Cycling Ulster Report: Rás Tailteann 2025
The 2025 Rás Tailteann proved to be a landmark event for Cycling Ulster, delivering one of our most successful and inspiring performances in recent years. Entered as a developmental opportunity for our Under-23 talent, the team quickly evolved into a serious contender for overall victory, showcasing the strength, depth, and cohesion of Ulster cycling at both national and international levels.
Our squad consisted of three emerging U23 riders- Odhran Doogan, Jamie Moss, and Travis Harkness, supported by experienced senior athletes Kevin McCambridge and Lyndsay Watson. Their role was pivotal, offering critical guidance and leadership on the road, setting an example of professionalism and tactical awareness for our younger athletes. The team was ably supported throughout the week by a top-class backroom staff: Oisín Collins as mechanic, and soigneurs JB Murphy and Cathir Doyle, all of whom contributed tirelessly to ensure a smooth and high-performance environment from start to finish.
The race got off to a strong start, with Odhran Doogan immediately asserting himself in the general classification by collecting time bonuses and climbing to 3rd overall. Day two brought a challenging course, particularly with the infamous Corkscrew climb, which unfortunately saw Lyndsay suffer a mechanical issue that cost him time. However, the team rallied, and Odhran made it into the decisive breakaway, seizing the yellow jersey by a narrow three-second margin, a moment that quickly transformed our goals from development to outright contention.
With the leader’s jersey now on our shoulders, the pressure mounted- but so did the team’s commitment. Each rider played a critical role in controlling the race and protecting Odhran’s position.
On stage three, Lyndsay covered the most dangerous move of the day, while Jamie, Travis, and Kevin marked attacks and helped manage the gap leading into the key climb. Odhran was left to defend his jersey in the front group with Lyndsay, battling every move to retain his lead.
Stage four was widely recognised as the queen stage of the race, featuring the brutal Wolftrap climb. Our riders rode valiantly to control the race early on, placing Odhran perfectly heading into the ascent. A fierce battle unfolded, with fellow Ulster riders Dean Harvey and Jamie Meehan (both riding for the national team) launching a decisive move alongside George Kimber. The trio crested the climb with a significant gap, and despite Odhran’s best efforts, the yellow jersey slipped from our grasp. Kimber took yellow, Meehan moved into second and claimed the white jersey, while Odhran fell to third overall.
Despite the setback, the team remained focused and resilient. Going into the final stage, the goal was clear- go on the offensive and look for any opportunity to reclaim time. The racing was aggressive from the gun, with GC threats slipping into a dangerous move. Once again, our team responded with determination, covering attacks and keeping the break in check. With support from other teams, the gap came down approaching the finishing circuits. Odhran then made a bold solo move to bridge across to the leaders. Unfortunately, a stall in the breakaway allowed the yellow and white jersey holders to rejoin for a final sprint. Odhran finished 3rd on the stage, securing the green points jersey and retaining the county rider classification, along with 3rd place overall on GC.
This result capped off a fantastic week for Cycling Ulster. The riders displayed remarkable teamwork, discipline, and grit. The staff’s tireless behind-the-scenes efforts ensured the riders had everything they needed to perform at their best. The cohesion and professionalism of the entire squad were evident throughout and should be a point of pride for the province.
It was also a tremendous occasion for Ulster cycling more broadly. Alongside Odhran’s multiple jersey wins, Jamie Meehan took home second overall and the white jersey for best young rider, and Banbridge claimed the overall team classification- underlining the strength of Ulster’s development pathway. It was a pleasure for me to manage the team and I am looking forward to working with these riders again soon and the rest of the talent coming through.
