Tour De Munster 2026 Goes the Distance for Down Syndrome Ireland

Tour De Munster 2026 – Pictured are Cyclists Robbie​ Kenneally, Down Syndrome Ireland, Limerick Branch; Paul Sheridan, Founder, Tour de Munster​; Irish former pro cyclist, Sean Kelly​; Barry ​Neehan, ​Clonmel​, Co. Tipperary; Anne ​Goggin, ​Kilf​in​nan, Co. Limerick; (Front) Orla​ Plattan, Down Syndrome Ireland, Clare Branch; Charlie ​Tuffy​, Down Syndrome Ireland Limerick Branch and Leah ​Heavin​, Ballycotton pictured at the end of the 2026 Tour de Munster charity cycle/ Picture: Alison Miles / OSM PHOTO

More than 100 cyclists complete 600km journey across Munster, raising vital funds for Down Syndrome Ireland for Tour De Munster 2026

The 26th edition of the Tour de Munster charity cycle came to a triumphant close on Sunday, 9 August, as more than 100 cyclists conquered Cork City’s iconic St. Patrick’s Hill, greeted by an enthusiastic crowd of supporters and members of the Down Syndrome Ireland community.

Over four days, participants travelled 600 kilometres through all six counties of Munster, raising vital funds for the Munster branches of Down Syndrome Ireland (DSI). The annual charity cycle supports essential services and programmes for children and adults with Down syndrome and their families across the province.

The Tour De Munster 2026 tour began on Thursday, 6 August, departing from outside Cork’s historic English Market before making its way through Waterford, Tipperary, Limerick, Clare and Kerry, returning to Cork for the traditional finish on St. Patrick’s Hill. Cycling legend and long-time Tour de Munster Ambassador Seán Kelly once again joined participants throughout the four-day journey, lending his support to cyclists taking on the physical challenge for an important cause.

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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 Tour’s primary beneficiary since 2010. Every euro raised helps fund vital services including speech and language therapy, occupational therapy, employment programmes and practical supports that empower children and adults with Down syndrome to lead more independent lives.

Along the route, cyclists were warmly welcomed by local communities, schools and Down Syndrome Ireland branches, with many stopping to meet families who benefit directly from the services funded by the Tour. These moving encounters served as a powerful reminder of the lasting impact of every kilometre cycled and every euro raised, while enthusiastic roadside supporters created a memorable atmosphere throughout the four-day event.

Speaking at the finish line, Founder and Organiser of Tour de Munster, Paul Sheridan, said, “Every year, crossing the finish line is an incredibly special moment, but what makes Tour de Munster truly remarkable is the people behind it. Our cyclists dedicate months to training and fundraising, our volunteers work tirelessly behind the scenes, and communities across Munster come out in force to support us along the route.

“Seeing everyone come together over the past four days has been inspiring. We are enormously grateful to every participant, sponsor, volunteer and supporter who has helped make this year’s Tour another tremendous success. Together, we are making a real and lasting difference in the lives of children and adults with Down syndrome throughout Munster.”

Aidan Stacey, CEO of Down Syndrome Ireland, said: “Tour de Munster is a remarkable example of what can be achieved when people come together with generosity, determination and a shared commitment to inclusion. Every cyclist who takes on this extraordinary challenge, every volunteer who gives their time, every sponsor who provides support and every person who donates or welcomes the Tour into their community is helping to create greater opportunities for children and adults with Down syndrome across Munster.

“I want to offer our sincere thanks to Paul Sheridan, the cyclists, volunteers, sponsors, supporters and communities throughout Munster. Their loyalty to the Tour and to people with Down syndrome over so many years is truly exceptional, and the impact of that commitment is felt long after the cyclists cross the finish line.”

Tara Casserly, Chairperson of Down Syndrome Ireland Cork Branch, added: “Tour de Munster is always one of the highlights of our year. It is incredibly moving to see so many people give their time, energy and commitment to support families across Munster. The welcome the cyclists receive in every town and village reflects the genuine connection that has been built over the past 26 years.

“The generosity shown through this year’s Tour will directly support the delivery of essential services that make a meaningful difference every day. We are deeply grateful to everyone who played a part in making the Tour De Munster 2026 such a success.”

Clare FM, Tipp FM, WLR FM, Red FM, SPIN South West and the Limerick Leader are the Official Media Partners of Tour de Munster 2026.

Donations to this year’s Tour de Munster remain open. To support the Tour, please visit here.