The 2023 Tour de Munster fundraising cycle has once again passed through South Tipperary where riders stopped in Clogheen at lunchtime today. The Tour de Munster is a 4-day, 600km cycle through the six counties of Munster. Over 100 cyclists take part each year, all tasked with raising much needed funds for Down Syndrome Ireland and other charities. As of last year almost €4.6 million has been raised for charities in the history of the Tour de Munster.
Despite the rain and fog, cyclists today made their way from Cork City and braved the poor weather conditions, coming up and over the Vee Mountain Pass, before heading down to Clogheen in the valley below.
Clogheen also welcomed world-renowned cyclist Seán Kelly, who cycled in the first stage of all editions from 2006-2008 and has cycled all stages since 2009. Seán is a wonderful ambassador for the Tour de Munster and a great support for the charities involved.
Photos from the Clogheen stop can be found on our Facebook page.
The Tour de Munster started in 2001. Paul Sheridan, organiser and brainchild, had a 10-year vision where 100 cyclists would raise €100,000 each year but also raise the public's awareness of the work that the beneficiaries do.
The 2023 Tour de Munster has four stages. Stage 1 today sees the riders travel 195km from Cork to Killaloe, through Lismore, the Vee, Clogheen, and Cahir, before continuing towards Limerick through Tipperary Town.
Stage 2 continues tomorrow where riders will traverse County Clare before heading towards North Kerry, finishing in Tralee, a total of 154km.
Saturday will see stage 3 taking place, where riders will cycle 151km through the Dingle Peninsula and on to Killarney and Kenmare. The final stage takes place on Sunday, a 133-km stretch taking riders through West Cork before returning to Cork City.
