Rás Tailteann Returns to Miltown Malbay for First Stage Finish Since 1971; Ennis to Host Stage 4 Start

Matthew Fox of Wheelbase / Cabtech / Castelli wins a stage of Rás Tailteann 2023 into Barefield, Co. Clare ahead of Patrick O’Loughlin of Team Ireland. (Photographer: Lorraine O’Sullivan)

Cairde Rás Tailteann is delighted to confirm that Miltown Malbay will host the Stage 3 finish of the 2025 Rás Tailteann on Friday, May 23rd, marking the race’s first stage finish in the town since 1971. While the Rás passed through Miltown Malbay in 1972, it has not hosted a finish since that memorable day over five decades ago. On the following morning, Saturday, May 24th, Ennis will proudly welcome the race for the start of Stage 4, continuing an exciting weekend of elite cycling in County Clare.

Stage 3 begins in Cong, Co. Mayo, and spans 163.8km of challenging and picturesque terrain. The riders will take on several climbs along the way — including the Corkscrew, Doonagore Cross, and the iconic Cliffs of Moher — before descending into Miltown Malbay, where the finish line on Church Street is expected to come alive at approximately 2:30PM.

Stage 4 will begin outside the Clare County Council Offices in Ennis at 11:45AM on Saturday and will lead the peloton to Mountrath, Co. Laois, via a route that features the decisive category one Wolftrap Climb in the Slieve Blooms, just 14km from the finish.

Maurice Reidy, stage end organiser and member of the Miltown Malbay Development Company, said: “It’s a huge honour to welcome the Rás back to Miltown Malbay after more than 50 years. The race holds a special place in Irish sporting culture, and our community is excited to be part of this 70th edition. We’re ready to give the riders and supporters a fantastic Clare welcome.”

Ger Campbell, Race Director, added: “Having a stage finish return to Miltown Malbay for the first time since 1971 is incredibly special. The town has a rich Rás heritage and a deep love for Irish sport. We're also thrilled to roll out from Ennis the next day — two strong, supportive Clare communities helping us mark this milestone year.”

Cairde Rás Tailteann would like to express sincere thanks to Maurice Reidy, Pat Tiernan (for his work in organising the start in Ennis), Councillor Bill Slattery, Clare County Council, the residents of Church Street, the local Garda Síochána, and Visit Clare for their essential support in bringing the race to Miltown Malbay and Ennis.

Sé O’Hanlon during his racing days (Photographer: Unknown)

Stage 3 Dedicated to Sé O’Hanlon

The award in recognition of Sé O’Hanlon (Graphics: Alan Bingham)

This year’s Stage 3 is dedicated to Sé O’Hanlon, one of the most iconic figures in the history of Rás Tailteann, on the 60th anniversary of his second overall victory in 1965 which included five stage wins. Known for his aggressive riding style, immense stamina and tactical brilliance, O’Hanlon remains one of the most successful riders the race has ever seen, with four overall wins to his name between 1962 and 1967.

Race Director Ger Campbell paid tribute, saying: “Sé O’Hanlon represents everything the Rás has always stood for — courage, commitment, and a fighting spirit that captured the imagination of the Irish public. It’s only fitting that we honour him during this 70th edition, and particularly on a day that echoes the era he defined.”

STAGE ROUTE