Weekend to remember at Cyclocross Championships

Sunday’s action promises to be even more intense.

As the National Cyclocross Championships hits Day Two at Castle Saunderson, the excitement and determination among riders is palpable.

Despite frosty conditions on day one, changing to damp on day two, hundreds of families, mechanics and fans from all over Ireland have all converged for the biggest event on the Irish cyclocross calendar.

Saturday’s racing was a mix of future talent and seasoned veterans, featuring youth categories from U8 to U16, as well as Masters 50 and Masters 60 championship races. But Sunday’s action promises to be even more intense. The day kicks off with Masters 40 men, followed by junior men, senior–junior women, masters women, and senior men, all taking to the challenging course. The variety of categories ensures the weekend will be a true test of skill, grit, and endurance.

The event has been organised by the Breffni Wheelers Cycling Club, and outside of the action packed roster of racing, locals view the event as a “huge opportunity” to showcase the county and this venue in particular for its potential for being utilised by off-road cyclists.

Breffni Wheelers has hosted rounds of the Ulster Cyclocross Series here between 2022 and 2024, but this year’s Castle CX event is the most significant yet. I

“From a national perspective, it’s up there with the best,” says Enda Baker, one of the event's organisers. “The accessibility, the grounds, the potential here—it’s a perfect fit for the sport.”

While Castle Saunderson may not yet have all the facilities of long-established venues like Mullaghmeen in Westmeath or the purpose-built trails in Sligo and Wicklow, Enda sees vast untapped potential in the site.

“This is about showing what’s possible,” he explains. “The land and the facilities offer huge potential for off-road cycling—a safe alternative to road cycling and a real opportunity for youth development and building interest in the sport.”

Enda’s vision is clear: he hopes this event will spark a conversation about long-term cycling development in the region. “Ideally, we’d like to see a strategic plan for Castle Saunderson where cycling is fully integrated, and hopefully, with that, the funding to turn that vision into a reality.”