Event: Men’s road race
Who is he? A leading Irish professional road racing cyclist who has previously won stages at the Vuelta a España and Tour de France. The 29-year-old also secured an impressive top-10 finish in the latter event last month, heightening expectations ahead of Rio 2016.
Where’s he from? Martin was born and raised in Birmingham, but has represented Ireland since 2006. He qualifies through his mother Maria, who is the sister of Stephen Roche.
Olympic CV: Martin competed in the men’s individual road race in the London 2012 Olympics, ultimately finishing 90th — one place behind his cousin Nicolas Roche.
Road to Rio: Sam Bennett actually qualified Ireland for Rio, though the Olympic Council of Ireland and Cycling Ireland ultimately chose Martin along with Nicolas Roche as the team’s two representatives in the men’s road race. The UCI ProTeam Etixx–Quick-Step cyclist’s form has been encouraging recently, with Martin finishing ninth overall in the Tour de France.
When does he start? Martin will be in action on Saturday 6 August.
Where can I follow him? You can follow him on Twitter (@DanMartin86), on Instagram (danmartin86) and on Facebook.
What he says: “I’m definitely starting as one of the favourites and I’ll be marked in that way.” (The42, 1 August)
Medal chances? Martin is fifth favourite at 14/1 in his event according to the bookmakers, so he certainly has a chance — four out of five Jerries.
And here’s something you probably didn’t know… Martin is engaged to Jess Andrews, who will represent Britain in the Women’s 10,000m at the Rio Olympics.
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