Recruitment drive part of new strategy

CYCLING: While it has been functioning as Cycling Ireland for some time, the Irish Cycling Federation was this week officially relaunched under the new title at a reception in Dublin.

Besides introducing a more user-friendly and modern name, the relaunch also reflects a number of changes in the federation.

The governing body is considerably different to that of one year ago, with a new president, CEO, development officer, a restructured board and various commissions all in place. Its aims have also become broader, with leisure and commuter cycling now also part of its focus.

In addition to the continued development of its Team Ireland initiative, enhancement of the competitive wing of the sport and a bigger recruitment drive to attract new members, Cycling Ireland outlined several other projects to which it will devote its energies. These include the pedal-for-points membership scheme, which will allow all CI members to avail of discounts from a number of goods and services.

Besides the benefits to existing members, CI hopes the scheme will also entice recreational cyclists to join the federation.

In September it will run a National Bike week, starting on the first day of the month and culminating with "Bike to Work Day" five days later. CI also plans to campaign for cycling rights and to encourage more people to use bicycles for commuting and leisure a activities.

Speaking at the reception, the Tanaíste Mary Harney spoke highly of the changes in the governing body. "The launch of Cycling Ireland is a benchmark for a new era in Irish sport. The imaginative strategies that have been put in place will inevitably allow the sport to prosper over the coming years both competitively and recreationally."

The strategy document will act as the blueprint for the future direction of the governing body, and according to CEO Eamon Duffy, it is of vital importance for the future of the sport in this country. "The implementation of our plan will make the resurgence in our sport progressive and sustainable," he promised.

The campaign to return Eurosport to TV screens is continuing with the online petition now featuring 1,300 signatures from angry sports fans. They are calling on NTL to reverse their decision to replace the channel with CNBC Europe. The petition, and other details, can be accessed via the new portal site, www.bringbackeurosport.com.

FIXTURES: Saturday: LCF pre-season training workshop for under-16, juniors, women,'C' riders, no fee. Meet Papal Cross, Phoenix Park, at 10.15 for short spin; DCU at 1.0 for workshop.