The route for this year’s FBD Insurance RÁS, due to be announced on Friday (2nd February) looks certain to include what is reckoned to be the steepest mountain climb in the country. The dramatic Mamore Gap on the Inishowen Peninsula is expected to feature in one of two stages to take place in the rugged countryside of Donegal.
It is also generally believed that at least two cross-border towns are to be included as stage finishes in a route which focuses very much on the northern end of the country. In 1996 Briton Jeff Wright won into Newry, the last time a town north of the border featured in the race. Perhaps as a pointer to the outcome of this year’s race Banbridge-man Tommy Evans was the overall victor in ’96.
Details of the route are eagerly awaited by all of the top Irish cyclists. The number and severity of KOM climbs, and stage distances may well result in many of them adjusting training schedules to be in top condition for the start of the gruelling 8 days international cycle race on Sunday 20th May.
For further details contact:
Dermot Dignam 01-8481517 or Sally Ryan 01- 6496416
or log-on to: www.fbdinsuranceras.com
