One hundred and twelve top cyclists from all over the globe are heading to our shores to contest the third edition of the Tour of Ireland, from August 21 to 23. This year’s race, in association with Fáilte Ireland, takes place over three gruelling days, covering 576km of challenging roads with breathtaking scenery including Thomastown, Inistioge, Mullinavat and Graiguenamanagh.
The race line-up features the two biggest names in world cycling. Seven times Tour de France winner Lance Armstrong (Astana ) arrives in Ireland fresh from this year’s French tour where the former cancer sufferer showed that he can still battle with the best. Eight times Tour de France stage winner Mark Cavendish (Team Columbia-HTC ) is the young protagonist looking to add to his stage race victories and aiming to win the An Post green jersey. Team tactics will play a big role In deciding the final winner of the race and both teams are expected to bring strong support for their team leaders. Last year’s Italian winner Marco Pinotti (Team Columbia – HTC ) returns to defend the overall title he won on the spectacular stage in Cork.
Astana and Columbia-HTC teams will face home challenges from the An Post Sean Kelly Team as well as the Irish national team. Teams from across the globe will complement the field and give a truly international flavour.
