More than 100 cyclists will take to the roads this week for the 26th Tour de Munster, a four-day charity cycle raising vital funds for the Munster branches of Down Syndrome Ireland.
The 2026 event gets underway on Thursday, August 6th, with cyclists set to complete a 600-kilometre route through all six counties of Munster before returning to Cork on Sunday, August 9th.
Cycling legend Seán Kelly will once again lead the way, joining participants as they travel through cities, towns and villages across the province in support of children, adults and families living with Down syndrome.
The tour will depart from Cork City on Thursday morning, beginning outside the English Market on Grand Parade, before making its way through Waterford, Tipperary, Limerick, Clare and Kerry.
The final stage will see cyclists return to Cork, with the traditional challenge of climbing St Patrick’s Hill awaiting participants before they cross the finish line.
Jeni and Joey Kiely, Carrigaline, pictured at the official start of the 25th annual Tour de Munster, marking the cycles silver anniversary in aid of Down Syndrome Ireland Munster branches. The four-day charity cycle takes place from August 7th10th, with cyclists covering 600 km across Munster to raise vital funds for DSI. To support the Tour de Munster and donate, please visit www.idonate.ie/event/TDM2025
Picture: Michael O’Sullivan / OSM PHOTO
Since the event began in 2001, Tour de Munster has raised more than €5.5 million for charitable causes, with Down Syndrome Ireland becoming the event’s primary beneficiary in 2010.
Funds raised help provide essential services across the province, including speech and language therapy, occupational therapy, employment programmes and practical supports for people with Down syndrome and their families.
Tour de Munster founder and organiser Paul Sheridan said preparations are now complete ahead of another major fundraising effort.
He said every cyclist taking part has shown huge commitment through months of training and fundraising, while encouraging communities across Munster to support the event along the route.
Claire Power, Chairperson of Down Syndrome Ireland Waterford and South Kilkenny Branch, said the event has become a wonderful tradition that brings communities together in support of people with Down syndrome.
She added that the funds raised make a significant difference, helping branches provide vital services including speech and language therapy and support that allows children and adults to grow in confidence and reach their potential.
Paul Sheridan, Founder, Tour de Munster, pictured crossing the finish line at the end of the 2025 Tour de Munster charity cycle on Patrick’s Hill, Cork City on Sunday, August 10th, as the event celebrated its silver anniversary, marking 25 years on the road. Cyclists completed the epic four-day, 600 km route across Munster, raising vital funds for the Munster branches of Down Syndrome Ireland. They were joined by cycling legend Seán Kelly. To support the Tour de Munster and donate, please visit www.idonate.ie/event/TDM2025
Picture: Michael O’Sullivan / OSM PHOTO
The Tour de Munster will pass through Waterford during the four-day cycle, with supporters encouraged to get involved by cheering on participants along the route or making a donation.
Tour de Munster 2026 is supported by official media partners WLR FM, Clare FM, Tipp FM, Red FM, SPIN South West and the Limerick Leader.
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