Championships 2005 bid by Ireland

ATHLETICS Ireland moved a step closer to lodging a bid for the European cross-country championships when a three-man delegation met with representatives of the EAA in Germany last week.

International secretary Liam Hennessy, Tom McCormack, who organised the course and facilities for the world championships in Leopardstown last year and treasurer Michael Quinlan met with the EAA for a briefing on what would be required for the actual application form.

Yesterday, Hennessy confirmed they will be pushing for the 2005 championships. The venues for the championships for 2005, 2006 and 2007 will be decided next October and applications have to be submitted before the end of February.