The 26th edition of the Tour de Munster charity cycle came to a triumphant close on Sunday, 9th August, as more than 100 cyclists conquered Cork City’s iconic Patrick’s Hill, greeted by an enthusiastic crowd of supporters and members of the Down Syndrome Ireland community.
Over four days, participants travelled 600 kilometres through all six counties of Munster, raising vital funds for the Munster branches of Down Syndrome Ireland (DSI). The annual charity cycle supports essential services and programmes for children and adults with Down syndrome and their families across the province.
The Tour began on Thursday, 6 August, departing from outside Cork’s historic English Market before making its way through Waterford, Tipperary, Limerick, Clare and Kerry, returning to Cork on Sunday for the traditional finish on St. Patrick’s Hill. Cycling legend and long-time Tour de Munster Ambassador Seán Kelly once again joined participants throughout the four-day journey, lending his support to cyclists taking on the physical challenge for an important cause.
EVERY EURO COUNTS
Since its inception in 2001, Tour de Munster has raised more than €5.5 million for its charitable beneficiaries, with Down Syndrome Ireland serving as the Tour’s primary beneficiary since 2010. Every euro raised helps fund vital services including speech and language therapy, occupational therapy, employment programmes and practical supports that empower children and adults with Down syndrome to lead more independent lives.
Along the route, cyclists were warmly welcomed by local communities, schools and Down Syndrome Ireland branches, with many stopping to meet families who benefit directly from the services funded by the Tour. These moving encounters served as a powerful reminder of the lasting impact of every kilometre cycled and every euro raised, while enthusiastic roadside supporters created a memorable atmosphere throughout the four-day event.
‘SPECIAL MOMENT’
Speaking at the finish line, founder and organiser of Tour de Munster, Paul Sheridan, said completing the event, once again, was ‘inspiring’.
“Every year, crossing the finish line is an incredibly special moment, but what makes Tour de Munster truly remarkable is the people behind it. Our cyclists dedicate months to training and fundraising, our volunteers work tirelessly behind the scenes, and communities across Munster come out in force to support us along the route.
“Seeing everyone come together over the past four days has been inspiring. We are enormously grateful to every participant, sponsor, volunteer and supporter who has helped make this year’s Tour another tremendous success. Together, we are making a real and lasting difference in the lives of children and adults with Down syndrome throughout Munster.”
Clare FM, Tipp FM, WLR FM, Red FM, SPIN South West and the Limerick Leader are the Official Media Partners of Tour de Munster 2026.
Donations to this year’s Tour de Munster remain open – to support the Tour, please visit: www.idonate.ie/event/TDM2026
