Mark Scanlon and David O'Loughlin, two of Ireland's best hopes for the FBD Milk Ras later this month, have finished the prestigious Essor Breton in style. O'Loughlin finished a strong second on the 155 kilometre final stage and was third overall in the mountains competition, while Scanlon ended the French race an impressive 10th in the general classification. He also won the competition for the best young rider.

For the second day running, professional riders Ciaran Power and David McCann finished with the main field in the Four Days of Dunkirk and the Tour of Slovenia respectively. Both have expressed satisfaction with their improving form.

Following last week's announcement of the strongest foreign line-up for the Ras, it has been confirmed that Tour of Italy stage winner David McKenzie will spearhead the professional Swiss team GS Ficonseils in the eight-day event.

The 27-year-old former Linda McCartney rider highlighted his class when he won the seventh stage in last year's Italian Tour. The Australian also won the final stage of the Tour Down Under in January. Another serious Ras contender confirmed is Olympic bronze medallist Chris Newton, who will lead a strong British selection.