Rás na mBan set for the Banner

THE organisers of An Post Rás na mBan, Ireland’s premier stage cycle race for women, have confirmed the event will move to County Clare next season.
After five years in Kerry, the race will be based in Ennis in 2013 from where it will take in six stages in five days. As in past years, the race will have a central location with stages in various parts of the picturesque Munster county.
The event will take place from September 11 to 15 next year. “We’re grateful for the assistance of Clare County Council and Clare Sports Partnership in making a new base in Clare for what will be an exciting new chapter for the event,” said race organiser Valerie Considine.
It’s time to seek out new roads for the race. This event is about exploring the geography of Ireland as well as examining the ability of the riders and I know that Clare will provide a wonderful backdrop to another epic encounter.”
The organisers also confirmed continuing sponsorship from An Post. The national postal carrier has backed the race for three years and will continue to support Irish cycling at all levels in 2013.
The event also enjoys renewed and extended backing from Cycling Ireland, thus ensuring the continuation of an event that will mark 27 years of international women’s stage racing in Ireland.
“We are delighted with the steadfast support which An Post has given the race and the extended support from Cycling Ireland which, along with help from Clare County Council and Clare Sports Partnership, has allowed us to confirm the important details of the event in plenty of time for riders to include us in their season plans for 2013,” says Ms Considine.
Details of further commercial partnerships and route announcements will follow in the new year.