Team Isle of Man-Microgaming’s senior road race team are putting in place their final preparations for the International An Post Ras Tour of Ireland starting 22 May in Dublin. The event, held over eight days and 750 miles, pits the Manx team against some of the best from the UK, Europe and the USA. The event is the biggest open international race in the UK and Ireland and as such provides both a physical and logistical test. The team comprises five riders a manager, mechanic and physiotherapist. Transporting not just the team but all the bikes created not only an interesting challenge but also an expensive one. The Isle of Man Motoring Club has stepped in to become the team’s event sponsor and without this assistance the squad’s participation would have been in doubt. Along with the generous donation from the Isle of Man Motoring Club, the team have received further financial assistance from Appleby and Thornton Associates and the team sends a big thank you to all those companies, as well as Microgaming - the national cycling team’s main sponsor. This will be the first time that the Isle of Man national team has competed in the Ras since 2008 - the year in which guest rider Ken Hanson won the opening stage and wore the leader’s yellow jersey for a day. While the riders are contributing the remaining funds, a social evening and fundraiser is being held at the Creg Ny Baa pub this Friday (13th May). All profits will be split between the An Post Ras team and the Island Games Cycling Teams. On the night there will be a raffle and an auction of housewive’s favourite, Team Microgaming’s very own Christian Varley. Admission is ?10 which includes a hot pot supper. All profits go to the Manx national teams. Please contact Graeme Hatcher on 450284 or ghatcher@manx.net, or Ras/Island Games Social on Facebook to reserve your place. - ENDS -