Once again this year the Irish Sports Council’s financial support for the FBD Insurance RÁS will be acknowledged with the presentation each day of the Irish Sports Council White Jersey to the leading young rider in the Best Young Rider Classification.
One of the most coveted awards for young riders in any major tour the white jersey of Best Young Rider singles the winner out as having the potential to go all the way in the tough sport of professional and world cycling.
Commenting on Irish Sports Council financial support for the race Chief Executive, John Treacy, said "I am pleased the Irish Sports Council is associated with the recognition of young talent in such a tough international event as the FBD Insurance RÁS." He also praised FBD Insurance for its continuing support for Irish sport.
Top British professional team, Plowman Craven, voted Britain’s favourite team in a recent poll in Cycling Weekly magazine, joins Team Stena Rapha-Condor/Recycling in spearheading a very strong British challenge in this year’s race. Just back from a very successful campaign in the United States Plowman Craven has the firepower to make its debut in the RÁS a winning one. The team will be led by Simon Richardson and includes Alex Higham, Tom Barras, Craig MacClean and Evan Oliphant.
The inclusion of MacClean on the team is a very interesting one, given that he is a former world and Commonwealth Games team sprint gold medallist. The long stages of the race will challenge his endurance but if he reaches the finish with the front group, few - if any - will be faster than him.
In addition to the two pro teams British regional teams, Surrey Racing League, Primera Sport and Kinesis will also line out as will an impressive Isle of Man squad.
The big international event runs from May 18th to 25th and features stage finishes in Ballinamore, Claremorris, Lisdoonvarna, Tralee, Skibbereen, Clonmel, Roundwood, with the finish in Skerries on Sunday 25th.
