Domestic riders get on their bikes

Cycling: The domestic programme finally gets under way this weekend with a number of events around the country. Tomorrow sees the running of a handicap event in Annaclone, Co Down, but most of the riders in the Republic will wait until Sunday before they pin on their racing numbers and recommence hostilities.

The tough Lacey Cup handicap will be the big attraction in the southwest, while the Mayo League event is the second of Sunday's contests. The Cycleways Cup in Navan always draws large fields and will serve as a pointer to form for many of Ireland's racing cyclists. This year the event assumes an additional importance as it marks the beginning of the new Cycling Ireland's women's league.

While the FBD Milk Rás is still over two months away, the likelihood that large numbers will seek to take part means entries will close shortly for the 2.5-ranked international stage race. Teams wishing to take part should lodge their entries with race organiser Dermot Dignam by March 7th, after which the official UCI enrolment forms will be circulated to those who have applied. Application forms and further information are available from Dignam by email at dignam@indigo.ie, or on 087-2459562.

In related news, defending champion Chris Newton and the 2001 winner, Paul Manning, will miss this year's event due to their preparation for the Olympics.

Irish road race champion Mark Scanlon yesterday continued his build-up to what he hopes will be a strong season. The Ag2r professional finished 82nd on the third and longest stage of the Tour of Valencia in Spain, crossing the line 51 seconds behind stage winner Alejandro Valverde. Thanks to the time bonus on offer, the Comunidad Valenciana-Kelme rider's second successive stage win saw him take over as race leader.

The 2.3-ranked event continues today with a 158 km stage to Alto Del Campello. Scanlon is 49th overall.

WEEKEND FIXTURES

Saturday: Handicap road race, Annaclone, Dromore, Co Down, 12.0. Sunday: Lacey Cup, Tralee, 12.0; Cycleways Cup, Navan, 12.30; Women's Classic League event, 12.45; Mayo League handicap, Srah, 11.0.