Details of the charity partnership, which sees the annual 600km Tour de Munster charity cycle once again share the journey with Down Syndrome Ireland (DSI) Munster branches, have been officially announced.
This will be the 15th successive year that the national charity has been the beneficiary of the popular cycle around the six counties of Munster. The four-day Tour de Munster charity cycle, established 24 years ago, has raised €5 million for DSI Munster branches.
The funds generated annually by Tour de Munster play a significant role in sustaining the essential support and services provided by DSI Munster branches to their members. From Speech and Language Therapy to Occupational Therapy and beyond, these branches offer comprehensive lifelong assistance to individuals with Down syndrome and their families.
The enduring tradition of Tour de Munster sees an average of 120 cyclists embark on the testing journey around the towns and villages of Munster in efforts to raise vital funds for the Munster branches of DSI. Scheduled for this summer from August 8th to 11th, the Tour promises another unforgettable experience for everyone involved.
Commenting on the charity partnership with Down Syndrome Ireland, Paul Sheridan, who established Tour de Munster, said: “The Munster branches of Down Syndrome Ireland are an extremely worthy beneficiary of the Tour and over the last 14 years of our partnership, we have received a huge amount of support from the six branches and families themselves who benefit from the funds raised. The amazing children and adults who rely on the services provided by their local DSI branches are the reason we put so much hard work in.”
Also commenting on the partnership, Claire Wright, interim CEO of DSI, said: ““We are delighted to see the fantastic partnership between Tour de Munster and DSI Munster branches enter into its 15th year and are honoured to be the main beneficiary. Every cent raised makes a difference to our members, ensuring they have access to the vital supports and services they require. Paul Sheridan, the driving force behind Tour de Munster has created a wonderful community with our local branch committees who work tirelessly to engage local support and contribute greatly to the ongoing success of the Tour. We look forward to meeting faces old and new on the road to Tour de Munster 2024.”
The 2024 Tour de Munster will kick off from Cork City on Thursday, August 8th and continue over four days around the six counties of Munster before returning to Cork City on August 11th.
