‘Making a tangible difference’
Tour de Munster 2026 Sets Off on 600km Charity Cycle for Down Syndrome Ireland
Over 100 cyclists will travel through all six counties of Munster from August 6-9, raising vital funds for Down Syndrome Ireland's Munster branches. More than 100 cyclists will take to the roads of Munster this Thursday, August 6, as the 26th Tour de Munster gets underway. The four-day charity cycle will raise vital funds for the Munster branches of Down Syndrome Ireland, supporting essential services for children, adults and families across the province.
Cycling legend Seán Kelly will once again lead the way alongside participants in this year’s Tour, travelling 600km through cities, towns, and villages across the province. Together, they will raise vital funds and awareness for the Munster branches of Down Syndrome Ireland, helping to ensure the continued delivery of essential services and support for children and adults with Down syndrome and their families. While the four-day journey presents a significant physical challenge, the cyclists are united by a shared commitment to making a meaningful difference in communities throughout Munster.
The 2026 Tour will depart from Cork City on Thursday morning, setting off from outside the English Market on Grand Parade before travelling through Waterford, Tipperary, Limerick, Clare and Kerry, and returning to Cork on Sunday, August 9. As has become tradition, cyclists will finish the Tour by taking on the challenging climb of St. Patrick's Hill, where supporters are encouraged to gather and cheer participants across the finish line.
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 event's primary beneficiary since 2010. Funds raised support essential services including speech and language therapy, occupational therapy, employment programmes and practical supports that help children and adults with Down syndrome lead more independent lives.
Founder and organiser of Tour de Munster, Paul Sheridan, said: "The countdown is nearly over and we're looking forward to another fantastic Tour de Munster. Every cyclist taking part has put in months of really hard effort across training and fundraising to get to the start line, and we're incredibly proud of the commitment they've shown.
“We hope people across Munster will come out to support the Tour over the four days, whether that's cheering the cyclists along the route or making a donation. That support makes all the difference and helps us continue raising vital funds for the Munster branches of Down Syndrome Ireland."
Linda Gillick, Chairperson of Down Syndrome Ireland, Tipperary Branch, added: “Tour de Munster is always a highlight of the year for our branch, and we're looking forward to seeing the cyclists take to the roads once again this August. It is inspiring to see so many people come together with a shared goal of supporting individuals with Down syndrome and their families across Munster. The commitment shown by the cyclists, volunteers, sponsors and supporters makes a genuine difference, helping branches like ours continue to provide essential services, including speech and language therapy, that empower our members every day. We are incredibly thankful for the continued support and wish everyone involved a fantastic and successful tour.”
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