2024 Tour De Munster support for Down Syndrome Limerick is “transformative”

Founder and organiser Paul Sheridan pictured at the end of the 2024 Tour de Munster Charity Cycle on Patricks Hill, Cork City on Sunday, August 11th. Pic: Diane Cusack

The 2024 Tour De Munster covered more than 600 kilometres across the six counties of Munster, helping to raise funds for Down Syndrome Ireland’s Munster branches

The 24th Tour de Munster charity cycle came to a thrilling end on Sunday, August 11th, as cyclists tackled Cork City’s iconic St. Patrick’s Hill, spurred on by supporters lining the route.

The Tour covered more than 600 kilometres across the six counties of Munster all in an effort to raise vital funds for the Munster branches of Down Syndrome Ireland (DSI) including Limerick’s branch.

More than 100 amateur cyclists got their wheels in motion on Thursday, August 8, joined by cycling legend Sean Kelly who has supported the fundraiser for almost 20 years, kicking off their challenging journey at Cork’s historic English Market, making their way through Waterford, Tipperary, Limerick, Clare, and Kerry.

This year’s Tour de Munster marks a notable milestone as the celebrated charity cycle supports the DSI for the 15th consecutive year. Since its inception in 2000, the Tour has raised an astounding €5 million for the well-deserving cause.

What an amazing weekend with Tour de Munster!
Thank you to everyone who worked so tirelessly on this fundraiser, those who volunteered and those who took up the incredible challenge to cycle all through the six counties in just 4 days! pic.twitter.com/sfE819uQnZ— Down Syndrome IRL (@DownSyndromeIRL) August 12, 2024

All of the money raised from the Tour de Munster will support DSI Munster branches in providing crucial services to their members. These vital services include Occupational Therapy, Speech and Language Therapy, Employment Opportunities and other life-enhancing aid for individuals with Down syndrome and their families.

Speaking about this year’s Tour, Michelle Coughlan, Chairperson of Down Syndrome Limerick said, “The funds raised from this event have been transformative, allowing the Limerick branch of Down Syndrome Ireland to offer essential therapies and support to our children and adults with Down syndrome.”

Throughout the Tour de Munster, cyclists got to meet members of Down Syndrome Ireland’s Munster branches and see just how much their support means. These encounters made it clear how the funds raised really make a difference, bringing essential services and support to those who need it most. The connections made along the way highlighted the real impact of their efforts and the difference it makes in the lives of people with Down syndrome and their families.

Founder of the Tour de Munster, Paul Sheridan, expressed his gratitude to everyone involved, at the top of Patrick’s Hill, “I couldn’t be prouder of each person who took part in this year’s Tour. Seeing their hard work and commitment pay off is just fantastic. This four-day cycle is not for the faint-hearted, and everyone has shown immense dedication, not just over the four days, but in the weeks and months leading up to it. Many participants are returning supporters, year after year, and we were thrilled to welcome some new faces to the Tour de Munster community.”

Paul added, “The support we received throughout the four days was incredible. I want to thank everyone who came out to cheer and encourage us along the way. It means so much and provides great motivation for everyone. Our supporters are crucial to the Tour’s success. Seeing the families who benefit from the funds raised and having the backing of our supporters drives us to keep going.”