Kerry cyclist Gene Mangan, who made history by winning the 1955 Rás Tailteann at just 18, has passed away.
Mangan’s greatest moment came in the 1955 Rás when, after a teammate’s crash, he gave up his own bike to help, sacrificing his chance at victory. He later dominated the final stages, winning four consecutive stages and cementing his place in Irish cycling history.
Mangan, a native of Killorglin, won 12 Rás stages and became a key figure in Irish cycling. He will be remembered as one of the sport's true legends.
May he rest in peace.