Updating now…
15:18 - The Race Started
The race start was in Dublin Castle, with a great atmosphere in those historic surroundings. The race convoy has now rolled out of there and is waiting for the go near the quays. The riders are behind us and will follow shortly, travelling up the quays, through the Phoenix Park and out to Clonee.
13:15 - The Riders Has Moved
The riders have moved through the Phoenix Park and we are approaching Clonee. It was raining; it has stopped. Fingers crossed for the week ahead…the An Post Rás is known for tough weather conditions but, at times, editions are run off in blazing sunshine. We’ll wish for the latter…
10:58 - Moment Now
We’ve reached Clonee, so the action is due to begin any moment now.
03:05 - Sean McKenna
Sean McKenna has attacked and has 100 metres of an advantage. He’s riding with the Cork Aquablue team and is one of the top Irish riders here.
02:28 - Back Together
That’s not going to happen this time around, though – it’s all back together.
01:25 - Stephen Murray
Another attack goes and establishes a 100 metre lead. It was Stephen Murray from Cork Strata3/Velorevolution, but he’s been hauled back. A tight control is in evidence at this early point.
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Following a 15 kilometre neutralised section, the race proper will begin in Clonee. The flag will drop at 12.30 and the riders will begin a 144.6 kilometre battle for the first yellow jersey.
High speeds are certain as the race moves through Dunshaughlin, Navan and then Bohermeen, where the first An Post hotspot sprint will take place 38.5 kilometres after the start. A second follows 7.4 kilometres later in Kells (km. 50.4), offering up more bonus seconds.
