Darach McQuaid Project Director of the Tour of Ireland said that he had been talking to Lance and his colleagues at the Lance Armstrong Foundation, who run all of his Livestrong initiatives, regarding his possible participation in the 2009 Tour of Ireland.
"His comeback after three years of retirement is a big global sports story and we are delighted that he is seriously considering participating in the Tour of Ireland next summer. He said to me recently that he had fond memories of his first time racing here, in the Nissan Classic in 1992. That was during his first few months as a professional.
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"Lance has voiced his positive impression on the Irish Government's break through anti smoking initiatives. A big part of his comeback in 2009 will be bringing his Livestrong message of cancer awareness and cancer prevention around the globe following on from it's success in the United States where to date they have raised US$250 million to support their mission to inspire and empower people affected by cancer.
"The Tour of Ireland this year saw some of the world's best cyclists competing on Irish roads - including sprinting phenomenon, Mark Cavendish. Having 7-time Tour de France winner Lance compete will bring the event to a whole new level. Even before Lance's statement of interest, we have had major world teams show interest in coming. We could not be more pleased at this new development, said Darach brother of the President of the Union Cycliste Internationale. Pat McQuaid.
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