Ireland's Sam Bennett bows out of Tour de France

Ireland’s Sam Bennett was forced to abandon the Grand Tour on the 17th stage of the Tour de France.

The Carrick-on-Suir rider had an interrupted preparation for the gruelling event and conceded that it was never going to be easy as a result.

Speaking to the Irish Examiner today Bennett said: “It was never going to be an easy task, even if I was at full health.

“I think the lack of preparation really showed, it made the race even more difficult,” he explained. “It’s the biggest race of the year and you can’t hide anywhere, but I’m really happy I did it and I got so far.

“I pushed my body and raced more and more to see what I can get out of myself. I learned from the race and to see the standard I need to get is very important.

Bennett refused to let his tribulations at the event did his faith in his own abilities, and knows he gave it every effort.

“I also think if I was at 100%, that I would have raced a lot better.”

He admitted: “I felt like I didn’t get to show what I am about in this race which is disappointing - and then being last in GC wasn’t good for the ego either.

“But I went on until I was completely empty, until I literally had nothing left. It’s been all I could give.”

Sam Bennett. Wasn't 3rd in GC like TVG, but emotion is still the same. Tour de France doesn't forgive (pic @TDWsport) pic.twitter.com/tRQXzVOEmK

— Alexandre Mignot (@AlexandreMignot) July 23, 2015

Bennett who is a sprinter withdrew from the race after becoming detached from the main peloton yesterday while Chris Froome continues to lead.