The 24th annual edition of the Tour de Munster charity cycle has been officially launched by cycling legend Seán Kelly at Limerick’s Plassey House.
The popular Tour which takes place from August 8th to August 11th will see amateur cyclists travel 600km across the six counties of Munster in efforts to raise vital funds for the Munster branches of Down Syndrome Ireland (DSI).
The launch saw details of this year’s Tour unveiled as cyclists taking part prepare for the four day trek through the towns and villages of Munster. No easy feat, cyclists are motivated and driven by their shared goal of raising much-needed funds and awareness for the Munster branches of Down Syndrome Ireland.
The 24th Tour marks a significant occasion as the renowned charity cycle will contribute to the national charity for its 15th consecutive year. Since its inception in 2000, the Tour de Munster has raised a staggering €5 million for the Munster branches of DSI.
All of the money raised from Tour de Munster will help to provide the crucial support and services offered by DSI Munster branches to their members. Such vital services include Speech and Language Therapy, Employment Opportunity, Occupational Therapy and other life enhancing aid to people with Down syndrome and their families.
Paul Sheridan who established Tour de Munster spoke at the launch of the tour stating: “I’m thrilled by the turnout here today at Plassey House as we celebrate the official start of the 24th Tour de Munster. A heartfelt appreciation goes out to the incredible members and families of Down Syndrome Ireland, as well as to all the supporters of the Tour—businesses, organisations, and especially the dedicated cyclists—who contribute to making a tangible difference in the lives of individuals with Down syndrome and their families throughout Munster.”
Sean Kelly, who has been involved with Tour de Munster for many years, spoke of his love for the event in Limerick: “Reflecting on the past 19 years of collaboration with Tour de Munster and its invaluable beneficiaries, the members of the Munster branches of Down Syndrome Ireland, fills me with immense pride. Throughout this time, we have witnessed the evolution of an event that consistently delivers enjoyment and support. It’s been a journey marked by meaningful connections and impactful contributions, and I am honoured to be a part of it again.”
CEO of DSI, Nichola Aylward, commented on the partnership of Tour de Munster and DSI at the launch: “On behalf of Down Syndrome Ireland, I would like to offer our deepest thanks to everyone who has taken part in Tour de Munster, from those in the saddle, to those who shake the buckets, and everyone who supports the event in so many different ways. This event has built an extraordinary community, and every single one of you has played a role in making it a success. Our members feel the impact of your efforts every day, in the supports and services Tour de Munster helps us to provide. We can’t wait to reconnect with old friends and familiar faces, as well as all those joining us for the first time for Tour de Munster 2024. Each and every participant and supporter is worth their weight in gold”.
During the launch event, Maeve Crawford and Nina Carey, organising committee of Down Syndrome Clare and parents, said “We have been so excited about the upcoming tour, which is set to begin again in August. It’s a pleasure being present in Limerick for the official launch, surrounded by a supportive network of friends and family. I want to extend a heartfelt thank you to the Tour de Munster for their unwavering support, and the pivotal role of the funds raised by the tour in sustaining the branch’s essential support and services for our members.”
Clare FM, Tipp FM, WLR FM, Red FM, SPIN South West and Pure Radio are the Official Media Partners of Tour de Munster 2024.
To donate to this year’s Tour de Munster, https://www.idonate.ie/event/tdm24.
For more information on the Tour de Munster visit www.tourdemunster.com, find it on Facebook, or follow the tour on Twitter @TourDeMunster.
For further information on Down Syndrome Ireland see www.downsyndrome.ie.