THE Curragh to Curragh Cycle is a big part of the Pat Smullen Raceday and those who took part needed their raingear on what was a wet morning and afternoon.

Roughly half the cyclists departed from the Curragh grandstand at 10am on a 95km route which - for the first time - took in Pat’s home village of Rhode, Co Offaly. A prayer was said passing the local graveyard.

Another group of cyclists headed off from HQ at 11am on a shorter 60km route. The two groups merged at Kildangan Stud at 2pm for a food stop, before travelling the final 15km to the Curragh where they were applauded as they cycled past the grandstand just before the Round Tower Stakes.

Half an hour later, the cyclists - and supporters - gathered in an attempt to break the world record for the biggest number of people in one place wearing yellow cycling jerseys. Although it was initially thought that the record of 270 had been beaten, event organiser Gavin Lynch later confirmed that they had come up a little short on the day. “We might try again next year,” Gavin posted on social media. “If you know of anyone that might sponsor another bunch of yellow jerseys, please let me know. ‘Twas a mighty day.”

If they would accept jerseys with emerald green and gold hoops, white cap, we think we know someone who could help.

Web: curraghtocurragh.ie