Rás Mumhan to include Moll’s’ Gap stage finish

THE route for the Kerry Group Rás Mumhan is expected to be finalised next week but the big news is the Easter Saturday stage will retain its traditional toughness.

The race, which runs from Good Friday, April 2, to Easter Monday, will include a stage finishing at the top of Moll’s Gap.

That particular stage will start in Killarney and then visit Kilgarvan, Kenmare, the Healy Pass, back the tunnel road to Kenmare and on to what promises to be a spectacular finish on Moll’s Gap.

The news the Kerry Group will again sponsor one of Ireland’s leading stage races will reinforce the quality of the event, which reached new heights last year when Brian Kenneally from Kilkenny reclaimed the title in a tightfinish.

Frank Hayes, Director of Corporate Affairs Kerry Group, said the event played a crucial role in promoting cycle racing in Ireland.

“It is evident from the level of interest shown to date at both local and national level, coupled with the success of the 2009 event, the Kerry Group Rás Mumhan is held in high esteem.”

Race Secretary Mary Concannon said Kerry Group’s association with the Rás has taken the event to a new level with significant interest from cyclists in the international arena.”

Race Director Tadhg Moriarty said Kerry Group had brought the event to a new level when they came in as the main sponsor this year.

The quality of this year’s race spread quickly across Europe and first time interest has been shown by Belgium and Turkey, who would be new to the event. Already numerous clubs from Holland and Great Britain have made enquiries.

“It is very important to point out this race is for the very top level amateur riders,” Tadhg Moriarty said. “We feel the pro teams are adequately catered for with races like the FBD Insurance Ras. We want to cater for the fellow who cycles at the highest level and who still goes to work.

“Last Easter’s event drew numerous teams from Holland and Great Britain and those are all anxious to get back in again next year. The fact we have had enquiries from the Isle of Man, Belgium and Turkey shows how the race is continuing to develop.

“We will take national development teams as long as they are all amateurs and we do that with the full backing of our sponsors who feel the pro scene is well looked after.

“Last year we had a field of 110 and we see that as about the size of the race although we could accommodate 120. It should be stressed the Irish rider will always be looked after. There will be no junior riders in the field as we want to keep the race just under the level of the FBD Insurance Ras. We want the riders who can go the distance and deal with the terrain.”

Any clubs, teams or individuals interested in taking part should contact Race Secretary, Mary Concannon: Tel: [phone] 353 87 2802071, [e-mail].