As part of the agreement, Cycling Ireland will receive Skoda’s Octavia Combi (estate ) vehicles that will support the organisation on the 2010/2011 cycling circuit.
According to Dr Phil Leigh, director of high performance with Cycling Ireland: “Skoda was a natural choice for Cycling Ireland. Skoda vehicles are renowned in cycling circles for their quality, durability, and most importantly their reliability on big race days. They have been proven time and time again in the world’s largest events such as the Tour de France and the Giro de Italia. Couple this with their exceptional carrying and storage capacity for bikes and components made our final decision very easy.”
2010 has been a record breaking year for Skoda, achieving seventh position in the sales rankings and securing a 5.6 per cent share of the Irish car market year to date. The best selling Skoda Octavia has proved hugely popular amongst Irish motorists with over 2,000 units sold this year; outselling heavyweights such as Mondeo, Astra, and Corolla. All Skoda vehicles pack generous luggage space and bike transporting solutions and accessories, which are attractive to cyclists, outdoor enthusiasts, and families alike.
Commenting on the sponsorship announcement, Raymond Leddy, Skoda marketing manager said, “We are hugely impressed with the level of work by Cycling Ireland that has provided the sport with over a very short period of time. From its development of cycling amongst the junior ranks to its management of their high performance squad, Ireland continues to produce more and more top cyclists.”
Building on the brand’s association with cycling across Europe, Skoda Auto is the official partner of the famous Tour de France and also a member of the prestigious Club Tour de France. Skoda has signed a contract with Tour de France until 2013.
