Rás na mBan rolls into Kilkenny this week

For the third consecutive year, 120 racers from 17 countries will travel to Kilkenny this week for the country’s biggest competitive cycling event for women.

Once again, top European sports broadcaster Eurosport will broadcast the race and Kilkenny across Ireland, Britain, Australia and Asia into the homes of millions of viewers. Organisers are encouraging spectators to join them on the penultimate and final days as the riders storm through Kilkenny in a race to the finish line on the parade under the shadows of the scenic Kilkenny City.

Rás na mBan takes place across Kilkenny City and county from tomorrow (September 5) until September 9. The event will see athletes cover a distance of 400km throughout six intensive stages. 

Some ideal spectator locations include Graignamanagh on September 5 from 17.34pm, Castlecomer on September 6 from 12pm, 12.50pm and 13.50pm, Nine Stones, Mount Leinster on September 7 from 14.40pm. On September 8, Tullaroan on the from 10am-12.13pm and Kilkenny Castle from 6.30pm to 7.20pm. On September 9, catch a final glimpse of the riders at Woodstock Climb, Inistioge from 12.35pm.

The 2017 event was won by British Olympian Elinor Barker in what was the biggest and most competitive field in the history of the race. Once again, Kilkenny County Council are supporting Rás na mBan and lending their backing to the coveted Best Irish Rider Classification which was won in 2017 by Eve McCrystal of Garda Cycling Club.

For route details for the 2018 edition, stage outlines and spectators’ tips on attending the event will be announced in due course on www.rasnamban.com.