Day 8 - An Overnight Finisher and More to Follow

Day Five - Untangling the Dots

Day Four - It's Not About The Bike.....It's About the Boat!

Day Four- Yesterday’s Summary and the Prospect of Better Weather?!

Day Three. A south westerly blow by south westerly blow update

Day Two. The Overnight Shuffle 

Day One Afternoon

With the final three riders all coming in last night, this is the final update on the 2022 TransAtlanticWay.  

![Final Finishers](//images.ctfassets.net/6hyijb95boju/miLpCRNeflS4vBj6dQxdF/dd6ab100946ebcd3648490115e56ff7b/289438152_5137083116346034_479289546703106542_n.jpg)
*The Final Three; Howard Perkins, Vinny Doyle and Vadym Tiroshko*

First of the trio was Vadym Tiroshko, who despite suffering with a very sore achilles, came in before dark, and despite the now shrinking  band of finish line huggers was his usual ebullient self.  Howard Perkins was not far behind and was the last of the full course Cu Chulainn finishers.  Here at Dotwatcher we love riders who do it their own way and Howard is clearly one of those.  His concocted picnic breakfasts are already becoming legendary and he made a point of camping out every night (it’s always been my view that when you check into a hotel, you check out of the adventure).  Nothing unusual about that you may rightly say but here’s the revolutionary bit. Howard slipped into a pair of pyjamas every night.  Now you're thinking!  Is this the secret of Howard’s endurance, will the enterprising gear producers spot the opportunity and add bikepacking pyjamas to their range?  We will have to wait and see but either way we look forward to following Howard (and his pyjamas) in other bikepacking events.

Finally a recharged Vinny Doyle upped sticks and left his netflix box sets behind for the final 315km push to the finish to become the final rider to complete the 2022 TransAtlanticWay.

![ADR02478](//images.ctfassets.net/6hyijb95boju/6YUXeVbYxEyEXxHLMdVJ2T/910c1fa7a4d08cc7c8ef97ea91a9e759/ADR02478.jpg)

This year’s TAW has been as fascinating to follow as always.  That cruel headwind and rain slowing the whole field in the first few days (almost every rider finishing beyond their planned schedule) and eventually causing quite a few to switch from the full course to the shorter Setanta route.  There were the inevitable mechanicals and some determined and principled dashes to and from off-route bike shops and of course there were the ferries.

![Ferry](//images.ctfassets.net/6hyijb95boju/iFGKxjeWJRAVkI4DEKr4D/3827a47f085aba162b1df8a62f0509ce/ADR01867-01.jpeg)

There are two crossings which both introduce an additional element of jeopardy and intrigue and complicate the planning and schedules for the riders.  Uwe’s powerful ride on day one to make the Lough Swilly Ferry ensured his solitary but impressive ride to a clear first home in the Setanta.  While we won’t forget Sarah Burns' long push from Annes Farm to just make the last ferry across the Shannon at Killimore.  And of course Howard “Pyjamas” Perkins celebrated his 60th birthday onboard at Lough Swilly!

![Omar](//images.ctfassets.net/6hyijb95boju/3cPM3ual9j8HHz8GYQnRkr/4c0e26cc1433d4a4bcea73f4127d5959/7K8A9097.jpg)

Of course, Omar’s first day sprint didn’t pay off, he didn’t quite make the Swilly ferry but it didn’t matter, he just kept his head down and drove on into the headwind, kept his stops and sleep time immaculately short and made riding home first on the Cu Chulainn look comfortable, although it surely wasn’t.

![Annes farm](//images.ctfassets.net/6hyijb95boju/1sD7TDwlHIJK74LrCORzfN/8ce9a511d374f717c2ae7ce82566f964/ADR03769.jpg)

A new highlight on this well-established classic was the “unofficial CP2 at Adrian’s cousin Anne’s farm.  Irish life and hospitality perfectly condensed and clearly providing a warm and very special experience for all of this year's riders who made a visit.

![7K8A0635](//images.ctfassets.net/6hyijb95boju/3RHt6mXDB5cUl6vsnNICQC/4dd76d09feb79b02e6de1bbec232f343/7K8A0635.jpg)

This event is well established and has it’s roots in the Transcontinental and TransAm races but the enigmatic and experienced organiser, Adrian O’Sullivan has ensured that the TAW has it’s own unique character and ethos.  Some may feel that Adrian is too flexible and supportive of riders who cross the usual “rules” of self-supported racing but Adrian has chosen to balance the challenge of a rigorous event with his desire to see as many as possible come away with a completed ride around the spectacular west coast scenery.  

![46 AdrianCrapciu](//images.ctfassets.net/6hyijb95boju/7ApnpEKuA7IiNU7GzmjvLQ/aaaf84c5cb7b7bb53facfc235aca5a55/46_AdrianCrapciu.jpg)

To this end he offers two routes and this year in particular he has been flexible about riders deciding to switch from the longer to the shorter route mid-ride.  He doesn’t refer to TransAtlanticWay as a race but of course, for most it is, at least in one form or another.

![ADR01151](//images.ctfassets.net/6hyijb95boju/79IBSw1W00frwrkJIKU9C0/970959eaab3b94bbc22d1e1aed6efb7d/ADR01151.jpg)

TAW is an event that cultivates a togetherness like no other and those hugs that Adrian inflicts on almost every finisher are genuine measures of the huge affection he feels for everyone who starts TAW.  As a result of Adrian’s approach, the TAW offers something for everyone and is equally suited as a seriously tough challenge, ridden to the highest level by the very strongest but also as a great introduction to the longer multi-day events.  Each year it attracts a cosmopolitan cross section of riders, experienced and new, from all corners of the globe (it was a particular highlight to see Ukrainian Vadym in this year’s TAW).  The routes are spectacularly scenic, never easy and of course, there’s the Atlantic weather which has shaped almost every edition of this event.

Following the dots hasn’t always been easy this year.  There have been a lot of riders switching routes and the usual catalogue of tracker problems.  As a consequence the Trackleaders page is no longer very reliable, so we’ve done our best to compile below a list of finishers from the Dotwatcher records.  We have to emphasise that this is very much a provisional list, times may not be correct and Adrian may yet re-categorise riders between the two routes. 

Photo Credits @boyonhisbike @adriancrapciu @fergus_coyle

__Cu Chulainn Finishers__ (This is an unofficial and provisional list compiled by Dotwatcher) 

Omar Di Felice	6d10h43m
Mark Donnelly-Orr	6d15h30m
Ken van Someren	7d8h20m
Juhani Saario	7d10h54m
Tony Keane	7d17h02m
Tom Downes	7d19h29m
Filippo Nicoli	7d20h23m
Sarah Cinquini 	8d13h40m
Noel Cusack  	8d14h26m
Jörg-ingo Scheffel 8d17h30m??
Sarah Burns 	9d7h46m
Sjoerd Witjes		9d7h50m
Tyrone Kennedy 	9d11h26m
Colin Addison 		9d15h03m
Howard Perkins 9d20h09m

__Setanta Finishers__  (This is an unofficial and provisional list compiled by Dotwatcher) 

Uwe Schmidt		4d20h41m
Niel Copeland	         5d16h15m
Fenton Curley	         5d19h30m
Ant Day			6d20h10m
John Bakewell		7d07h03m
Mark Sadler		7d12h07m
Tim Lewis			7d14h10m
Steven Bishop		7d17h09m
Chris Noonan		7d18h06m
Jason Schreurs		7d20h20m
Christophe Peger  	8d8h31m 
Jan Maoy 			8d13h27m
Craig Brookes 		8d16h05m
Peter Fortune 		8d16h55m
Grischa Flaving 	8d18h??m
Stuart Fahey 		8d20h20m
Jonathan Lloyd 		9d6h??m
Andy Gorman 		9d10h20m
Marina Sonzogni  9d14h40m (switched to the Setanta route in the last couple of days)
Chris & Oliver Ball 	9d16h20m
Vadym Tiroshko 	10d16h26m
Vinny Doyle 10d22h05m (omitted a few loops on the final day so may claim the longest Setanta variation!)
Gillian  Power 		8d9h05m (missed out the section between Donegal and Sligo due to a mechanical)

Two others completed the ride to Cork but did not fully complete either course 
Gillian Power (Rode the Setanta Course, omitting the section between Donegal and Sligo due to a mechanical)
Mary Mackay (Rode the Cu Chulainn, initially as part of a pair, then riding solo until following a shorter permutation after the Gap of Dunloe)


The Last Riders Reach Cork

There was a real party atmosphere in Cork on Saturday with increasing numbers of riders already in, waiting with family and friends to greet finishers who had timed their rides to perfection in order to make Saturday nights party!

Jonathan lloyd was first in, although his defunct tracker gave the impression that he was stalled halfway up a hill between Skibereen and Clonakilty (and it still does but don't worry he's safe and sound in Cork)

![7K8A2555](//images.ctfassets.net/6hyijb95boju/27vRgTPFXlpStfY30e36Rh/7d55bc2fa7c01ab161f52cac18e283d5/7K8A2555.jpg)
Sjoerd Witjes arrived at lunchtime, eleventh finisher on the Cu Chulainn.

![7K8A2574](//images.ctfassets.net/6hyijb95boju/2Y6JdAJVsc4HF7Zdr9RrGj/874bc9d28d648cc6ef9c978840a750a5/7K8A2574.jpg)
Immediately after Sjoerd came Sarah Burns, second Cu Chulainn woman, who in a beautiful moment that epitomises the camaraderie of these events, was greeted with a hug from Sarah Cinquini.  Sarah’s ride has become legendary in its unfolding and those who have followed this thread will understand why it has earned her the title “Ferry Queen”!

![7K8A2586](//images.ctfassets.net/6hyijb95boju/6p3dEguXhGJYN5aOnXbIi4/f7e9ba0fab43d08db380bea53d7c9ef7/7K8A2586.jpg)
Sjoerd and Sarah were followed a few hours later by Andy Gorman and an hour later, Tyrone Kennedy who arrived to probably the best support ever seen from roadside dot watchers with his fans creating a carnival finish with hand-crafted banners, balloons, a bouquet of flowers and a bottle or two.

![7K8A2628](//images.ctfassets.net/6hyijb95boju/4ENUYv35iisMfpQjJ0DHWj/92fdc4fa63d6c317a79a6100e83ab4df/7K8A2628.jpg)
![IMG 4897](//images.ctfassets.net/6hyijb95boju/6qGnEoHWH6A00sMlnpNFQ/7b60527b830cd4f26436444b3cfe284b/IMG_4903.JPG)
A few minutes after Tyrone, Marina Sonzogni and Kermit arrived to more smiles and hugs.  Like others, Marina has taken advantage of the permutations offered by Adrians interlocked routes so that she coincided with the party.  However, just to updtage everyone else she shot past the finish, stright into an underground car park where she demonsstrated her passion for Irish hills witha little bit of extra climbing.  Although Adrian suggests she just nipped in to change to a clean jersey for her finish photos....as if!

![7K8A2703](//images.ctfassets.net/6hyijb95boju/2zwlRGbVk9gUU24fWZzWl9/72ac56a086ffc063cc13f325bcba3136/7K8A2703.jpg)
![IMG 4936](//images.ctfassets.net/6hyijb95boju/1odhB8qtfcXVzXGnIj1RXF/8bf497fb69d0efc09a52c73a05432283/IMG_4936.JPG)
Next in, for a reunion with his starting partner Mary, was Colin Addison.  Colin and Mary Mackay started the ride as a pair but after a few days came to a mutual agreement to ride separately, with Mary being another rider who finished via a permutation route while Colin continued along the Cu Chulainn course.

![7K8A2747](//images.ctfassets.net/6hyijb95boju/7yuNCTR6UKyMUm4zG5TENJ/2a02f225d8b70c3d678cdef987fd6e15/7K8A2747.jpg)
Perfect timing was displayed by everyone’s favourite pair, Chris and Ollie ball, who pedalled straight to the party for “probably the best timed lager and curry finish in the world” (although you have to wonder if son Ollie should have slowed the pace to make sure they finished on Father’s Day).  Incredible bonds are forged during unsupported multi-day events, often between riders who previously didn’t know one another at all.  What special bonds must have been established between a father and son sharing such an incredible experience?

![7K8A2802](//images.ctfassets.net/6hyijb95boju/3NRtSJK958MPJ2lBv1ppID/f34a945142f95bea25cce11f97338c86/7K8A2802.jpg)
![7K8A2794](//images.ctfassets.net/6hyijb95boju/4XkclT4Nhi4b1KfXULzk7e/ec1e65f308ac7669f3cc660d2801f872/7K8A2794.jpg)
The lure of the party brought those within reach of Cork, home in good time on Saturday but there have been no more finishers since Chris and Ollie last night.

However, three riders are still pedalling, no doubt appreciating that in Ireland, every day is a party day.  Ukrainian Vadym Tiroshko has had a few set-backs but pushes on, flying the flag for his troubled country.  Howard Perkins grabbed 3 hours sleep last night at Sheeps Head and is now a short distance behind Vadym.  Both are expected in around midnight tonight.

Finally, new Lanterne Rouge is Vinny Doyle.  Vinny is making his debut on a ride of this length and given the headwinds and rain of the first few days, the mechanical problems that he has suffered and the tough mental challenge of keeping going for so long around such an elaborate route in and out of those fingers of west coast Ireland, he deserves huge credit for sticking with the Cu Chulainn.  Vinny is determined to finish and so has taken a recovery break on the Beara peninsula.

So tomorrow should see the conclusion of the seventh edition of the Transatlantic Way.  We’ll post a final summary and conclusions once we know everyone is in and have gathered together any crucial tittle-tattle.

![822B99C8-24CC-4BED-BB76-42B93ABC312D](//images.ctfassets.net/6hyijb95boju/7us0vrpeJDLpRlU0mvS1en/a99ce14a5de97ced443464389c55fd80/822B99C8-24CC-4BED-BB76-42B93ABC312D.jpeg)
*Howard's Sheeps Head Bed*

Photo Credits @fergus_coyle @boyonhisbike

Day 10 & 11 - Saturday Was Party Day, Sunday Awaits a Finisher

We had a steady stream of riders coming into Cork yesterday.  Following Sarah Cinquini,  Noel Cusack and Jörg-ingo Scheffel took the final top ten finish places in the Cu Chulainn.

*Noel Cusack*
![IMG 4862](//images.ctfassets.net/6hyijb95boju/1WWG7oUEnsYgiCnJ5CqusB/dd23971a776e64566bc239594bbef495/IMG_4862.JPG)

Christophe Peger, Jan Maoy, Craig Brookes and Peter Fortune (the first of the pairs, although they came home separated by almost an hour and have ridden slightly apart for much of the ride) and Grischa Flaving all completed the Setanta course before midnight (or a longer permutation containing some early sections of the Cu Chulainn).  Stuart Fahey came home not long after and Mary Mackay completed her freestyle finish with a big push from Kenmare that saw her arrive in Cork this morning just before sunrise.  The rest of the field all bedded down for the night and most should make it into Cork later today.

*Christophe Peger*
![IMG 4728](//images.ctfassets.net/6hyijb95boju/4BgwcAbF8WdOslkBUIoutA/81800ada252fc10280b0ede0b03a5a61/IMG_4728.JPG)

*Jan Måøy*
![IMG 4794](//images.ctfassets.net/6hyijb95boju/2BDiGM8sMR3XQ61UgmY5pu/c9052c506efd5158deeed6dc0f3a19e2/IMG_4794.JPG)

Photo Credits @boyonhisbike

Who Else Is In?

Congratulations to Sarah Cinquini who came home to an emotional finish in Cork this evening, a top ten finish and the first woman on the Cu Chulainn (long course).  Sarah’s ride completes an Italian double after Omar Di Felice was first man to finish.

![IMG 4820](//images.ctfassets.net/6hyijb95boju/1xeWoKkZ4AxWkUWA5hYx9w/01efcbccb22d66c42448d8a2560940d3/IMG_4820.JPG)

Sarah's ride has been strong throughout and despite plenty of hills and some rough road surfaces, she needed just a little over 60 hours to complete  the final 800km since leaving Tralee on Wednesday morning.  She clearly knows how to look after herself and during the middle stages of her ride banked some quality nights of sleep which must have helped maintain her strong ride all the way to Cork.

It was disappointing to see Sarah Burns losing contact with SC after the missed turn last night but given the gap and the strength of SC’s finish, it seems unlikely she would have been caught anyway.  Sarah B is now on the final south coast run, headed towards Clonakilty.  Looking at her dot, it might appear as though she has missed another turn  but it seems she has found herself a comfy overnight stop and will now enjoy a daylight ride along the coast to Cork tomorrow.

![IMG 4745](//images.ctfassets.net/6hyijb95boju/5Jm4dZPZLKVeqy4qwDs4cd/c701f164c3f3198016b7a8f26fabbd1c/IMG_4745.JPG)

Gillian Power also finished her ride earlier in the afternoon. Gillian was riding the Setanta but a mechanical problem caused her to miss out a section of the route between Donegal and Sligo.  The fact that she pressed on and completed her ride is in many ways all the more impressive, following such a disappointment.  Adrian has indicated that Gillian will be recorded as a “Ride to the Finish”, no time (to be fair to everyone else) but better than DNF.  Were sure Gillian will be philosophical about this and from my experience, a few years down the line you never remember your position or time but you always remember the people, the places, the joy, the pain, the adventure and Gillian must have accumulated these memories in spades.

Adrian has also indicated that Mary Mackay, who has opted to cycle a reduced version of both routes, will also have her finish credited.  

![ADR05018-01](//images.ctfassets.net/6hyijb95boju/7ANUAkLvrzTXCre7tUWEUy/6d21c5ec161b2faa8897f3079b80e0e5/ADR05018-01.jpeg)

We’ve seen a few others scratch in the last 48 hours, some giving in to the continuing attrition of the ride and their weakening bodies but no doubt some having an appointment with work on Monday while others may just be prioritising the finishers party over a finish!

On the other hand, Howard Perkins is quite relaxed about not getting in for a few days yet.  He now not only looks a strong bet for lanterne rouge but judging by his stream of picnic bench breakfasts posted on Insta, every day is a party and he will be squeezing more value out of the TAW than anyone.

Photo Credits @boyonhisbike @adriancrapciu

It's an Italian Double!

Another 7 riders came home overnight.  Setanta finishers, Steven Bishop, Chris Noonan and Jason Schreurs and on the Cu Chulainn, Tony Keane, Tom Downes and Filippo Nicoli.  Below, we’ve done our best to summarise the finishers so far but remember, there have been changes between courses and final results and timings are all yet to be confirmed.

*Tony Keane and that Pringles front fork tube!*
![IMG 4528](//images.ctfassets.net/6hyijb95boju/1wh3LubCko9Eq5xMxix6Bp/dc7bea4b50ce6a8d7cd45eeed64caf0e/IMG_4528.JPG)
*Strongman, Steven Bishop*
![IMG 4577](//images.ctfassets.net/6hyijb95boju/6dID9XAZ7E4mkdHNTASLNz/6fd95e796c22c749bfa47348875a7d15/IMG_4562.JPG)
*Chris Noonan needs to practice some grim "it's tough out there" expressions, he's always smiling!*
![IMG 4620](//images.ctfassets.net/6hyijb95boju/ejsNRaAPp9688bJPE9om1/b5c53c9416400d7e14450ad89062485d/IMG_4620.JPG)
*Fifth Cu Chulainn finisher Tom Downes*
![IMG 4651](//images.ctfassets.net/6hyijb95boju/2snu6gjA7ohKm7xWbogjLp/70daae81d55af3e4c79440ce80ba9f36/IMG_4651.JPG)
*Filippo Nicoli and Jason Schreurs finished together but on different courses*
![IMG 4688](//images.ctfassets.net/6hyijb95boju/3IAqcMiWbfldLzJipXp1uh/751c156f8e84a42efbe149618f6c7246/IMG_4688.JPG)

After a late night and with a bit of time in hand before the next finishers are due, the band of huggers are no doubt enjoying a lie-in this morning in preparation for a large number of finishers expected later today.

That said, it doesn’t get easier for anyone at this stage. Noel Cussack lost his front light forcing a detour yesterday.  He sorted a replacement and was able to ride after dark last night and looks likely to be in before nightfall today.  Vinny Doyle suffered that often fatal condition, rear mech into the spokes and diverted to Killarney for repairs but has returned to his departure point and continues his ride.

Meanwhile, Sarah Burns has posted this morning describing how mentaly tough she found it after missing that turn last night and losing 2hrs.  Her hope of reaching the finish in Cork without a further stop was dashed and she ended up taking a room at 2am.  The mental struggle and the challenge of turning things around is a huge part of the compulsion and the test of strength for riders like Sarah and she’s using a full Irish this morning to reset and then push on.  We’ve no doubt she’ll be one of those into Cork later tonight.

![7K8A1630](//images.ctfassets.net/6hyijb95boju/7w7RpcN8KZSYrUnDR4u9bx/c2cb55617ddcb2f7264813eb39f113d3/7K8A1630.jpg)

__Cu Chulainn Finishers__ (provisional)
1. Omar Di Felice	6d10h43m
2. Mark Donnelly-Orr	6d15h30m
3. Ken van Someren	7d8h20m
4. Juhani Saario	7d10h54m
5. Tony Keane	7d17h02m
6. Tom Downes	7d19h29m
7. Filippo Nicoli	7d20h23m

__Setanta Finishers__ (provisional)
1. Uwe Schmidt		4d20h41m
2. Niel Copeland	   5d16h15m
3. Fenton Curley	   5d19h30m
4. Ant Day			6d20h10m
5. John Bakewell		7d07h03m
6. Mark Sadler		7d12h07m
7. Tim Lewis			7d14h10m
8. Steven Bishop		7d17h09m
9. Chris Noonan		7d18h06m
10. Jason Schreurs		7d20h20m

Photo Credits @boyonhisbike @adriancrapciu @fergus_coyle

Day 9 Morning Catch-Up

Following Ant Day’s night arrival (how I wish I’d thought of the “Day and Night” headline earlier!), next rider in was my personal favourite, John Bakewell.  John and I first met in 2015 on a scorching hot day during the third TCR and he has been building his endurance palmares ever since.  He arrived, fifth Setanta finisher, to enjoy an emotional reunion with his wife and an ice-cream.  I’ve been deliberately ambiguous in the reference to the ice cream because there’s something in the way he’s looking at it that makes me wonder…

![IMG 4403](//images.ctfassets.net/6hyijb95boju/1YzarsO6q3yb9UhDaPuRbo/167c3b7dfdc4f6417b1ba8bf5f96b53f/IMG_4403.JPG)
![IMG 4422](//images.ctfassets.net/6hyijb95boju/50f5pgfKbEs7zbndcvlwBL/5f651ef354bd2e2ffbcb89d49b80ea69/IMG_4422.JPG)

Lunchtime saw the arrival of the third and fourth Cu Chulainn riders into Cork;  Ken Van Someren and a short time after, Finnish rider Juhani Saario.

![IMG 4477](//images.ctfassets.net/6hyijb95boju/4WrsoTtQ9z3HXV0g4Op7Kq/38db6bf5b2c53b78dc88cd4592b8faeb/IMG_4477.JPG)

Juhani has been driving hard over the last couple of days and we now understand why.  He’s catching a flight tomorrow and going straight off to compete in the world’s longest orienteering event.  So TAW was just a warm-up.  Juhani is taking away the awards for both smallest bar bag and longest seat pack.

![IMG 4448](//images.ctfassets.net/6hyijb95boju/toPjytQ8QXhqdvsDXFkdx/403dadc8230e52c8e9c31c35fdeb26cd/IMG_4448.JPG)

Ken has been using his ride to promote his gofundme page, raising funds to combat Motor Neurone Disease, a cause inspired by a good friend who has been recently diagnosed.  He surely won’t be disappointed to have just missed his target of completing TAW in 7 days when he sees he’s already exceeded his €4,000 fundraising target.  His page emphasises the contrast between the self-inflicted temporary suffering of TAW and the lifetime challenge faced by those dealing with MND.  Thanks Ken, it’s important to retain a perspective on this crazy game.  Follow Ken's social media links to make a donation.

Ken and Juhani were followed later in the afternoon by two more setanta riders, Mark Sadler and Tim Lewis (Tim switched from the Cu Chulainn early on but his details are still to be updated on Trackleaders)

![ADR04319-01](//images.ctfassets.net/6hyijb95boju/1mt5ph8CNc2iiNQsZS7mv5/54a7f96720e4a39d97a2970abcba5d16/ADR04319-01.jpeg)
*Mark Sadler enjoying his final adternoon, the wind and rain already a distant memory!*

![IMG 4514](//images.ctfassets.net/6hyijb95boju/7CHCgdIVVIiTgOspkSsByV/2724b3c9afc099fde4ce5a814e483f7f/IMG_4514.JPG)
*Tim Lewis.  Is he reflecting on the last seven days or just bracing himself for the hug from Adrian?*

You’ll recall that Sarah Burns kept us all on tenterhooks a couple of days ago as she time-trialled to the ferry.  Well she’s serving up some more trauma tonight, having apparently taken a wrong turn just after Healy Pass at the turn to Castletownbere.  It’s easily done on TAW with the route doubling back and crossing itself numerous times.  Sarah has now turned round and is back on route but not before adding 40km to her ride, grrrrr!
That means that Sarah Cinquini looks almost certain to be the first woman home.  With less than 300km to go, she should be arriving for her hug with Adrian some time later tomorrow.

![7K8A1689](//images.ctfassets.net/6hyijb95boju/3K7skuANEDSnmtWCGSWcMg/290461650ce56f984337bea6d888e062/7K8A1689.jpg)
*Earlier on, in a beautiful moment that highlights the peculiar and powerful bond that develops almost from the outset between riders on a self-supported endurance event, even if they hardly see one another, the two Sarah's embraced when their paths crossed at another route intersection.*

Now, if he’s going to hug them all then our Supervillain is not going to get much sleep tonight.  There’s another ten riders within 200km of Cork and all could make it between now and breakfast.  Just to keep him on his toes, we’ll do our best to publish every hug tomorrow morning!

Sadly, Emily Robinson has been forced to scratch due to a persistent knee problem that hasn’t responded to rest.  She wisely called it a day at Tralee and has now joined the “band of huggers” in Cork. And unsurprisingly, Schermers neck sufferer Robert Jonsson has also called time on his ride.  As I often say to myself, scratching is just another adventure and in time the memories are cherished just as much as a completion….and there’s always next year.
![ADR04208-01](//images.ctfassets.net/6hyijb95boju/1oJNFgB801fvuv4U63vKtE/19c3cd742628b672227c75ab4b53c4a9/ADR04208-01.jpeg)

Photo Credits @boyonhisbike @adriancrapciu @fergus_coyle

Day 8 - Hugs, Smiles, Tears and Family Reunions in Cork

First news of the morning is that Ant Day is the third Setanta rider into Cork.  He pressed  on until just after 1am to complete a 300km last day push from Kenmare, becoming the final rider this year to complete either course in under 7 days.  Ant is the first of the Setanta riders to finish from amongst those who made the decision to switch from the Cu Chulainn during those early days of oppressive winds, so he has a few more miles in his legs than Uwe and Niel.

![IMG 4371](//images.ctfassets.net/6hyijb95boju/1iW8gbLlIoEHwvNlFAWgi6/91dac321e873d5b33ba30fffe74116d3/IMG_4371.JPG)

Behind Ant, Ken Van Someren and Juhani Saario have continued their jousting for fourth and fifth finish on the Cu Chulainn.  Juhani went ahead briefly after Ken took a break in Bantry but both riders then stopped for a short sleep, with Juhani stopping first and longest Ken is now back in front, having apparently grabbed some rest at a sawmill that manufactures hot tubs and camping pods (draw your own conclusions).  Along with Setanta rider John Bakewell, who also took a brief sleep at a closed petrol station in the small hours, they should reach Cork around lunchtime today.

Great news from Ukrainian rider, Vadym.  He is back riding and made his way back north from Limerick to the point where he departed from the route and has now resumed his setanta ride and for now at least, claims lanterne rouge.

Finally, here's a lovely photo of yesterday's full course finishers.  First rider Omar Di Felice greets second rider Mark Donnelly-Orr who came in five hours apart and both looking far too comfortable!

![IMG 4343](//images.ctfassets.net/6hyijb95boju/7Ld2FRjoPtzwEnIzQ6UNtl/06cbb622440736286e07279ee2de5c61/IMG_4343.JPG)


Mark Donnelly-Orr has just rolled in to take second finish in the Cu Chulainn, having never stopped trying to catch Omar (you'll find him in the nearest Italian restaurant Mark). His provisional time; 6 days, 15 hours and 30 minutes.  Great ride Mark.

Following on from Sarah Burns hug from her mum last night, Mark's proud parents were awaiting his arrival.  I imagine there was some competition with Adrian for the first embrace!

![IMG 4335](//images.ctfassets.net/6hyijb95boju/39ZFloA6NK7Xk4pRSSZWsS/690e542731edde95726a7cdbe2615e0f/IMG_4335.JPG)

![ADR04076-01](//images.ctfassets.net/6hyijb95boju/f1Ogs0JCnaAbIV9nkIDBB/4ef45864e681d7ee039e77a016d1b402/ADR04076-01.jpeg)
*Mark on the final glorious run to Kinsale*

Further back and with a little over 200km to race, Ken Van Someren and Juhani Saario have been locked closely together all day in the race for third place.  In fact so close that their dots have often been indistinguishable from one another.  Looks like it's going down to who has the stamina to ride long tonight.

In a similar vein, Filippo Nicoli has been putting in a big effort over the last few days to emerge from the mid-pack and now threatens to catch fifth place rider Tony Keane.  But again, Filippo has been driving hard and must be in need of rest and we know Tony can push a long night stint, so catching him will be hard. However, things change in the closing changes, riders suddenly find themselves driven to get to the finish and provided they comply with Adrian’s rest rules, they can now afford to burn all their matches.  So things could still change.

Amongst the women, and in ninth place overall, Sarah Cinquini maintains the lead from Sarah Burns by about the same distance as this morning but they probably still have two nights ahead of them and again, nothing is certain yet.  Including Gillian Power, there are still five women riding the Cu Chulainn, with Marina Sonzogni maintaining her lead over Claire Lilley, who comfortably made the 8pm ferry across the Shannon estuary having left Anne’s farm first thing this morning.

Further back, the weather hasn’t been quite as kind as it has been for riders reaching the south west and as I mentioned previously, the front riders have it easy in comparison to those who are out for many more days, facing more of the varying conditions and a greater probability of things going wrong.  Dave Walker, who reported saddle sores a couple of days ago,  has decided that enough is enough and has sadly scratched and is making his way to Cork, while Robert Jonsson has been struck by the bizarre and crippling  “Schermers neck” condition.  He’s taking some time out at Doolin and treating the condition with rest and a few beers but with a long way still to go, we can only wish him well.  Take care Robert and above all, stay safe.  As it stands, by default he has, at least for now, robbed Howard Perkins of his prized lanterne rouge position!

![7K8A0261](//images.ctfassets.net/6hyijb95boju/2MOkAb9ChdTc8JjXOW9w1e/f64ef5c4f0de5e5cbe20ea005335886d/7K8A0261.jpg)

Meanwhile there may be concerns for Ukrainian rider Vadym Tiroshko who’s dot is showing off-route in Limerick.  Don’t despair just yet though, Vadym has a damaged wheel and is seeking repairs before getting back on route. Slava Ukraini!

![7K8A0192](//images.ctfassets.net/6hyijb95boju/1F86CWgBObCBUdodyppwHm/4b13a5aacbf4b898c3832cab5bf66738/7K8A0192.jpg)
*Vadym Tiroshko, Chris and Ollie Ball, all looking as though they're having fun!*

Finally, there may only be one true pairs team riding now, with most having either scratched or separated (I'll try to confirm this tomorrow).  Father and son team, Chris and Ollie Ball from London’s South West Road Club, remain solidly together and should be across the Shannon first thing in the morning.  Their ride has been well measured and I have a hunch they are going to be finishers.

Photo Credits; @boyonhisbike @adriancrapciu @fergus_coyle

Cu Chulainn - Mark is Second Finisher and Everyone is Playing Happy Families.

A few pictures from Omar's finish.  Rolling in at the end of a self-supported endurance race is always and intentionally something of an anti-climax, with little triumph, just a nod to the end of an adventure.  For the early and the late finishers, there are often few people around to see them in (sometimes no-one at all) but it never matters.  The satisfaction mostly comes from within and I think you can see that in Omar's face.

![IMG 4286](//images.ctfassets.net/6hyijb95boju/1L9Ndxx8w5G1eHI3Hbl3Ua/8a76024dd824137053ec3ec3651e2eee/IMG_4286.JPG)
![IMG 4311](//images.ctfassets.net/6hyijb95boju/25R19JB1Ev51lbZQXfWnfK/3e8c3ee3057f5c51aa89430cbd53067b/IMG_4311.JPG)

The Race Control team were there of course and Adrian pedalled in with Omar for the last couple of km, escorting him towards that precious finishers hug and congratulations from Jason Woodhouse, Brendan Cassidy and last nights finisher, Niel Copeland.

![IMG 4300](//images.ctfassets.net/6hyijb95boju/7qsphlDQPFOjF26YJ6tcKW/61932fc292407e99af01d85de937182f/IMG_4300.JPG)

Cork is a great place to end a bike ride, a place to chill out and reflect.  A cosmopolitan and vibrant mix of modern and traditional Ireland.  But first things first, the always immaculate Omar is going to start with a shower, followed by some Italian food!

![IMG 4320](//images.ctfassets.net/6hyijb95boju/5CgKA9mPhlnyy5SGw31udK/20edad3d18129cdb3781b55648f96d30/IMG_4320.JPG)

All photos @boyonhisbike

......He Looks As Though He Could Keep Going

And he’s in!  Omar Di Felice has dominated the 2,466km of the full Cu Chulainn route right from the start when he stated his intention with his sprint for the first Lough Swilly ferry, just missing it before then pulling away from everyone else and opening a significant gap that by Sunday had become unassailable.  But endurance races are never done until riders reach the finish and this years riders had to contend with some of the toughest conditions experienced yet in the seven runnings of this event.

![ADR04022](//images.ctfassets.net/6hyijb95boju/2vFm6xwjnxvjlwhNyJUsBF/380c907bc88c79d2dc9d5efa59a4fef6/ADR04022.jpg)
![ADR04015](//images.ctfassets.net/6hyijb95boju/69eQGJJVRLUooVJbyqRTnN/43e159b8828a395b113f181f4966223b/ADR04015.jpg)

Omar made full use of his experience and rode a very balanced race.  It’s been a pleasure to follow his posts on social media too because he clearly found time to enjoy the landscape and in his own words “turned a dream into reality”.  His unofficial ride time, 6 days, 10hrs and 35mins is extremely creditable.  Averaging 401km each day, despite the shocking headwinds of the first four days.  Perhaps not surprisingly, Omar took 10 hours longer to ride the first half of the race when compared with the second half.  Immense congratulations Omar for your pace, race strategy and for embracing the Irish countryside and the fun spirit of the race.

Photo Credits @adriancrapciu

And He's In!  Omar Di Felice Is First Rider Home on the Full Cu Chulainn Route

Mike Sheldrake

Omar Di Felice

This race along the Wild Atlantic Way on the west coast of Ireland returns for 2022.

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