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#LiamOBrien #JamieMeehan #GiroValleDAosta #U23Cycling #MountainClimbs #CyclingRace #LidlTrek #FutureRacing #IrishCyclists #ValsavarenchePont #CyclingClimbers #ProCycling #StageRace #BreakawayRiders #SummitFinish
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Liam O’Brien (Lidl Trek Future Racing) and Jamie Meehan (AVC Aix Provence Dole) have emerged as standout performers in the highly competitive Giro Valle d’Aosta-Mont Blanc (2.2U), one of the most prestigious U23 international stage races. Over the last two stages, both Irish riders have showcased their climbing prowess, positioning themselves among the race’s elite. Their performances have not only highlighted their potential but also significantly improved their general classification standings, with Meehan now 4th overall and O’Brien climbing to 8th.
The queen stage, which covered 160km and featured 4,485m of elevation gain, was a grueling test of endurance and strength. The final climb to Valsavarenche-Pont, a 25.8km ascent averaging five per cent gradient, was tackled in wet conditions. O’Brien and Meehan were part of an elite group of 11 riders who distanced themselves from the peloton. With 4km remaining, O’Brien launched a decisive attack, splitting the group into two. Despite several attacks in the lead group, the race came down to a final burst in the last kilometer. Race leader Jarno Widar (Lotto Development) delivered a powerful sprint to secure the stage win, finishing nine seconds ahead of Jakob Omrzel (Bahrain Victorious Development Team). O’Brien crossed the line in 3rd, just 15 seconds behind, while Meehan finished 9th at 59 seconds, maintaining his composure despite fading in the closing kilometers.
O’Brien’s performance is particularly notable given his rapid progression from Fermoy Cycling Club just two years ago to now being part of Lidl-Trek’s extended team network. His consistent performances in such a demanding race bode well for his future prospects of securing a professional contract. Meanwhile, Meehan, who currently rides at UCI Continental level, has demonstrated his ability to compete at the highest level of U23 racing. His 4th place overall, just 30 seconds off the podium, underscores his potential to make the step up to the professional ranks.
The Giro Valle d’Aosta-Mont Blanc is renowned for its brutal climbs and is closely monitored by World Tour teams as a proving ground for emerging talent. O’Brien and Meehan’s performances in this race will undoubtedly have caught the attention of scouts, signaling their readiness for the next level. Widar continues to dominate the general classification, holding a commanding lead of 3:01 over Jean-Loup Fayolle (Arkéa-B&B Hôtels Continentale). Mateo Pablo Ramírez (UAE Team Emirates Gen Z) sits in 3rd, 3:02 behind Widar, while Meehan is 4th at 3:32 and O’Brien 8th at 4:35.
The race concludes with another challenging summit finish to Breuil Cervinia, offering both Irish riders an opportunity to further improve their standings. Meehan, currently just outside the podium, will be aiming to close the narrow gap, while O’Brien will look to solidify his top-10 position or even challenge for a higher placing. Their performances so far have not only highlighted their individual talents but also brought Irish cycling into the spotlight on the international stage. As they prepare for the final stage, both riders have already demonstrated their ability to compete with the best in the world, setting the stage for promising careers in professional cycling.
