Not everyone finds team sports like soccer or GAA appealing. For some, the need for something gnarlier, something that pushes the limits of your courage and energy, is vital. Enter the world of mountain biking—a thrilling, adrenaline-fueled sport exploding in popularity in recent years in Ireland.

This surge is due in no small part to the bravery and passion of riders like Greg Callahan, Dan Wolfe, Kelan Grant, and most recently, the phenomenal talents of Oisin O’Callaghan and Ronan Dunne. 

Ronan Dunne is a trailblazing 21-year-old professional mountain biker from Co. Wicklow who has rapidly gained recognition in the international mountain biking community. Known for his fearless riding style and remarkable agility.

10 years ago in Ireland it was almost unheard of to be a professional mountain biker. So many felt like you had to be born in the Alps or Whistler to have any chance of being an elite level rider. Ronan Dunne is a symbol of what’s possible if you find what you love and pursue it.

Who Does Ronan Dunne Ride For?

Ronan Dunne rides for Mondraker Factory Racing, a prestigious name in the mountain biking world. You know Mondraker is a brand made for speed and agility when you see Ronan Dunne flying down the track. And you can shop Mondraker at yours truly, call instore to see just how nice the build on these bikes are.

Less than a month ago, Ronan Dunne was awarded his Redbull helmet, a significant milestone in any extreme sports athlete’s career. This sponsorship is a testament to his outstanding performance and growing influence in the sport. Every Irish biker is stoked for Ronan and you can watch the moment he received his helmet here.

Ronan’s most recent notable achievement includes his latest Whoop UCI Mountain Bike World Cup win in Bielsko-Biala in Poland, where he showcased his exceptional talent and relentless drive. His victory not only cemented his status as a top competitor but also inspired countless aspiring riders.

And why should you care?

In early June, Redbull Hardline 2024 took place in the breathtaking mountains of Dinas Mawddwy, Machynlleth, Wales. For context, Redbull Hardline is the kind of race most riders are stoked to just make it down in one piece.

Ronan was looking strong all week and was the quickest in the qualifying round, a feat that highlights his exceptional speed and technical skills. His winning race run of 2:23:045, 1.282 seconds ahead of Bernard Kerr in 2nd, is a clear indicator of his readiness to challenge for a podium at every race he drops in to.  You can watch his running POV run here.

Ronan is now the double champ having won Redbull Hardline Tasmania in February and now Redbull Hardline Wales on Sunday June 2^nd. Over 1 million people have viewed the replay from Red Bull TV! Ronan is inspiring a whole new generation of riders. The speed and aggression he attacks straight out of the starting gate is ferocious. And somehow, he maintains that ferocity from top to bottom.

In the latest round he finished 6^th in Val de Soli and Oisin finished in 7th. With the next round of the Whoop UCI Mountain Bike World Cup at Haute-Savoie in the French Alps this weekend, no doubt Ronan and Oisin will both have their eyes on another podium finish. It’s safe to say Irish mountain biking is going strength to strength.

So where can I watch the UCI Mountain Bike World Cup 2024?

Live coverage of the downhill races at the UCI Mountain Bike World Series can be found on YouTube depending on the race.

You should care who Ronan Dunne is because mountain biking is a sport when you can start at any age, whether you’re 8 or 48.  It doesn’t matter if you’re riding a double black or a greenway. The goal is just to have fun, whatever that looks like for you.

So, maybe it's time to create your own mountain biking adventures. Whether you're a seasoned rider or just starting out, Feel Good Bicycles has everything you need to get you on your bike. Visit us today to explore our range of bikes, gear, and rental options.