Emyvale riders show grit at the Newry 3 Day Race

3rd–5th July 2026

Two Emyvale Cycling Club riders took on one of the most demanding events on the local racing calendar earlier this month as Dara McKenna and Declan McEntee lined out for the prestigious Newry 3 Day Race, promoted by Newry Wheelers Cycling Club.

• Friday evening: 36 miles

• Saturday: 70 miles

• Sunday: 65 miles

Competing in the M50 category, Dara and Declan faced a challenging 3-day program consisting of 36 miles on Friday evening, 70 miles on Saturday and a demanding 65-mile final stage on Sunday.

With strong competition and fast-paced racing throughout the weekend, both riders were tested from the opening kilometres.

Friday's opening stage provided an encouraging start. Declan produced a strong ride to finish 17th in a bunch sprint, while Dara showed excellent form before an unfortunate mechanical issue disrupted his race. Despite the setback, he demonstrated real resilience by battling on to the finish.

Saturday brought further challenges. Declan suffered a puncture in the neutralised zone before racing had properly begun. Faced with the daunting task of chasing back to a fast-moving peloton, he dug deep, worked tirelessly and successfully rejoined the main group before finishing the stage strongly. Unfortunately for Dara, a second mechanical problem ended his weekend prematurely, forcing him to withdraw from the race.

The final stage on Sunday saw riders tackle another tough day in the saddle, with the spectacular finish at Spelga Dam providing a fitting backdrop. Declan once again showed his strength and consistency, staying with the bunch throughout the race and sprinting strongly to the finish line.

While results only tell part of the story, the performances of both riders reflected the determination, commitment and fighting spirit that characterise Emyvale Cycling Club. Mechanical setbacks may have influenced the outcome, but the perseverance shown by Dara and the resilience demonstrated by Declan throughout the weekend are achievements in themselves.

The club would also like to thank Jerome Rafferty for capturing the action and providing photographs from the event.

Congratulations to Dara and Declan on representing Emyvale Cycling Club with distinction at one of the region's premier stage races. Their efforts continue to inspire fellow club members and highlight the strength of cycling within the club.