Former Lakeside Wheelers riders heading for Europe

Three former Lakeside Wheelers members have been selected to represent Ireland at the European Cycling Championships in Italy next week.

Sisters Caoimhe and Aoife O’Brien who now ride for the English based Torelli-Assure-Cayman Islands-Scimitar team and Aaron Wade of Powerhouse Sport will from part of the 21-rider Irish team which will compete in TT and road racing in Trento, Italy from today (Wednesday) to Sunday.

The three Mullingar riders commenced their cycling careers with Lakeside Wheelers when they joined up to the youth development programme some years ago.

Caoimhe, Aoife and Aaron are already well decorated with each of them having won several events on the track and road as they progressed through the age groups but this selection to represent their country is without doubt, the pinnacle of each of their careers to date.

While Caoimhe and Aaron will compete on the U23 ladies and men’s teams, Aoife will be the sole Irish rider on the junior ladies’ team.

Despite their tender years, all three have vast experience at the highest level with both Caoimhe and Aoife having previously represented Ireland at the Youth Olympics, while Aaron has just recently returned from Spain where he spent the summer racing in Mallorca with some considerable success.

These young athletes have years of dedication and hard work behind them so it is fantastic to see them get recognition for their efforts and sacrifices. However, it goes without saying that they could not have gotten to this stage alone and as is the case with all top-level sports people, there is always a dedicated backroom team.

For Caoimhe, Aoife and Aaron their parents, families and friends have played a huge part in their development and all deserve great credit for the part they have played.

“Every member of the Lakeside Wheelers club is immensely proud of the three former members and it is always great to see them return to the club spins whenever their racing and training schedules allow,” said Lakeside Wheelers club chairman Paul Gibney this week.

“So, it is with great pride that the club membership sends best wishes to Caoimhe, Aoife and Aaron for their races in Italy next week.

“You are fabulous ambassadors for Irish cycling, your families, Mullingar and most importantly, for yourselves. Good luck and stay safe.”