Gullen continues fine year with big win in Ireland

The Lancaster-based rider attacked in the final two kilometres to take a solo victory in Dingle in front of roaring crowds on Tuesday.

The Pedal Heaven man challenged several times on the category one climb of Conor Pass and despite being behind at the summit with seven kilometres to go, Gullen caught those ahead on the descent before going on to take the stage and move up to sixth overall in the standings.

The 27-year-old, who finished second in the Motorpoint Spring Cup, said: “This stage was incredible.

“The gorgeous panoramic views on the climbs were just breathtaking. I felt like stopping to take it all in.

“I’m chuffed with the win. We’ll play it by ear now and just take each day as it comes and hopefully you might be speaking to me again!”

The eight-day UCI Continental stage race finishes this Sunday, May 29, with Gullen currently the highest placed British rider.

Austria’s Clemens Fankhauser, of the Tirol Cycling Team, is the current leader.