Power well suited to US circuit

CYCLING: Following an encouraging 2002 season racing on the US circuit, Irish professional Ciarán Power is almost certain to remain in America next season rather than opt for a return to the European peloton.

The Waterford cyclist moved to the US early this year after a contract with the French St Quentin team failed to materialise, lining out instead in the colours of the New Jersey-based Navigators squad. Power has found the experience a rewarding one, recording a string of good results while also providing vital horsepower for the successful team.

"It looks like Ciarán is going to stay in the US next season," confirmed his agent Frank Quinn yesterday. "The style of racing suits him and he has had a pretty good year over there.

"In terms of money, there would be little point in him moving back to Europe unless he could get a place on a division one team. But opportunities there are pretty poor at the moment, with the Domo and Lotto teams merging and Mapei stopping."

Quinn is currently working on securing the best possible deal for Power for 2003. The most likely outcome is that he will re-sign with Navigators, although advances from other teams will also be considered.

The winner of the 2002 Junior Tour of Ireland, Nicolas Roche, will this weekend lead a strong Irish team in its Welsh equivalent. Roche, national junior champion Páidí O'Brien, Theo Hardwick, Andrew McQuaid, Barry Woods and Mark Cassidy travel today for the three-day, five-stage race, which begins tomorrow with a tough hill-climb prologue.

"'Nicolas and the other lads are all in good shape and I am hoping that after this weekend we will have the first Irish winner in this event," said junior team manager Tom Keenan.

Sean Kelly was among the top riders in attendance at Cycling Ireland's Champions Evening last night, which was held to promote Hibernian National Bike Week. Starting on August 1st, the aim of the initiative is to boost the numbers of those cycling in Ireland, be they of competitive, leisure or commuting orientation. Information is available at 01- 8551523, 8551202 or on www.cyclingireland.ie.

WEEKEND FIXTURES: Saturday: Kathleen O'Sullivan Memorial, Boot Inn, 11.0; Sunday: Mayo Wheelers Sheefry Grand Prix, Carrowkennedy, Westport, 1.0; IVCA 50-mile TT Championship at Enfield, 9.0 am.