CYCLING: Aided by some much needed support after the loss of €75,000 worth of bikes and equipment two weeks ago, the Irish downhill mountain bike team has flown out to take part in the third round of cycling's World Cup in Mont Saint-Anne in Canada.
The team had been faced with extinction due to the theft of their bicycles from the team hotel in Alpe d'Huez, France, prior to the last world cup race, but are now making progress in their fight to get back on track.
Orange bicycles have stepped in and undertaken to supply the team with replacement machines at a considerably reduced price, while several thousand euro has been pledged by other donors.
However, while the recent news has been heartening the team still has much to do. It is estimated that they will need to raise €40,000 to cover the cost of the new bikes, and so are continuing to appeal for support. Team manager Peter Popham can be contacted at 086-2564224.
Cycling Ireland this week announced the team which will take part in the B world championships next month in Aigle, Switzerland. The six-man squad comprises US-based professional David O'Loughlin, David McCann, Tommy Evans, plus Eugene Moriarty, Denis Easton, Brian Kenneally and Eugene Moriarty.
On Sunday a triple FBD Milk Rás winner will be remembered at the Paddy Flanagan criterium in Kildare town. The 50-minute street race is one of the final clashes before next Sunday's national road race championships in Sligo.
Another high speed event on offer is next Wednesday's Stephen Roche Classic in Dundrum. The race starts at 7.30 p.m. with sign-on before that in Dundrum Shopping Centre.
The Irish track squad for the B world championships will be announced tomorrow at Cycling Ireland's media day in the Manchester Velodrome.
