'Incredible to witness': Tour de Munster raises over €500,000 for Down Syndrome Ireland

The Tour de Munster charity cycle has once again made a significant impact, raising over €543,000 in aid of Down Syndrome Ireland (DSI) this year. 

The impressive total was officially announced on Saturday, December 20 during a cheque presentation ceremony proudly attended by cycling legend and long-time Tour supporter Sean Kelly.

This year marked the 25th edition of the Tour, which took place from August 7 to 10 and represented a notable milestone as the renowned charity cycle celebrated its 16th year supporting DSI. Since its launch in 2001, Tour de Munster has now raised an extraordinary €5.5 million for the Munster branches of Down Syndrome Ireland.

The 2025 charity cycle once again saw participants take on a demanding 600km journey through the picturesque counties of Munster, each presenting its own unique test, from rugged terrain to unpredictable weather. Despite the shifting conditions and physical strain, cyclists pushed through with determination, driven by a cause close to many of their hearts.

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Their efforts aimed to raise vital funds that will have a profound impact on the lives of individuals with Down syndrome across Munster, supporting essential services and facilities that benefit both them and their families throughout the region.

Each cyclist, supported by family, friends and dedicated volunteers, covered their own expenses to ensure that every cent raised went directly to DSI and other chosen support charities. 

Several cyclists also opted to raise funds for other causes close to their hearts, including the West Cork Down Syndrome Support Group and Cork ARC Cancer Support House. The total raised by this year’s Tour exceeded €575,000.

Speaking during the cheque presentation, Paul Sheridan, founder of Tour de Munster, said: “I am immensely proud to mark the 25th anniversary of the Tour de Munster and to reflect on how far this charity cycle has come. Year after year, the dedication of our cyclists, volunteers and supporters has helped us grow this initiative into something truly meaningful. Raising over €575,000 this year is a remarkable achievement and the €543,000 raised for Munster branches of DSI will make a significant difference to the vital work they carry out daily.

Sheridan continued: “We are deeply grateful to the many companies, organisations, and individuals who have stood by us over the past 25 years. Their continued generosity has made this journey possible. As we look to the future, our goal is to build on this momentum, strengthen the Tour even further, and continue expanding our impact for many years to come.”

Sean Kelly, a longtime supporter of Tour de Munster, said: “It’s incredible to witness the remarkable growth of the Tour de Munster over the years and the extraordinary effort put in by every cyclist who takes part. I’ve experienced many great achievements throughout my professional career, but the spirit, determination and heart shown on this Tour stands out in a very special way. I’m proud to return year after year, because I can see the real and lasting impact this event has on families and individuals with down syndrome across Munster. Every kilometre ridden is worth it when you witness the difference it can make.”

Aidan Stacey, CEO of Down Syndrome Ireland: “Tour de Munster captures the very best of community spirit, compassion and determination. To see over €575,000 raised in 2025, as the Tour celebrates its 25th year, is deeply moving and a powerful reminder of what people can achieve when they rally behind a cause that truly matters. On behalf of Down Syndrome Ireland, I want to express our heartfelt gratitude to the cyclists, volunteers, sponsors and supporters whose generosity continues to change lives.”

Following this year's Tour, Claire Power, Chairperson of Down Syndrome Waterford and South Kilkenny, said: “I want to express a huge thank you to everyone involved for their hard work and dedication over the past year. As Tour de Munster celebrates its 25th anniversary, the incredible fundraising and awareness raised through the Tour continue to make a real difference in the lives of so many children and adults with Down syndrome. It’s what makes this event so special, year after year. The friendships formed among families, cyclists, volunteers, and the organisation are a huge part of what makes Tour de Munster such an amazing experience. We truly can’t thank everyone enough for their support and commitment.”

Clare FM, Tipp FM, WLR FM, Red FM, SPIN South West, and Pure Radio are proud to serve as the Official Media Partners for Tour de Munster 2025.

For further information about Tour de Munster visit www.tourdemunster.com or find it on Facebook. For further information on Down Syndrome Ireland, please see www.downsyndrome.ie.