The weekend before last Alanna Drennan rounded off her successful first year of racing with a trip to Westport for the National Youth cycling champs.
She is only 13 but was competing in the U14 girls category.
The 8km time trial was held on Saturday morning and this was Alanna’s weakest event. With a very high standard of cyclists it all came down to experience but nonetheless Alanna pushed herself and warmed up her legs for the road race.
The road race took place on Saturday afternoon and the U14 girls raced 27km: 3 laps of a lumpy 9km circuit. Alanna stayed with the main bunch for the full race and worked well with the other girls, maintaining a fast tempo. The juvenile sprint training payed off at the finish and Alanna crossed the line as 3rd girl in her U14 category!
The criterium was held on Sunday morning and was a bit of a baptism of fire. It was her first crit and the pace was fast, with very technical corners and a sharp pull up adding to the excitement. It was a brilliant experience though and Alanna out sprinted a couple of her rivals on the line. Overall it was a fantastic weekend of racing and Alanna was delighted to come home with a bronze medal in her first nationals. Alanna completes her season with the juvenile Moby Dick triathlon in Youghal at the end of the month.
**Well Done Allana and good luck at your last event of the season from all the MCTC commitee
