OLYMPIC track pursuit qualifier Philip Collins is included in a six man team representing Ireland in the Tour of the Vendee Region in France on April 25th, 26th and 27th.

Collins has been based at Prestwick, near Manchester, preparing for his Olympic 4,000 metres event. He will also contest the Blarney three day race next weekend.

All the other members of the team are with French clubs national champion Micheal Fitzgerald, Mark Hutton, Peter Daly, Leslie McKay and Ciarin Power. Gerry Beggs is manager. Aidan Duff, winner of a race at Redon in Brittany on Sunday, is expected to be in the race, too, with his team Vendee U.