The countdown begins. One month to go to the FBD Milk Ras, and national road manager Declan Byrne has unveiled what is one of the strongest Irish teams in years. The quintet is led by professional David McCann, who impressed greatly last year in taking a stage win, the points jersey and the mountains classification. This week McCann placed 28th in the 1.3 ranked Rund Um Koln and is clearly in good form.

So too Tommy Evans and Aidan Duff, France-based riders who have been in the results since the season began and, in the past few days, scooped the intermediate sprints prize in the Tour of Ardennes and a podium finish in the GP Du Mont Pujols event respectively.

Morgan Fox is still a way off his best after a lay-off for much of last season, but if he can find form in the next month, the former professional has the ability to achieve much.

Making his debut in the race will be 1998 world junior champion Mark Scanlon. The Sligoman may be just 20 years of age, but he will go into the Ras with high expectations and will undoubtedly leave his mark on the race. Finally, international racing will also be one of the subjects to be discussed at the women's cycling workshop tomorrow. Starting with a short bike spin at 10.30 from the Dunboyne Community centre, the session will include talks on coaching, nutrition, bike position and maintenance. Open to all ages and standards, further information is available from national women's squad manager Pauline McKay at 837 9358 or 087 265 1718.