The Clare Champion Clare news, sport, entertainment and local notes
AS this year’s Tour de Munster charity cycle quickly approaches, cyclists will be entering the final stages of their training regimes to make sure they are flying fit to tackle the testing 600km route across the six counties of Munster on their quest to raise vital funds for Down Syndrome Ireland’s Munster branches.
The tour will launch from The English Market on Grand Parade in Cork City on Thursday, August 4, and those participating will return to Cork on Sunday, August 7, where the finishing line will see them tackle the heights of St Patrick’s Hill.
On their first day in the saddle, the cyclists will travel through Barry’s Cross at 6.35pm before arriving at the Lakeside Hotel in Killaloe at 7.15pm.
Setting off on the Friday morning from Killaloe at 9am, they are due to pass through Tuamgraney at 9.45am before arriving in Ennis’ West County Hotel where they will stop for a break from 11am to 12 noon.
The cyclists will then travel to Kildysart, arriving at 1pm before heading to Killimer for the ferry to continue their journey to Tarbert at 2pm.
This year’s charity cycle will be the 22nd in the event’s history. Over the previous 21 years, Tour de Munster has raised a staggering €3.9 million for its beneficiaries, with over €3.5 million for DSI alone since it became the main beneficiary of the tour in 2010. The funds raised support the provision of vital services to members across Down Syndrome Ireland’s six Munster branches.
International cycling legend and Tour de Munster stalwart, Sean Kelly, will once again get back in the saddle to take part in the charity cycle. He will be joined alongside amateur cyclists from all over Munster to tackle the epic 600km journey that will take those participating through the scenic cities, towns and villages of Munster.
Paul Sheridan, Founder of Tour de Munster, has praised the hard work and sacrifice put in by participants ahead of this year’s Tour launch. “Tour de Munster is not an easy ride for those who take part, it is a real test of fortitude and willpower.
“In order to stay the course, participants have been putting in a huge amount of hard work both physically and mentally to meet the demands of the Tour across its four-day duration.
“And while this level of commitment is required, our motivation does not wear thin. We are driven by passion and purpose to support the wonderful children and adults of Down Syndrome Ireland’s Munster branches.
“Every cent raised makes a difference to their lives. We hope as many people as possible can come out to support us during the Tour, giving us that extra little push along the way.”
Speaking ahead of this year’s tour, Kieran Dooley of Down Syndrome Clare said, “We look forward to welcoming the Tour de Munster to Clare in the coming weeks. We will be cheering on all of those participating in this year’s Tour, as they seek to raise much needed funds for the Munster branches of Down Syndrome Ireland.
“These funds enable us to support our Clare branch members with vital services. We wish a safe and enjoyable experience for all those involved in this year’s Tour.”
To donate to this year’s Tour de Munster, visit www.idonate.ie/tdm22
For route information and the latest information and news log onto www.tourdemunster.com or find it on Facebook.
For further information on Down Syndrome Ireland please see www.downsyndrome.ie.
