Kilmallock is counting down to the arrival of Rás Tailteann 2026 for a stage finish in the town on Wednesday next, 20th May, writes John Barrett.
Having started in Portlaoise earlier in the day, the 71st edition of the cycle race will travel south through Laois and Tipperary before reaching Kilmallock where the first stage winner of this year’s race will be crowned. Delighted with the outstanding local input, organisers have thanked Limerick County Council and the community in Kilmallock for their support in hosting the event. The town also had a stage one finish two years ago when a fantastic turnout of spectators created a brilliant atmosphere. Locals are now being encouraged to come out once again to give the riders a big welcome.
Paul Gammell, stage finish organiser, told the Vale Star, “It is a great honour for Kilmallock to again host the stage one finish. The town really embraced the race when it came here in 2024, and there is great excitement locally at the prospect of welcoming the riders, teams, officials and supporters back again. We would encourage people to come out, enjoy the occasion and help create another special Rás atmosphere in Kil-mallock.”
The Rás Tailteann finish marks the start of a four-day festival of sport in the town. Don’t miss our four-page feature inside this week.
Meanwhile, Stage 2 of the Rás will finish in Banteer village on Thursday 21st May. Banteer is steeped in Rás tradition, having produced riders who have finished first, second, third and fourth overall in the race – Dillon Corkery (winner in 2023), Paudie O’Brien (second in 2007), Mick Cahill (third in 1973) and Eddie Dunbar (fourth in 2016). On its route to Banteer, the stage will begin in Rathmore and pass through areas such as Kenmare, Coachford, Dripsey, Nadd and Lyre.