Cycling Ireland is thrilled to announce the selection of 13 junior riders for the 2025 Performance Pathway Programme (PPP). Now entering its sixth year, this enhanced initiative continues to identify, develop, and transition Ireland’s most talented junior cyclists into elite senior training environments.

Building on the success of previous years, the Performance Pathway Programme offers a robust, evidence-based framework. Delivered by Cycling Ireland’s High-Performance coaches and experts from various disciplines, the programme is designed to equip athletes with the skills, knowledge, and support necessary to reach their full sporting potential.

A pivotal aspect of the programme is the Performance Pathway Squad, a select group of riders chosen through a rigorous selection process. While the programme provides comprehensive education and development opportunities for all participating athletes, the squad represents the pinnacle of the pathway, consisting of riders who demonstrate the greatest potential for high-performance success. These athletes will receive targeted support, including tailored training plans, expert consultations, and preparation for elite U23 and senior competition.

The benefits of the Performance Pathway Programme include:

- Individual feedback and input on training programmes
- Access to physiological testing and performance analysis
- Educational workshops and life skills development
- Expert-led sessions on sports nutrition and sports psychology
- Regular training camps designed to prepare athletes for international competition

Martin Black

Michael Black, Cycling Ireland High-Performance Pathway Lead, commented: “This year’s selection process reflects the incredible growth we’re seeing in junior cycling across all disciplines. The talent pool is deeper than ever, making it both exciting and challenging to identify a select group of riders who are ready to take the next step. Our goal with the Performance Pathway Programme is to create a comprehensive environment where athletes can learn, develop, and thrive at their own pace, equipping them for the demands of elite competition.

“What’s unique about this programme is that it isn’t a one-size-fits-all approach. Every rider’s journey is different, and we aim to provide tailored support that addresses their individual needs. The focus is on long-term growth—building not just strong cyclists, but resilient athletes who can successfully transition to the elite level.”

Martin Irvine

Martyn Irvine, Cycling Ireland High-Performance Pathway Coach, added: “This programme is about much more than just developing fast riders—it’s about shaping resilient, well-rounded athletes who can thrive in the high-performance environment. It’s exciting to work with this group of talented juniors and guide them through their next steps in the sport. The skills, experiences, and insights they’ll gain as part of this programme will be invaluable as they progress in their careers.”

Cycling Ireland would like to remind participants and the wider cycling community that the PPP is independent of Irish national team selection. National team selection processes are governed by separate criteria, and participation in the PPP has no direct influence on future selections.


2025 Performance Pathway Programme Selection:

Aliyah Rafferty
Cameron Henry
Conor Murphy
Curtis McKee
David Gaffney
Greta Lawless
Hugh Og Mulhearne
Jack Woods
Maximilian Fitzgerald
Philip O'Connor
Rory Condon
Ryan Daly
Toby Sweetman

Some of the Cycling Ireland team warming up before the UCI CX World Cup

Cycling Ireland congratulates all selected riders and looks forward to launching the Performance Pathway Plan in the coming weeks, providing a clear roadmap for the next generation of Irish cycling talent.