Cycling Ireland and the High Performance Director part ways

Cycling Ireland and the High Performance Director, Dr Phil Leigh have today agreed to part ways. Dr Leigh and Cycling Ireland agreed that the timing was right as he had advanced the High Performance Programme as far as possible in the current conditions. There will now be a refocused effort on development.

Phil joined Cycling Ireland in April 2009 and during his time he has contributed greatly to the establishment of a High Performance Structure that delivered some key results. The full integration of Paracycling activities has provided a solid platform for this group to deliver consistently excellent results over the past number of years. These results include four world championship titles and several other medal winning performances at world track championships, world cup and road events. There has also been a considerable advancement of the High Performance Track teams. Both team pursuit squads setting significantly improved National Records and more recently Ireland secured a first U23 European Track medal.

Phil has built up key relationships with various service providers and commercial supporters that will benefit Cycling Ireland in the years ahead. New internal systems are now in place to ensure that clear pathways exist for the future development of Irish riders. Phil has overseen a sound logistical support over the past couple of years ensuring riders, coaches and volunteer staff can focus on achieving their performance targets. He has also been in the process of setting up a development pathway from youth upwards to enable talented riders achieve their potential.

Speaking of his resignation CEO Geoff Liffey said he and The Board of Cycling Ireland were very grateful for the contributions made by Phil during his time here and wish him well for the future.