3 days ago
Cycling legend Seán Kelly helps to launch Down Syndrome fundraiser at 25th Tour de Munster
Cycling legend Seán Kelly got the wheels rolling on the 25th Tour de Munster fundraising cycle on Thursday, which has raised over €5m for Down Syndrome Ireland (DSI) branches across the province over the last two decades.
Mr Kelly, one of most successful road cyclists of the 1980s and one of the finest classics riders of all time, led more than 100 participants off from Cork's famous English Market on the 600km four-day tour of the province.
They will visit all six of its counties before rolling back into Cork on Sunday to face the gruelling climb up the steep St Patrick's Hill to mark the grand finish.
Since its launch in 2001, cyclists taking part in the various Tour de Munster events have raised more than €5m for DSI's Munster branches, which DSI says has made 'a meaningful and lasting impact' on the lives of children and adults with Down syndrome throughout the region.
(Left to right) Claire Wright of Down Syndrome Ireland, Paul Sheridan, founder of the Tour de Munster; Jeni Kiely; Lord Mayor of Cork Fergal Dennehy; Cycling legend Seán Kelly; Cial Casserly, and Tara Casserly, chairperson of Down Syndrome Cork, at the official start of the 25th annual Tour de Munster. Picture: Michael O'Sullivan / OSM PHOTO
Tour founder, Paul Sheridan, said reaching the 25th anniversary of the event is a huge milestone for everyone involved.
'It's a testament to the dedication and heart that surrounds this event,' he said.
'Taking on the Tour de Munster requires real commitment, with months of training, fundraising, and preparing for four challenging days on the road.
Noel Day (left) from Glanmire, and Ger Brickley (right) from Blarney at the official start of the 25th annual Tour de Munster, marking the cycle's silver anniversary in aid of Down Syndrome Ireland Munster branches. Picture: Michael O'Sullivan / OSM PHOTO
'But what keeps the wheels turning is the incredible spirit behind it all.
'The support from the public means everything; it lifts our cyclists mile after mile.
'Every cent raised goes directly to the Munster branches of Down Syndrome Ireland, making a genuine impact where it's needed most.
Jeni and Joey Kiely from Carrigaline at the official start of the 25th annual Tour de Munster. Picture: Michael O'Sullivan / OSM PHOTO
'We're asking the people of Munster to rally behind us once again by cheering us on, donate if you can, and help us continue making a real difference together.'
Tara Casserly, the chairperson of Down Syndrome Cork - Field of Dreams branch, said they are honoured to be part of the Tour de Munster's 25th anniversary celebrations.
(Left to right) Mike Forde, Carrigtwohill, Catherine Cashman, Midleton, Tod McCarthy, Skibbereen, and Maria O'Neill, Aghada, at the official start of the 25th annual Tour de Munster. Picture: Michael O'Sullivan / OSM PHOTO
'Each year, this event brings such positive energy to our community, and seeing the cyclists make that final climb up St Patrick's Hill is always a moving moment,' she said.
'At Down Syndrome Cork - Field of Dreams, we deeply appreciate the dedication and generosity that fuels this Tour.
(Left to right) Leah, Conor, Jean, Avril, and Michael Mallon from Bishopstown at the official start of the 25th annual Tour de Munster. Picture: Michael O'Sullivan / OSM PHOTO
"The impact it has on our members' lives is enormous, and we'd love the people of Cork to come to Patrick's Hill next Sunday and help us to cheer everyone on.'
You can support the Tour de Munster fundraiser by donating at
