With Pat McQuaid's term as president of the ICF expiring at the annual general meeting on November 20th in Malahide, possible replacements have been canvassing for support. Mick Lawless and Paddy O'Callaghan were regarded as front-runners, but Dermot Dignam has said he has received several requests from people to put his name forward. Dignam was beaten in the ballot by McQuaid four years ago and last November he resigned from the ICF Board, but said there was still interest in his talents: "In my travels around the country in the last few weeks, working on plans for the Ras next year, I had many requests to go again for president and I have received letters from people in each of the four provinces confirming this."

However, Dignam is still not happy with the present set-up and said he is unlikely to accept a nomination because of this. "The administrative structure is not working properly and there is an urgent need for changes. The provincial councils are operating satisfactorily, but a dynamic new executive is required to look after all aspects of cycling, not just the active racing element, but underage and recreation too."

as on the international calendar, Dignam added that this was mainly to make have the event as a qualifier for the Olympic Games and World Championships.

Ras Connachta will be held at Cong this weekend. This clashes with the Maze Grand Prix and the Mid-Ulster Grand Prix but should still attract a strong line-up. Stage one tomorrow morning (11.15) is over three laps of 19 miles with a seven mile time trial at 5.30. Sunday's third stage (10.30) is over two 38-mile circuits with three climbs on each lap. Mark Scanlon preferred to go training last weekend instead of contesting the Under-23 championship, which was won by David McQuaid, but Scanlon said he will be taking part in the Connacht race.

The Dun Laoghaire two-day race, listed for September 18th and 19th, has been called off because the Leinster Federation could not get enough helpers for the promotion.