Team Ireland project to relocate to Belgium

CYCLING: When he became president of the Irish Cycling Federation just over one year ago, one of PJ Nolan's most promising new ideas was the establishment of the Team Ireland initiative, whereby a number of Ireland's most talented cyclists would be supported abroad.

The move would enable the riders to find positions with good French clubs while receiving financial support from the federation; the aim was that the Team Ireland squad would be exposed to regular, international competition and thus develop as elite cyclists.

The first year reaped some successes, but was regarded as somewhat of a disappointment. Bad health and injury sidelined Stephen O'Sullivan and Morgan Fox during the season, while Michael McNena and Brian Kenneally returned home long before the year was out. Instead, the bulk of the squad's results were achieved by Tommy Evans and Mark Scanlon, the latter joining after he left the Nantes 44 team.

Despite the lower-than-expected haul of world ranking points, the initiative was regarded as a positive move for Irish cycling. It was a good idea, a big step forward from the former haphazard approach, but one which was hampered by bad luck and teething problems.

This year, the Team Ireland project will undergo a number of changes as Nolan and the rest of the ICF board seek to get the formula right.

The biggest change is a relocation to Belgium. According to Ciarán McKenna of the ICF, this move will cut costs and enable greater accessibility to events around Europe. And, with cheaper flights, more riders should get to race abroad during the year.

The second development is a change of focus for the initiative, with greater emphasis to be placed on a long-term approach.

This year young, developing cyclists will be favoured over older competitors. There will also be support for mountain-bike riders who wish to compete abroad.

Riders have yet to be selected for the Team Ireland squad, and this and other issues will be discussed during next week's three- day coaching seminar at the Dromintine Conference Centre in Newry. All who are interested are encouraged to attend. Seán Kelly, and Irish professionals, Power and David McCann, will give talks during the seminar, which runs from January 11th-13th. There will also be training spins on Saturday and Sunday morning.

For more information, contact Padraig Marrey at 087-7992857 or the Irish Cycling Federation at 01-8551522.

Finally, preparations are under way to reintroduce third category racing after an absence of several years. The move is seen as a way of boosting participation in events, with beginners, leisure riders and former racing cyclists likely to make up the numbers. It is envisaged this group will compete alongside junior competitors.

With just two senior categories in place, there was little on offer for anyone who wasn't at a high level of fitness. It is hoped the reintroduction of this group will bring about an upsurge in participants. The sporting committee of the ICF will meet shortly to finalise details, with the first third category races due to be held in March.