Ireland

The Irish national team return to The Tour of Britain as part of Cycling Ireland’s continuing drive to raise the profile and performance of Irish cycling. With a strong history of road cycling and a number of young Irish riders currently doing well at the top levels of the sport, including Nicolas Roche and Dan Martin, the drive is on to find the next generation of riders and to give them the best possible preparation and experience for the major events.

Having competed in a number of events in Ireland, the UK and Europe, plus a trip to the Coupe des Nations U23 race in Canada, the challenge of The Tour of Britain will be one of the highlights of the year for the young squad that is likely to be led by Martyn Irvine.

Strong performer in the opening season races for Ireland was Philip Lavery, but with him now joining AN Post as a stagiare for the remainder of 2010, that could open the door to talents like U23 Road Race Champion Sam Bennett and U23 Time Trial Champion Aaron Buggle.

For more information please visit: www.cyclingireland.ie