Nicolas Roche may have hung up his racing wheels for good in recent weeks but the double Vuelta stage winner still has plenty of pulling power.
He is expecting a big crowd in Cork this weekend for the official launch of his new Roca Sports shop at Fota Retail Park, Carrigtwohill, where Irish cyclists are set to ride with some real star names.
Roche will lead a ride from the shop on Saturday, while Sean Kelly and Ineos Grenadiers rider Eddie Dunbar are both also confirmed for the event.
Not to be outdone by the three Irish stars, Italy is sending one of its biggest names of recent decades in the shape of Paolo Bettini.
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The retired former pro, now aged 47 years, won the Worlds twice as well as taking two victories in both Il Lombardia and Liège-Bastogne-Liège, as well as Olympic road race gold.
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Bettini will be on his bike with the Irish in Cork on Saturday meaning Irish amateur and leisure cyclists will get the chance to ride with genuine legends.
The good news is that all are welcome and the event is free. It kicks off at 1.30pm when the cycle with the star names rolls out from the east Cork shop.
Once the group ride is complete there will be a meet and greet with the four stars back in the shop from 4.30pm before a questions and answers session from 5pm. There will also been pizzas and drinks for all of those present.
You can register by emailing [email protected].
