Streamstown cyclist to represent Ireland in Japan

A Streamstown cyclist is in Japan this week to represent Ireland in the UCI Gran Fondo World Championships.

Colin Clavin earned his place at the world championships as the reigning Irish Masters Time Trial Champion, having claimed the national title in 2025.

His journey will take him to Niseko, Hokkaido, from August 26-30. It is the first time the event has been staged in Asia.

The Westmeath man will compete in the 15km individual time trial this Thursday, August 27, and also the road race this Sunday, August 30, where riders from around the world will battle for the coveted rainbow jersey.

A plumber, who is married to Sarah, Colin is a father to three children. He is a son of the late Colm – founder of Streamstown Cycling Club – and the late Mary Clavin.

He heads to Japan in excellent form, having recently finished an impressive third overall at the Ulster 10-mile (16km) Time Trial Championship, recording an average speed of approximately 49.9km/h against some of the strongest time trial riders in the country.

Colin will be part of a strong Irish contingent including Paul Kennedy and John Madden. Kennedy, a former UCI Gran Fondo World Time Trial champion, will compete in the M45-49 category, while Madden returns to the World Championships after taking a superb bronze medal in the M60-64 time trial at the 2025 Championships in Australia.

“It is a fantastic achievement to once again have a Streamstown Cycling Club rider competing on the world stage,” said a spokesperson for the club this week, adding that everyone at Streamstown Cycling Club wished Colin, Paul and John the very best of luck in Japan.