Down Syndrome Limerick grateful for Tour de Munster 2024 €400k fundraiser

Tour de Munster 2024 raises an incredible €400k in aid of Down Syndrome Ireland. Champion cyclist Sean Kelly, Yolanda Baig, Ruth Hayes and Sarah Casey from DSI Limerick Branch, and founder Paul Sheridan. Pic Diane Cusack

The 2024 Tour de Munster charity cycle has successfully raised over €400,000 in support of Down Syndrome Ireland

The grand total was revealed at a cheque presentation ceremony Saturday, November 9th with cycling legend and long term supporter of the Tour, Sean Kelly, presenting the cheque.

The 2024 Tour marks a significant occasion as the renowned charity cycle contributes to the national charity for its 15th consecutive year. Since its inception in 2001, the Tour de Munster has raised a staggering €5 million for the Munster branches of DSI.

The 2024 charity cycle saw cyclists embark on a challenging 600 km journey through the picturesque counties of Munster, which took place from August 8th to August 11th, in efforts to raise vital funds for the Munster branches of Down Syndrome Ireland (DSI).

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The funds raised throughout Tour de Munster 2024 will have a profound impact on the lives of individuals with Down syndrome in Munster, providing vital services and facilities that benefit both them and their families across the region.In total, the tour raised over €413,728 with some cyclists raising funds for other charities near and dear to their hearts, including West Cork Down Syndrome Support Group and Cork ARC Cancer Support House.Each cyclist, supported by their family, friends, and dedicated volunteers, covered their own expenses to ensure that every euro raised directly benefited DSI and the various individual beneficiaries.

Speaking during the cheque presentation, Paul Sheridan, the founder of Tour de Munster, said, “I am so proud of everyone involved in this year’s Tour de Munster. We are over the moon to have raised such a phenomenal sum of €400,000 which will go a very long way in supporting the fantastic work carried out on a daily basis by the Munster branches of Down Syndrome Ireland.

“None of this would have been possible without the huge dedication and efforts made by cyclists, volunteers and supporters. We are very grateful to the many companies and the public who have supported the Tour in the past 24 years.”

Sean Kelly, a longtime supporter of Tour de Munster, said, “It’s amazing to see how much the Tour de Munster has grown over the years, both in scale and impact. This year’s incredible total of €400,000 for Down Syndrome Ireland speaks volumes about the dedication and heart of everyone involved.

“I’m honoured to keep supporting this event, knowing the real difference it makes in communities across Munster. Every pedal stroke has been worth it to see the positive change for families and individuals with Down syndrome.”

Following this year’s Tour, Michelle Coughlan, Chairperson of Down Syndrome Limerick, said, “I’d like to give a huge thank you to all involved for their incredible hard work and dedication over the past year. The tremendous fundraising efforts and awareness campaign improves the lives of so many children and adults with Down syndrome, and it’s what makes Tour de Munster so special year after year.

“Tour de Munster really is an amazing experience and so many friendships have been formed between the communities, the families, cyclists and volunteers. We really can’t express our thanks and gratitude enough.”

The continued success of the Tour de Munster is a testament to the dedication and spirit of its participants and supporters. Together, they are making a tangible difference in the lives of those with Down syndrome, fostering a more inclusive and supportive community.