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Murphy takes Annaclone in Style
Conor Murphy was a cut above the rest of the field when he soloed home to victory in the Annaclone Grand Prix promoted by Banbridge CC on Saturday. The event attracted 82 entries and the field was handicapped into three groups separated by 5 minutes.
In the opening laps of the race it looked as if a 6 man breakaway from the limit bunch comprising Ernie Magwood (East Tyrone), Stephen McKenna (East Antrim), Adam Petrie-Armstrong (Northern), Alaister Steele (U/A) Barry Mullin (Phoenix) and Gordon Scott (Kings Moss) would stay away. This group were actually gaining time on the middle second category group whilst the 1st category scratch bunch contained only 8 riders and were making little impression on their 5-minute deficit.
Murphy then decided to go it alone. The Crannog Ireland star left his group and proceeded to chase down the entire field in a devastating display. At the start of the final 8 mile lap Murphy, accompanied by Peter Hawkins (Castlereagh), Tim Walsh (Phoenix) and Karl Dolan was 45 seconds down on the leaders .. but closing fast.
When he finally made contact he took a well-earned breather but with 2 miles remaining he took off on his own and crossed the finish line with 36 seconds to spare.
Peter Hawkins won the sprint for second place from Alaister Steele, Tim Walsh, Stephen McKenna, Adam Petrie-Armstrong, Karl Dolan and Barry Mullin
For a look at the faces to watch out for in 2005 take a peek at the full gallery by clicking the link below.
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Results Annaclone Grand Prix 5/3/05
1. Conor Murphy (Crannog Ireland) 40 Miles 1-42-40
2. Peter Hawkins (Castlereagh) @ 36 secs
3. Alaister Steele (U/A) ST
4. Tim Walsh (Phoenix CC) ST
5. Stephen McKenna (East Antrim) ST
6. Adam Petrie-Armstrong (Northern-Dave Kane) ST
7. Karl Dolan (Cuchullain CC) ST
8. Barry Mullin (Phoenix CC) ST
Report : Tommy Lamb
Pics : Marian Lamb Return |
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