An innovative move by A and L Goodbody is paying dividends for two of Ireland's most promising athletes. The sports law unit of the company have decided to sponsor the outstanding lightweight rowing pair Neville Maxwell and Tony O'Connor. The rowers, now full time, hold bronze and silver World Championship medals, and between them have won 38 Irish national championships. They were also part of the four-man boat which came fourth in the 1996 Olympic Games in Atlanta.

The sports law unit, headed up by former Trinity rugby player Eoin O'Neill, brother of former international full back Hugo, have backed winners here. No one can promise Olympic medals, but the talent, experience and dedication of Maxwell and O'Connor would shame even professionals.