KILDARE, 3 July 2001: by Grace Halford. The rain didn’t deter the crowds in Kildare town last Wednesday night who came out in their hundreds to pay homage to one of the town's best known sporting heroes, Paddy Flanagan, who passed away suddenly last year. Paddy was one of Ireland’s best-known sportsmen and an all-time great of Irish cycling. He is best remembered for his 1960s win of the Rás Táilteann, which later became known as the FBD Milk Rás.
On Wednesday, more than 70 entrants took part in the first Paddy Flanagan Memorial Race. They came from Dublin, Laois, Meath, Sligo and even as far a field as Kenturk in Co Cork. Many of Irelands top cyclists turned up for the event including 1999 World Junior Champion Mark Scanlon and former Rás Winner Philip Cassidy, and international cycling champion Sean Kelly.
The weather conditions contributed to two crashes, but there were no major incidents. Sean Kelly said that it was a wonderful evening despite the weather conditions. "More of these shorter circuit races should be encouraged throughout the county," he added.
In the end the memorial cup went to Tim Cassidy who was presented with his prize by Paddy Flanagan's son John, who said it was 'a very proud day' for both himself and for his mother.
Born near Kildangan, outside Monastreven, Paddy Flanagan was one of youngest winners of the Rás and was a major contributor to popularising the sport in Ireland. Before his unexpected death he had recognized the need to encourage young blood into the sport and because of this he had decided to establish a Junior Cup in his name.
John Malone from the Newbridge Cycling Club, who was responsible for organising the race in conjunction with the Derby Festival Committee, said it was 'a terrific turnout for a mid-week race'.
The event was sponsored by Newbridge Cutlery.
©2001gracehalford/knn