And so it began. Ras na mBan 2012. The usual friendly, warm welcome from Sneem Hotel; the usual amazingly delicious (and nutritious food) and a great night's sleep in a comfy bed.
We woke up to grey skies, wind and driving rain but thankfully the weather forecast turned out to be correct and the rain cleared before the start of the race.
Around 70 riders signed on and at 10:15 am we set off for a ceremonial lap of Sneem Village before racing four laps of the Gortagowan circuit.
Legs felt heavy as we warmed up and all of us were pretty nervous as we lined up at the start. Thankfully the nerves evaporated after a few miles and we started to enjoy the race.
The first lap was fast and the bunch was soon whittled down on the first climb. A few riders managed to get away at various points on the circuit but none of the breaks stuck.
Guest rider Karen was looking strong, staying towards the front of the bunch for the majority of the race and finishing 20th overall. Sarah was amazed to have stayed with the bunch for the entire race (having been dropped early on on this stage in previous years), finishing 35th (in the bunch kick). Iona came in just behind in 40th place. Sandra put in a great effort, having lost contact with the main bunch on the first climb, and finished 59th.
We've just enjoyed a delicious lunch and will soon be getting ready for this afternoon's TT.
