DRUMKEEN cyclist Mitchell McLaughlin is hoping to make waves as he prepares for his first race with the Zappi Racing Team.
McLaughlin signed with Zappi in 2019 and the former Four Masters Cycling Club member will don their colours for the first time on Sunday.
The Donegal youngster rides in the San Bernardinse race in Ravenna, Italy. The 120km race comes after McLaughlin spent five days in a training block with the Zappi team in Riccione.
“I’m buzzing now for my first race,” McLaughlin told Donegal Daily/Donegal Sport Hub.
“I’ve had a great experience with Zappi Racing so far. They’re a very well organised team and they have plenty of races to suit me and the other riders in 2020.
Mitchell Mc Laughlin, Drumkeen, receives the cycling award at the 2019 Donegal Sports Star Awards. Picture by Geraldine Diver
“I’m aiming towards the Under-23 Giro this year. I can’t wait for Sunday’s race now, I’m really looking forward to it.”
Last year, riding as an A2, McLaughlin won the Cycleways Cup by three minutes before advancing to A1 level.
McLaughlin won a race in the Four Masters League and took victory in two time trials. In the Tour of the Mournes, McLaughlin was fifth, having been caught only 200 metres from the line.
Junior Irish cyclists Archie Ryan and Shay Donley have also been with Zappi.
