Boost for Irish women cyclists

By Shane Stokes

Cycling Ireland’s women’s commission announced this week that the coaching company WinningSolutions.ie will combine with the Global Racing Team in Belgium to offer important opportunities for Ireland’s female cyclists.

The sponsorship agreement has come about following talks between the team and former Irish international Scott McDonald of WinningSolutions. The deal means that the Global Racing Team, formerly Team FBUK, will take on an Irish rider of their choice to compete as a professional for the duration of the 2007 season.

In addition, it will work with Cycling Ireland’s Women's Commission in order to look after as many guest riders as possible throughout the year. This will have a clear role in helping to develop riders at the top international level. "We believe it is a fantastic development, and a first for Women's Cycling in Ireland," said Valerie Considine, Chair of the Women's Commission.

McDonald is happy to be involved. "After a few months of discussions and negotiations, I'm thrilled to announce a sponsorship deal with Global Racing Team in Belgium," he stated. It is hoped that the deal will continue beyond 2007, helping to further the growth in standard of Irish women’s racing.