Drogheda will proudly host the opening stage of the 70th edition of Rás Tailteann on Wednesday next, May 21st – a major sporting moment for the town and a chance for locals to be part of Irish cycling history.
With 145 riders from 29 teams representing Ireland, the UK, USA, Germany, the Isle of Man, Mexico, and beyond, Rás Tailteann promises top-level competition and unforgettable atmosphere.
The event’s base on the morning of the race will be St Nicholas’ GAA Club on Rathmullan Road, with the race build-up starting from 8:30AM. The public is warmly invited to come down, meet riders and teams, and soak in the pre-race buzz. The peloton will leave St Nick’s at 11:20AM, before the official ceremonial start on West Street at 11:30AM.
From there, the riders will head out the Donore Road, turn right at Frank’s Country Cottage, then left along the canal and over the Obelisk Bridge. The racing proper begins on the main Slane Road, where the journey to the first finish line in Boyle begins.
This year is particularly special for Drogheda, with four of the six members of the Rás promotions group hailing from the town. It’s a true homecoming for one of Ireland’s most iconic races.
“Bringing the Rás back to our hometown means a huge amount to all of us involved” said Race Director Ger Campbell.
“We’re thrilled to have the support of St Nick’s GAA, the community, Louth County Council, Visit Louth, local councillors and Love Drogheda BIDS – and to see such strong local involvement behind the scenes and in the race itself.”
That local pride continues on the road, with Drogheda cyclist Kevin Leech lining up at the start. A respected and powerful rider, Leech’s presence gives locals someone to roar for as the race rolls through familiar streets.
Mayor Paddy McQuillan is also urging schools and the wider community to get out and show their support. “It’s a special thing to welcome an international event of this scale to Drogheda” he said. “Let’s give these cyclists a send-off they’ll never forget.”
This Wednesday, all roads lead to Rathmullan, West Street, and beyond. Let’s line the streets, wave the flags, and make Drogheda proud.
