Stage 4 of the 70th Edition of Rás Tailteann to Conclude in Mountrath, Co. Laois

The 70th edition of Rás Tailteann, Ireland’s most historic and prestigious cycling race, continues its landmark journey with Stage 4 finishing in Mountrath, County Laois on Saturday, May 24, 2025. This will be the first time the Rás finishes in Mountrath, bringing the energy and excitement of world-class racing to the heart of the Laois community.

The stage begins in Ennis, Co. Clare at 11:45AM and features a challenging route including five categorised climbs, culminating with the Category 1 ascent of the Wolftrap in the Slieve Bloom Mountains — a key moment in this year’s race. The riders are expected to arrive at Mountrath at approximately 2:30PM, where a great crowd and warm welcome await.

Ger Campbell, Race Director, said: “The 70th edition of Rás Tailteann is shaping up to be a truly special occasion, and bringing a stage finish to Mountrath for the first time makes it even more memorable. The climb over the Wolftrap will test the best, and it’s going to be a fantastic spectacle in the final kilometres. I want to say a massive thanks to Elaine Moore and all at Laois County Council for their support”.

Michael Rainey (CEO, Laois County Council), Angela McEvoy (Director of Services, Laois County Council), Seamus Kavanagh (Stage End Organiser), Keith Muldowney (Chair, Ossory Cycling Club), Padraig Fleming (Cathaoirleach, Laois County Council) and Elaine Moore (Tourism Officer, Laois County Council). (Photographer: Dom Reddin)

Seamus Kavanagh, Stage End Organiser, said: “It’s been a privilege to help bring this stage to Mountrath. I want to sincerely thank Fr. Joe Brophy and St. Fintan’s Church as well as Bloom HQ for use of their car parks, and Councillor James Kelly for all his generous support. Huge thanks also go to the members and friends of Ossory Cycling Club for helping steward the race safely, and to the Ossory CC Committee for sponsoring the flowers for the presentation. The whole town has come together to make this happen.”

Elaine Moore, Tourism Officer with Laois County Council, said: “Hosting a stage finish of Rás Tailteann here in Laois is a great opportunity to celebrate both sport and community. Mountrath and its people have really embraced this event, and we’re delighted to be part of this historic 70th edition.”


Stage four to be dedicated to Mick Twomey – A Rás Legend

The official award for the dedication of stage four to Mick Twomey (Graphics: Alan Bingham)

Stage 4 is dedicated to Mick Twomey, our longest-serving Rás official. Mick’s first involvement with the race began as a competitor before he turned his energy toward supporting the event as a volunteer. Since 1961, Mick served continuously in various official roles, becoming one of the most respected and enduring figures in Irish cycling.

Whether as a commissaire, race marshal or team coordinator, Mick was known for his calm authority, encyclopaedic knowledge of the Rás, and above all, his unwavering commitment to the sport. He was a fixture of the event for over six decades, and his influence will be felt for many more.

Ger Campbell added: “Mick Twomey has given more than 60 years to the Rás. He is part of the race’s very fabric, and everyone from riders to organisers benefit from his wisdom and dedication. It’s entirely fitting that we honour his legacy in the 70th edition with this stage.”

Mick Twomey with his family after receiving his award in Mountrath

STAGE ROUTE