Latest news with #TourdeMunster
Irish Examiner
3 days ago
- Sport
- Irish Examiner
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
RTÉ News
4 days ago
- Sport
- RTÉ News
Man told he would never cycle again to take on Tour de Munster bike challenge
A Limerick man who was told he would never be able to cycle again is taking on the Tour de Munster bike challenge to raise funds for charity. Conor O'Dea went from cycling competitively to being paralysed from the neck down after an accident seven years ago. But tomorrow, he will begin the 640km bike tour around the counties of Munster. Sport has always been an important part of Mr O'Dea's life. He had been a Gaelic footballer in his youth and took up triathlons in later life. In August 2018, while training for a triathlon event, he was involved in an accident. "I ended up having an impact off the back of a van headfirst, and I was thrown out onto the side of the road. I was whisked away to the local hospital, and I was unconscious for three days," he said. Mr O'Dea had a spinal cord injury and at first had no movement in his body below his neck. While in University Hospital Limerick, some tiny movements returned, and he was transferred to the National Rehabilitation Hospital in Dublin. Speaking on RTÉ's Drivetime, he said he was determined to focus on gradual improvement. "I made a conscious decision that I just was going to think positive and not dwell in any negativity. There's no point in looking backwards, there's nothing to be gained from it, and there's no point in looking too far forward either, because the further you look into the future, the more negativity." Over time, more movement returned to both his upper and lower body. "It's all about little incrementals, and I'm happy with the incrementals. That's all that matters. That's how I survive." A triathlon friend contacted him to suggest he could get a custom-built trike adapted to his needs. With the help of a local bike shop and charities, the idea became reality. "The first time I got the trike, and I went out my front gate there and turned down, I could feel the wind in my face. And that was a real sign of wow, ok, you're back on the bike." "I never thought I'd get this feeling again. I'm not an emotional fish, but that was close to it. It was incredible." Mr O'Dea said it has been easy to stay positive with the "amazing" support of his family, friends and carers. Tomorrow, he will begin the 640km Tour de Munster bike challenge. The four-day event raises funds for Down Syndrome Ireland. Joining him on the tour this year will be his care team, headed by Paula O'Keeffe, Bluebird Care Limerick, who first met Mr O'Dea at the National Rehabilitation Hospital. "Conor is definitely unique. Conor was very positive, which I suppose is the most prominent thing," she said. "When I did meet him first, he did say I am going to walk again. So I said ok, let's try that. And it's just been loads of different milestones Conor has met and surpassed. So it's great to be part of that." Ms O'Keeffe had not cycled a bike in 15 years, but after meeting Mr O'Dea, she signed up for her first triathlon. "He said if you do the triathlon, I'll go and see you coming in on the finish line. Now I had to learn to swim before we did it, so that was a bit of a challenge. But I said, look, if Conor can do what he can do, I can definitely manage to learn." While dealing with his spinal injury, Mr O'Dea has inspired people to take up challenges and has raised significant funds for charities. But he wears those achievements lightly. "I do get told that by people that I am inspirational, but I don't see it as inspirational," he said. "As far as I'm concerned, I haven't changed. I'm the same Conor before the accident as after the accident. I'm still training, I'm just doing different training." "I won't say it's no big deal, but that's the way I look at it. Now, if people want to take inspiration from that, perfect. But I don't look at myself in that light at all."
Irish Independent
4 days ago
- Sport
- Irish Independent
Irish cycling legend to take part in Tour de Munster
More than 100 amateur cyclists are preparing to take on a challenging 600km journey through the six counties of Munster, from Thursday to Sunday, August 7 - 10. The epic cycle is all in support of raising crucial funds for the Munster branches of Down Syndrome Ireland (DSI). This year's tour marks a major milestone, celebrating 25 years on the road for the renowned charity cycle. Since its launch in 2001, Tour de Munster has raised over €5 million for the Munster branches of DSI, making a meaningful and lasting impact on the lives of children and adults with Down syndrome throughout the region. Carrick-on-Suir cycling legend Seán Kelly will once again join the four-day expedition, pedalling through Munster's cities, towns, and villages. His participation supports the vital work of the DSI Munster branches, which provide essential services and support to their members. While the journey is physically demanding, the cyclists share a powerful sense of purpose - raising crucial funds and awareness for Down Syndrome Ireland across the province. The 2025 Tour de Munster will kick off from the iconic English Market on Grand Parade in Cork city on Thursday, August 7. After four days of challenging cycling across Munster, the Tour will return to Cork on Sunday, August 10, where participants will face the demanding climb of St. Patrick's Hill to mark the grand finish. In Tipperary, the local branch of Down Syndrome Ireland (DSI) is already putting up the bunting and balloons to host the cyclists. Stage 1: Cork - Killaloe, on Thursday, August 7, will see the cyclists visit Clogheen DSI Tipperary for pasta and pastries in Clogheen Community Hall (1.15pm – 2pm), then on to Cahir at 2.30pm, Tipperary town at 3.30pm, and Ballykisteen for lunch at 3.40pm to 4.30pm. From there, the cyclists ride on to Limerick for a reception by DSI Limerick at King John's Castle at 5.50pm. It's then on to Barry's Cross at 6.35pm, before finishing the day at Killaloe's Lakeside Hotel at 7.15pm overlooking River Shannon, where they will treated to entertainment, some of it provided by members of DSI Tipperary based in Thurles. ADVERTISEMENT Learn more Speaking ahead of this year's tour, Paul Sheridan, who established Tour de Munster, said: 'Reaching 25 years is a huge milestone, and it's a testament to the dedication and heart that surrounds this event. 'Taking on the Tour de Munster requires real commitment, with months of training, fundraising, and preparing for four challenging days on the road. 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. 'From August 7 to 10, 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.' Speaking ahead of this year's Tour, Claire Power, Chairperson of Down Syndrome Waterford and South Kilkenny, said: 'We're so proud to be part of the Tour de Munster's 25th anniversary. 'The impact of this event on our community in Waterford and South Kilkenny cannot be overstated. Every cent raised goes toward providing vital services for our members, and the support from local businesses and the wider public is truly heart-warming. We look forward to lining the streets in support of the cyclists and wish them a safe and successful tour.'
Irish Daily Mirror
29-07-2025
- Health
- Irish Daily Mirror
Irishman told he'd never cycle again after spine injury takes on 640km challenge
Eight years after a life-changing spinal injury, Conor O'Dea is proving what's possible one kilometre at a time as he embarks on a massive cycle - all in the name of charity. When Limerick man Conor was seriously injured in a cycling accident in 2017, he never imagined he'd one day return to one of Ireland's toughest charity bike events. But this August, alongside his carer Paula and a custom-built trike, he's doing precisely that, taking on the Tour de Munster Challenge to raise funds for Down Syndrome Ireland. 'They told me I wouldn't cycle again, but that was never going to be the end of the story,' says Conor. 'Life didn't end. It just changed.' Now in its 25th year, the Tour de Munster is a four-day, 640km charity cycle through all six counties of Munster. Conor has taken part both before and after his injury and says the event holds deep personal meaning. 'After the accident, getting back on the road with a trike and feeling the wind in my face, it was nearly emotional,' he recalls. 'Tour de Munster was always a goal for me. The camaraderie, the people, the welcome in every town, it's a family.' Since his injury, Conor has raised close to €200,000 for charities including Spinal Injuries Ireland, Millimetre 2 Mountains, Challenged Athletes Foundation, Greenmount Cycling Academy, Down Syndrome Limerick and the Tour de Munster Charitable Foundation. Joining him on the Tour this year will be his Care team, headed by Paula O'Keeffe, Bluebird Care Limerick, who first met Conor at the National Rehabilitation Hospital. 'He was lying in a hospital bed, saying, 'I'm going to get out of this bed. I'm going to walk.' And I just thought, okay, let's try,' she says. Paula hadn't cycled a bike in 15 years, but after meeting Conor, she signed up for her first triathlon. 'He even inspired me to do that,' she laughs. 'We push each other on. I get just as much out of it as he does.' Young Charie Tuffy with Limerick man Conor O'Dea and his custom-built trike at City Hall, Limerick ahead of the 2025 Tour de Munster, supported by Bluebird Care in aid of Down Syndrome Ireland. They are pictured with Ellen Tuffy, Down Syndrome Limerick, Mark McInerney , Bluebird Care Ireland and Paula O'Keefe. (Image: Eamon Ward) Conor says their teamwork is what makes this year's Tour so meaningful. 'We've trained together, laughed through the tough days, and now we'll ride together. That means a lot.' Ellen Tuffy, committee member at Down Syndrome Limerick, said, 'Conor is a beacon of hope and determination. 'His achievements, both physical and mental, are truly extraordinary. He embodies the powerful message that disability does not equate to inability, a belief we hold strongly at Down Syndrome Limerick. 'Conor's journey continues to inspire our members with Down syndrome, showing them that they, too, can challenge and overcome the stereotypes often imposed by society. The unwavering support from Paula and the Bluebird team throughout his journey has been equally uplifting, demonstrating the profound impact that genuine care and belief can have on someone's potential'. Young Charie Tuffy with Limerick man Conor O'Dea and his custom-built trike at City Hall, Limerick ahead of the 2025 Tour de Munster, supported by Bluebird Care in aid of Down Syndrome Ireland. They are pictured with Ellen Tuffy, Down Syndrome Limerick and Paula O'Keefe. (Image: Eamon Ward) The team is supported by Bluebird Care, who provide nurse-led, premium homecare services across Ireland. Conor credits their help and Paula's unwavering support with enabling his continued recovery and independence. 'From the very first time Paula came to see me at the NRH, Bluebird Care have been exceptional,' he says. 'And any time I get a wild idea like Cambodia or another Tour, Paula's the first person I call.' Bluebird Care is also donating towards Conor's Tour de Munster ride, with all funds redirected to Down Syndrome Ireland's six Munster branches. At Bluebird Care, we believe in ability, resilience, and the power of human connection and Conor and Paula represent all of that and more. Their journey is a shining example of what's possible when compassion meets determination. We are proud to stand behind them as they take on the Tour de Munster, and we encourage everyone to support their remarkable efforts in aid of Down Syndrome Ireland' Mark McInerney, COO, Bluebird Care Ireland. The Tour de Munster takes place from August 7 to 10, with over 120 cyclists participating in support of families and individuals with Down syndrome across the province. Conor's fundraising page for this year's Tour de Munster can be found here. Subscribe to our newsletter for the latest news from the Irish Mirror direct to your inbox: Sign up here.
Irish Independent
24-06-2025
- Sport
- Irish Independent
Cycling legend Seán Kelly launches ‘incredible' 25th Tour de Munster in Limerick
Set to take place from Thursday, August 7 to Sunday, August 10, this year's Tour will see amateur cyclists ride across all six counties of Munster to raise vital funds for Down Syndrome Ireland's (DSI) Munster branches. 'This year's 25th edition is a special milestone, and I'm proud to be part of it once again,' said Seán Kelly, who is supporting the Tour for the 19th consecutive year. 'I've been fortunate to meet so many incredible children and adults with Down syndrome through Tour de Munster over the past two decades. The commitment shown by DSI's Munster branches is truly inspiring. Their work provides vital services and support, and it's a privilege to play a role in helping that continue,' he added. Speaking at the Limerick launch, Tour de Munster founder Paul Sheridan reflected on how far the event has come: 'It's hard to believe we're marking the 25th Tour de Munster, a milestone that reflects the incredible commitment of everyone involved over the past 25 years. 'From the beginning, this event has been rooted in community, compassion and the drive to make a real difference.' Paul Sheridan remains the only cyclist to have participated in every single Tour since 2001, covering more than 15,000 kilometres, equating to nearly a third of the way around the world. Funds raised from the cycle go toward essential services for people with Down syndrome, including speech and language therapy, occupational therapy, employment support, and other life-enhancing supports across Munster. Claire Power, Chairperson of Down Syndrome Waterford and South Kilkenny, praised the Tour's impact: 'The funds raised have helped us keep essential services like speech and occupational therapy going, which we simply couldn't do without.' DSI President Gerard O'Carroll added: 'On behalf of Down Syndrome Ireland, thank you to every rider, donor, and volunteer for being part of this remarkable journey.' Since it began in 2001, the Tour has raised over €5 million for Down Syndrome Ireland. To support the tour or make a donation, visit
