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| Dermot Dignam Race Organiser |
This year’ FBD Insurance RÁS 8 Day International Cycle Race, which will take place from 18th to 25th May, will see a reduction in the number of UCI Continental (pro) Teams in the line-up. Although a similar number of countries to last year, at least 10, is expected to be represented the emphasis will be on national, regional and top level sponsored amateur teams.
Announcing the change Race Organiser, Dermot Dignam, said “the FBD Insurance RÁS has a world-wide reputation as a highly competitive and unpredictable race, this is due mostly to the unique mix of international and county riders. As it is important we maintain that status the concern would be that pro teams may gain too much of a controlling effect on the racing and reduce the potential winners to the leaders of the strongest pro teams. For 2008 there will be a greater spread of teams, including pro teams, so we are looking forward to a great race with the winner as likely to come from a county team as from a pro team”.
Dignam also disclosed that the route for the eight days of racing is almost finalised and will be announced shortly.
Further details contact: Dermot Dignam 01-8481517 or Sally Ryan 01- 6496416
or log-on to: www.fbdinsuranceras.com
