Tour de Munster Cyclists Begin 600km Charity Journey from Cork Today

Over 100 amateur cyclists set off from Cork's English Market this morning for the 25th annual Tour de Munster, beginning a gruelling 600-kilometre journey across all six Munster counties to raise vital funds for Down Syndrome Ireland.

The four-day charity cycle, which runs until Sunday 10th August, marks a significant milestone as it celebrates its silver anniversary. Since launching in 2001, the Tour has raised more than €5 million for the Munster branches of Down Syndrome Ireland, directly supporting children and adults with Down syndrome throughout the province.

Cycling legend Seán Kelly has once again joined the peloton for this year's expedition, lending his support to what has become one of Munster's most significant charity sporting events. The Tour will see participants pedal through cities, towns and villages across the province before returning to Cork on Sunday, where they'll face the notorious climb up St Patrick's Hill for the grand finale.

The challenging route demands months of preparation from participants, who balance intensive training with fundraising efforts to support Down Syndrome Ireland's essential services across Munster.

Paul Sheridan, who established Tour de Munster, said:

"Reaching 25 years is a huge milestone, and it's a testament to the dedication and heart that surrounds this event. Taking on the Tour de Munster requires real commitment, with months of training, fundraising, and preparing for four challenging days on the road. But what keeps the wheels turning is the incredible spirit behind it all. The support from the public means everything; it lifts our cyclists mile after mile."

Sheridan emphasised that every cent raised goes directly to the Munster branches of Down Syndrome Ireland, making a genuine impact where it's needed most. He urged the people of Munster to rally behind the cyclists by cheering them on and donating if possible.

Tara Casserly, Chairperson of Down Syndrome Cork, Field of Dreams branch, said:

"We're honoured to be part of Tour de Munster's 25th anniversary celebrations. Each year, this event brings such positive energy to our community, and seeing the cyclists make that final climb up Patrick's Hill is always a moving moment."

Casserly highlighted the enormous impact the Tour has on their members' lives and encouraged Cork residents to gather at Patrick's Hill on Sunday 10th August to cheer the cyclists home.

The Tour's success over the past quarter-century has created a lasting legacy for families affected by Down syndrome across Munster. The funds raised provide crucial support services, educational programmes and social activities that enhance quality of life for individuals with Down syndrome and their families.

Local residents along the route are expected to line the streets over the coming days, continuing the tradition of community support that has characterised the Tour since its inception. The sight of weary but determined cyclists pushing through the challenging terrain has become a familiar and inspiring August fixture across the province.

For those wishing to support the cause, donations can be made through the Tour's official fundraising page at www.idonate.ie/event/TDM2025. Route information and updates are available at www.tourdemunster.com and on the Tour's Facebook page.

The Tour de Munster is supported by official media partners Clare FM, Tipp FM, WLR FM, Red FM and SPIN South West, ensuring comprehensive coverage throughout the four-day journey.

As the cyclists make their way through Munster over the next four days, they carry with them not just the hopes of raising significant funds, but also the responsibility of continuing a tradition that has touched thousands of lives across the province. Sunday's climb up Patrick's Hill promises to be particularly poignant as the Tour celebrates this remarkable 25-year milestone.