Dornan Rás Mumhan to add fifth stage, team time trial, this year

Rás Mumhan, now sponsored by Dornan, has confirmed the race is expanding to five stages this year, with the addition of a team time trial.

The TTT is an unusual feature in Irish racing, and has not been used in the main senior stage races for years. However, organisers of Dornan Rás Mumhan believe the addition of the team TT is an innovative move that will shake up the race a little.

Racing has been tighter in Kerry during Easter since the event was opened to juniors and some of the stages have been shorter. However, the TTT will definitely bring about gaps and should prove a charter for aggressive racing on the remaining road stages.

In what is a very welcome move, and one that will level the playing field, only road bikes are being permitted in the TTT.

“As the region stirs from winter slumber on Good Friday, we are thrilled to unveil the expanded Dornan Ras Mumhan,” said new race director John Breen.

“Commencing with an 8km team time trial and followed by a specially curated Road Stage on serene routes, this race promises an all-encompassing experience for riders and fans alike.

“This all-round course caters to diverse riders, aligning with the essence of teamwork integral to the sport,” added Breen, also confirming the race would move away from Tralee for the first couple of stages.

“The addition of the team time trial aims for a balanced competition, ensuring minimal gaps among top contenders while spotlighting participating teams.”

Dornan’s group managing director, Micheál O Connor, said he was delighted the race was being expanded in the first year the company was backing it.

“We’re thrilled to support the 2024 Dornan Ras Mumhan, an event that echoes our commitment to excellence, teamwork, and pushing boundaries,” he said.

“We look forward to witnessing cyclists conquer challenging stages and celebrating the camaraderie that defines this thrilling race.”

The race is being hosted by a number of clubs – Currow, Abbeyfeale, Killarney, Killorglin, and Sliabh Luachra – with partners Cycling Ireland and Cycling Munster.

Sinead Moriarty, secretary of Dornan Rás Mumhan, is now welcoming expressions of interest from teams until Sunday, January 28th. For inquiries, contact [email protected].