD Cycling Club) and Paul Kennedy (Team Skyline) placing second and third “Probably is my biggest win. Comparable to the Leinster Championship.

They always have a big turnout in Carrick-on-Suir and it is nice to get the win there,” the winner said.

Next up for Scully is the Carlow Des Hanlon Classic which starts at 12 midday next Sunday. The race centre is at Graiguecullen GAA Club where there will four different categories including a ladies race. A great days racing is promised with some of the best riders coming to this one-day event which is considered to be the most prestigious in the country.