The prospect of Ireland hosting the World Cycling Championships in 2004 remains in limbo with the news that Jim McDaid will make a decision later this year concerning government support for the event. Speaking in the Dail during the week, the Minister for Sport indicated that while he had reservations about backing the championships, results of an independent cost benefit analysis would be taken into consideration before a decision would be made.

The Minister said that despite the recent introduction of EPO testing, he remained to be convinced that cycling had succeeded in tackling the drugs problem. If drugs are involved, it would not benefit this country', he said. However, he said he would monitor the situation during the summer and make a decision later this year.

Pat McQuaid and Alan Rushdon, the men behind the bid, are requesting £2.7 million in state sponsorship for the event which would be held around Killarney in the autumn of 2004. According to the Fine Gael TD for Kerry North, Jimmy Deenihan, the benefit for the area would be £26 million. Minister McDaid said that Bord Failte expected the results of the cost benefit analysis to be completed in the next four weeks.

Meanwhile, on the amateur front, Mark Scanlon, David O'Loughlin, Nigel Forde, Michael Devins, Dave Nugent and Vincent Gleeson make up a strong Connacht team in the Essor Breton four-day race, which starts tomorrow in Brittany. Shane Prendergast, Thomas Hogan, Denis Lynch, Sean Lacey and Gary Cranson compose the Irish under-23 squad for the Tour of Ulster, also setting off tomorrow.

Bray Wheelers this week launched a book by the late founder, Joe Loughman. Entitled Trusty Steeds and Rain Like Stair Rods, the entertaining work is an essential read for all who have an interest in the Bray club or on the cycling in Ireland in the 1940s and 1950s. Contact Brendan O'Leary at 2868467 for details.