MORE THAN 6,000 people have signed up for the sixth Sean Kelly Tour of Waterford, one of the country’s biggest annual cycling events. The main rides take place out of Dungarvan tomorrow.
Since its inception the event has grown rapidly, partly because of the way it caters for cyclists of all abilities by offering a choice of distances, ranging from 50km to 160km. There is also a shorter family ride today.
The much-praised organisation of the event, with 500 volunteers on duty this weekend, has also contributed to its success. Pete Jones of Waterford Sports Partnership said it attracts people from all over Ireland and the world. “Last year, the only county not represented in the cycle was Longford,” he said.
“There are camper vans here since earlier this week. All the hotels and BBs are booked out in the area because of the popularity of the event, so it’s a great boost for the local economy,” he said.
The tour originated in tribute to former professional cycling champion Sean Kelly, from Carrick-on-Suir, who takes part each year.
Last year, 5,300 riders registered to take part, and the number has risen to 6,500 this weekend.
The tour has four routes. Today’s 12km Kelly Spin is aimed at family groups. Tomorrow’s programme includes the 50km Kelly Cruise for leisure cyclists and the 160km Kelly Comeragh Challenge for serious sports cyclists.
The 100km Kelly Heritage route is a new addition to the event and will take riders through parts of west Co Waterford before returning to Dungarvan.
A tour expo will be held at Dungarvan Shopping Centre from 2-5pm today with music, entertainment, a bike village and food for children and adults. Registration for tomorrow’s rides has closed, but entries for today’s 12km Kelly Spin can be registered at the shopping centre from 10am.
The event is part of the An Post Cycle Series and is supported by Waterford County Council and Waterford Sports Partnership, along with local cycling clubs and community groups.