Cycling News round-up: The top Irish riders move into the next phase of their build-up for next month's FBD Milk Rás when they line out today for the opening leg of the four-day, five-stage Credit Union Rás Mumhan in Kerry. A total of 144 contestants have been confirmed for the prestigious stage race, with many of Ireland's best riders squaring up against strong teams from Britain and the Netherlands.
A strong national selection comprising David McCann, David O'Loughlin, Rory Wyley, John O'Shea and Robin Seymour will lead the Irish charge, while others such as Paul Griffin, Eugene Moriarty and Timmy Barry will also have high ambitions.
Of the foreign riders, the Recycling.co.uk/MG XPOWER squad features the talented Downing brothers, Russell and Dean, along with Continent-based Kristian House. The 2003 stage winner Anthony Malarczyk (Dataphonics Racing Team) and former FBD Milk Rás winner Andrew Roche (Isle of Man) are also big dangers, along with the Dutch BRC Kennemerland team.
The race begins with a tough, 52-mile stage taking in the climb of Sliabh Mish. Tomorrow's 96-mile second stage sees the riders slug it out over the mountains of the Ring of Kerry and will be a very tough day in the saddle.
Easter Sunday features a 10km time trial from Beaufort to Killorglin, and then an afternoon criterium stage in Killarney.
The final shake-up will take place on Easter Monday over the traditional, 58-mile course, finishing in Killorglin.
Farther east, the Greenstar Gorey Three-Day race will feature a massive field, with 190 cyclists taking part in the highly respected event. The race begins tomorrow with a 60-mile stage from Brittas to Gorey. Day two brings the customary, four-mile time trial and then four laps of a 15-mile circuit, while the field will race 60 miles back to the finish in Brittas on Monday.
There will certainly be plenty of incentive to do well: a new sponsorship by Greenstar means the race will feature a very generous prize list.
Entries are due in on Monday for the world-ranked Shay Elliott Memorial in Wicklow, taking place this year on April 25th. Riders can contact Gillian Martin at 01 2864461 for more information.
FIXTURES
Today-Monday: Rás Mumhan, stages 1-5. Stage One starts Killorglin, 3 pm.
Saturday-Monday: Greenstar Gorey Three-Day, stages 1-4. Stage One starts Brittas, noon.
Sunday: IVCA 50-mile DMS, Summerhill, Co Meath, starts 10 a.m.
