It has been a difficult year for the Enduro fraternity and organisers. Storms early in the year played havoc with the forests and illegal riding caused one event to be cancelled with a second new venue in Galway failing to materialise. Help with setting up this new route was we understand the reason. That is a shame and we trust next year will bring a more constructive approach amongst the riders to assist organisers.
That said, the end of season Tinahely event is always a good one …. Never easy or meant to be easy 2014 was we understand no exception. Dave Mc Cann laid out a typical forest event combining the four block forests in the area, two on each side of the road and a new test which was technical. Two small climbs and lots of Wicklow rock were the order of the day and very tight check times particularly for the expect class where they were given an extra 5 minute break mid day.
Dry weather greeted the 90 riders and it is good to see a strong entry for the season ending event.
Former champion Paul Mc Laughlin was riding for the first time this season as was road racing star Ryan Farquhar …. Both equitted themselves well. (So we are informed).
Video on Youtube above uploaded by David Mc Nulty.
It was local Wicklow rider Davy MC Nulty (Beta) who took the winning honours winning every test bar one to put a 17 second gap to Steven Smyth (HVA) with Charles Stuart (TM) a little further adrift in 3rd seeming out of tune on the day. All experts finished.
David MC Mahon ( KTM ) had a narrow victory from Merlin Griffin ( HON) in the senior class followed by Ger O’Grady ( TM ) , Gary Johnston , Dave Creen and Paul ( cant get up that hill) Whyte.
Phil Jones (KTM) had a 20 second advantage over the aforementioned Ryan Farquhar (KX) and William Thompson (HVA) in the clubman class with Ivan MC Laughlin and Anto Kerins following them home.
Sportsman was again won by Eddie Doolan (HON) from Alan Ennell, John Mc Allister, and Keith Farrell who all completed 2 laps of the tough course.
(All results are provisional)
So the season ends and we await the championship standings.
The TORC Ireland club wish to thank all those who competed, assisted or in any way helped during the season.
You can upload results here :
Tinahely 2014
Enduro.ie