The annual McCann Cup road race took place in dry, but bitterly cold conditions at Fintona on Sunday 18 March 2018. With a wind chill factor of -5 degrees and gusts of up to 45mph, this was a day for the most dedicated competitors. In the 60 mile A3 race, NDCC’s Paul McArthur, Johnny Webb and young Nathan Keown took on both the weather and a strong field of riders from North and South. In-form Nathan was part of second lap breakaway of junior riders that fought hard and ultimately held off the peloton. Nathan rode an exceptional race and eventually crossed the finish line in second position. Undoubtedly a winner’s podium step is just around the corner. Paul McArthur worked hard all day to chase down breakaways and drive the pace, but in the end, a lack of commitment and organisation from the bunch frustrated his efforts.
In the Masters’ race, Paul Kirk was one of a dozen stronger riders who rode aggressively from the start, leaving the weaker riders struggling in the conditions. This group battled it out over two further laps and the race ended in a bunch sprint with Paul securing a very creditable fourth place.
Congratulations from NDCC to all the weekend’s winners and competitors.