Erin Stevens
For the first time in its 17-year history, Rás na mBan, has introduced a Waterford stage to its five-day schedule.
Ireland’s only women’s international bike stage race has included a 102.7km stage of the race which will leave Tramore at 12 noon tomorrow, Saturday, September 9th. The cycle will begin in Tramore then travel through Kilmeaden and Kilmacthomas, on to Dungarvan, before returning along the Copper Coast to the finish line on the Prom in Tramore at approximately 2.40pm. The 17th annual race began on Wednesday September 6th with six stages of the race taking place over five days and will finish on Sunday September 10th .
Mayor of Waterford City and County, Cllr. Joe Conway welcomed Rás na mBan to Waterford saying, “We are delighted that Waterford will feature as a stage for this prestigious international bike race. It’s a wonderful opportunity for us to showcase the idyllic, challenging and breath-taking scenery not only to the riders, but to spectators of the world. We are looking forward to welcoming the riders and supporters to Waterford for what is regarded as the premier international women’s stage race.”
Race Director, Valerie Considine said, “It’s our great pleasure and privilege to bring Rás na mBan to Waterford for the first time. It’s a county with an unrivalled heritage in Irish cycle racing and the route we have selected is among the most beautiful and challenging in the history of the race.
“We’re very grateful to everyone in Waterford City and County Council for their help in making this stage possible and we’re sure that our riders and supporters will enjoy a great day of racing on the Copper Coast. We look forward to seeing fans from all over Waterford and beyond out to support these world class athletes on the race route and at the finish in Tramore.”
