It was confirmed yesterday that the FBD Milk Ras will be at its usual time next year, from May 16th to 24th. It will be the 16th year of sponsorship by the National Dairy Council and FBD Insurance.

The organiser, Dermot Dignam, has issued invitations to several countries to take part and he expects to have at least six represented in the line-up.

The route is to be announced early in the new year and the 46th annual promotion will provide a good build-up to the Tour de France start in July.