Tour de Munster finishes with what must be one of toughest 'Hill' finishes in cycling

The closing stages of the Tour de Munster took place in Cork yesterday with a mammoth climb up Patrick's Hill.

The four-day cycle which totals 640km is all in aid of Down Syndrome Ireland.

The gruelling climb is the final stage of the race and there was plenty of help and support for the weary riders all the way up.

The race started in Waterford City Hall last Thursday and finished at Patrick's Hill, Cork on Sunday (August 7), with 120 riders passing over the finish line.

One rider, Michael O'Gorman is a member of the Cork branch of Down Syndrome Ireland who has a 13-year-old son, David, with Down Syndrome.

Michael said the climb up Patrick's Hill is the pinnacle.

"It's a big challenge but the crowd gets you up that hill.

"It's a great fundraiser. Over the last seven years for Down Syndrome we've raised the best part of €2 million from this charity event alone. All funds go to the six branches of Munster.

"The things those branches have done for their children and young adults is unbelievable."

Congratulations to all the riders who took part.

For more info on Tour de Munster, visit their website HERE.