Irish sports council continue Rás backing

By Shane Stokes

The organisers of the FBD Insurance Rás announced on Wednesday that the Irish Sports Council (ISC) will once again back the best young rider's competition in the 2.5 ranked race. The funding will be given to the race via Cycling Ireland as part of the ISC's core grant allocation process, but is specifically earmarked to fund the white jersey in the Irish tour.

Commenting on the funding, Irish Sports Council Chief Executive, John Treacy, said that he is "pleased that the Irish Sports Council is associated with the recognition of young talent in such a tough international event as the FBD Insurance Rás." Treacy, a former double world cross-country running champion, also praised FBD Insurance for its continuing support for Irish sport.

This year's FBD Insurance Rás will begin in Dublin on May 21 and feature stage finishes in Enniscorthy, Cobh, An Daingean, Listowel, An Cheathru Rua, Westport and Clara. It will conclude with a road race into the town of Skerries on Sunday May 28. First details of the international teams to take part will be announced later this week.