The most consistent Irish cyclist of the past decade, Robin Seymour, builds towards his goal of performing well in the Olympics when he disputes the world mountain-bike cross country championships in Sierra Nevada, Spain, this weekend.
Ireland's two best hopes, Seymour and fellow Helly Hansen team rider Tarja Owens are in the Irish team to contest the elite men and women's competitions on Sunday.
Meanwhile, as the countdown to Sydney continues the battle to participate in the men's road race begins to heat up. Ciaran Power looks set to secure one of the two available berths with his efforts in the Tour of Italy; the 24-year-old completed his first major tour last Sunday, becoming the first Irish rider to finish a Grand Tour since 1993.
The national championships on June 25th will undoubtedly influence the Olympic selection of national team director Richie Beatty, but tomorrow's 16 km (10-mile) time trial championship may also have some bearing. Missing is last year's winner Philip Cassidy, who is in Malaysia with the Blazing Saddles squad, but others such as Tommy Evans, Brian Kenneally and Paddy Moriarty will all be trying to impress.
The Wicklow 200 is one of the most renowned on the Irish calendar, and this year will be held on Sunday June 18th, on a more difficult course than usual. The route starts from the National Basketball Arena in Tallaght, climbs via Glenasmole to the Featherbeds and then over Sally Gap and the Wicklow Gap, to Donard and Rathdrum before hitting the Glenmacnass Waterfall climb and finishing back in Tallaght.
A shorter Wicklow challenge is on offer. Contact Dick O'Brien (01-4558216) or Bob Naylor (018361087) for information.
