From left: Rás na mBan Race Director Valerie Considine, Team Ireland star and New Ross native Linda Kelly and Cathaoirleach (Gorey-Kilmuckridge MD) Cllr. Donal Kenny at the launch of the Wexford stage of Rás na mBan at Gorey-Kilmuckridge Municipal District Offices, Gorey.
Ireland's Top Stage Racers Heading to Gorey in September
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Ireland’s premier women’s international stage race, Rás na mBan, will make a much-anticipated return to County Wexford for a second time in its history as part of the 19th edition of the event.
Stage two of the 2025 race on Thursday, September 4th promises a mix of challenging climbs, fast racing, and stunning scenery as the riders tackle another memorable day on the roads of the Model County.
The 104.2km route will set off from the Hoban Hotel in Kilkenny at 11am, taking riders through the picturesque towns of Kiltealy and Bunclody before facing two demanding Queen of the Mountain tests at Sliabh Buí and Ballymore. The peloton will then race towards an exciting finish in Gorey, with the first riders expected to cross the line at approximately 1:30pm.
Cllr. Donal Kenny, Cathaoirleach (Gorey-Kilmuckridge MD) welcomed the return of the race to Wexford, saying, “We are thrilled to see such a prestigious international sporting event back in County Wexford. Having Gorey as a stage finish once again gives us a fantastic opportunity to showcase the beauty and charm of our county to both the riders and an international audience. I commend the Rás na mBan organisers and Wexford County Council for working together to bring world-class women’s sport to our roads, inspiring the next generation of female athletes.”
Race Director Valerie Considine expressed her excitement at revisiting the county, “It’s a real pleasure to return to Wexford for Stage 2 of this year’s Rás na mBan. Our previous visit was an unforgettable experience for riders and supporters alike, and we’re confident that this year’s route will be equally rewarding. The heritage, landscapes, and warm welcome in Wexford make it a perfect host for top-level racing and I'd like to pay tribute to Wexford County Council and the Garda Síochána for their wonderful support in making this stage happen.”
The 2025 edition of Rás na mBan begins on Wednesday 3rd of September, running over five days and six stages with more than 400km of racing. Alongside the Wexford stage taking place on Thursday 4th of September, the race will feature a mix of hilly tests, time trials, and high-speed runs, ensuring another edition packed with drama, endurance, and world-class competition.
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