The Ras is a uniquely Iirish race. Passing through the narrow shop lined streets, out into the open fields and across seaboard boulevards bordering the Atlantic, the race attracts some of the most promising up and coming riders to the emerald isle. The Ras is no ordinary contest. Not by a long chalk. Capping teams with five man limit forces riders to attack with an all or nothing attitude. The European formula is tossed out and leaves riders constantly fighting for position across the entire eight days of racing.
"The Ras has friendly feel and the field is made up from half UCI Continental teams and the other half county squads.
It’s always point-to-point – there are hardly any transfers, it is raced on incredible roads and they love to see an underdog succeed. If an Irish rider wins a stage it’s such a big deal they’ll never have to pay for a pint of Guinness in their home town again."
Rob Partridge (BIKEChannel Canyon)
A huge effort was made by the BIKEChannel Canyon team. Esspecially considering that five riders were reduced to four after Max Stedman was forced to abandon the race due to a fever. Dexter Gardias managed to take home two top ten finishes. A race well spent from the young BIKEChannel Canyon Team.
Please enjoy this photo gallery from the Ras.
Stage 8 race book
Pre Race Briefing
Locked and Loaded
Leading out
Out in the open
The peloton makes it's way through the Irish country side. Team car in tow.
Searching for Polkadots
Breakaway
The Ras rocks
Domestique Duties
Tipping it in
All images by Hugh McManus.