Stage 2: East Clare

Loads of you may be watching the Tour de France just now, the epic breaks, the emotion, the crashes, the wins and the disappointment.

Most bike riders dream of being in this race and, based on the laws of probability, at least a few of the 102 teenage lads riding the Junior Tour of Ireland this year will make it.

This race is really important to them and it shows. The inexperience of some of them is palpable, but the rate at which most of them are learning is inspirational. 

Our lads had a much healthier breakfast than on the 1st morning, suggesting they'd listened to the team talk the night before. There were still a few ragged edges in organisation to be sorted, but they all arrived on time for warm-up and did what they were supposed to.

Rolling out of the hotel in the team car, I was really excited. We'd got spare wheels, wet weather bags and food all ready. Stephen was primed in the back-seat ready to provide service and Alan was in the driving seat. Race radio was tuned in and we were off.

Being in the convoy, you don't always see much, but you live every second of the race. The Junior Tour of Ireland is amazing......organised by the great-and-good of Irish cycling in only the way they could. Chilled, hospitable, friendly and professional. Nothing is too much trouble and the riders are central. There's an unwritten rule that everyone looks out for them, regardless of team affiliation. Of course, bias creeps in but caring never creeps out.  

The stage was one for the sprinters, rolling but no major climbs. Joe had a tough day, Lewis used all his skill to make up for his developing engine, Stuart buried himself for Calum who ended up with a top 10 finish.

When the lads were tucked up in bed, the support team managed a few very nice pints of Guinness, to the sound of Irish Dancers and music.

A good day all round.