James Armstrong has had a fantastic season and now the teenager has secured his first win of the campaign (Photo: Toby Watson)
James Armstrong (U19 Academy Région Sud powered by Giant) has enjoyed a breakthrough season in 2026 as a second-year junior, including being selected onto the national team at domestic and international races, and now he has a first win of the year.
The 18-year-old has raced so strongly through the campaign, and has a series of silver medals in championship racing, including the junior TT and road race at the Nationals in June and also the Ulster Criterium Championships.
But at the Mountnugent GP in Co Cavan this evening, Saturday, he pulled clear in a small breakaway group and had too much for his rivals in the final sprint to the line.
Raced over 11 laps of a 4.5km circuit, making for Belgian-style kermesse racing in Mountnugent, Armstrong raced into the final with just two other riders for company.
Last year’s Junior Tour of Ireland winner, Matthew Walls (APS Pro Cycling by Team Cadence Cyclery) was with him, along with strongly local club rider, Mickey Flaherty (Moynalty Cycling Club).
It was Armstrong with led the way, from Walls, with Flaherty right behind them, rounding out the podium on the night.
Sat, Aug 1st | Mountnugent Grand Prix
Mountnugent, Co Cavan
Promoted by Navan Road Club
James Armstrong U19 Academy Région Sud powered by Giant
Matthew Walls APS Pro Cycling by Team Cadence Cyclery
Mickey Flaherty Moynalty Cycling Club
More to come