TANDEM TEAM TAKE ON WORLD

A TANDEM duo from Tipperary and Cork who have won the Irish Tandem Cycling National Championships are on top of the world.

Denis Toomey, from Cork, and Billy Shanahan from Thurles, Co Tipperary, have qualified to represent Ireland at the world Paralympics in cycling in Altensteadt, Munich, on August 9-12.

The pair, who have been cycling together for three years, beat 15 teams to take the Irish tandem title and the trophy.

They took part in the Blazing Saddles tour of California last year and are planning a tandem bike hike in South Africa in October.

"The event in Germany will include a 21-miles time trial and a 70- miles road race over two days," said Denis Toomey.

Up to 35 countries are expected to compete in the world championships.

The lightweight aluminium tandem they will use in Germany cost EUR5,100.

Copyright 2002 MGN LTD
Provided by ProQuest Information and Learning Company. All rights Reserved.