2026 Dornan Rás Mumhan Set to Launch Another Landmark Season for Irish Cycling

As surely as night follows day, the easing of winter’s grip brings the 2026 Dornan Rás Mumhan ever closer marking the beginning of what promises to be another exceptional season in Irish cycling. Enthusiasts from across the country and beyond are preparing for one of the standout events on the Irish domestic calendar, set once again against the breathtaking landscapes of Kerry, Cork, and now Limerick.

The Dornan Rás Mumhan has long served as a proving ground for emerging talent. Irishman Ben Healy, the 2019 champion and now one of the most respected riders on the World Tour, used the event as a pivotal early stepping stone to international success. Reflecting on his experience, Healy said:

Ben Healy – 2019 Winner:

“Rás Mumhan was one of the first races where I felt I could really test myself against top riders. It’s tough, unpredictable, and completely unforgiving, the perfect environment for learning how to race properly. It played a massive role in my progression, and I’m proud to see how strong the event has become.”

Other former standout performers have also gone on to achieve major results. Dom Jackson, runner‑up in 2024 with the London‑Irish Foran Cycling Team, progressed to win the 2024 Rás Tailteann. George Kimber, winner of Stage 1 in Knocknagoshel in 2024, secured the overall victory at the 2025 Rás Tailteann.

Race Director John Breen commented:

“Rás Mumhan has long been a showcase for both emerging talent and seasoned riders, and we take great pride in providing a platform for the very best in the sport. The 2026 edition will again highlight the future stars of cycling. With teams already registered from Norway, the Netherlands, Portugal, Britain, and Ireland, our roster is already at 75% capacity—a testament to the race’s growing reputation. We look forward to hosting over 170 riders once again this year.”

2026 Route Overview

The 2026 Dornan Rás Mumhan retains its established four‑day, five‑stage format:

Stage 1 – Team Time Trial: Ballybunion to Asdee

The race opens with a fast, technical TTT along the North Kerry coastline.

Stage 1 (Road Race) – Asdee to Knockanure

Later that afternoon, riders depart Asdee, taking in sweeping views of the Atlantic and the Shannon Estuary via Ballylongford, Tarbert, and Glin, before tackling two loops of the Athea–Knockanure circuit and finishing in Knockanure village.

Stage 2 – Killarney to Portmagee

A return to Killarney brings riders to the mythical Bealach Oisín, crossing the Iveragh Peninsula and joining the spectacular Skellig Ring. The stage includes the notorious Cuam an Easpaig, finishing with speed and drama in Portmagee.

Stage 3 – Millstreet to Clondrohid

A fast and aggressive stage offering two high‑speed circuits around the Macroom area before turning toward Millstreet and concluding on top of the brutal climb to The Kerryman’s Table, a decisive test for the general classification.

Stage 4 – Killorglin Finale

The final day begins in the historic town of Killorglin—home to cycling legends including Mikie Breen winner of Ras Mumhan in 1978 and 1972 Rás Tailteann champion John Mangan. The route includes the rapid Beaufort loop and continues over the iconic McKenna circuit before finishing in the famed Killorglin town square, delivering a dramatic conclusion to this Easter weekend tradition.

In the last 4 editions the rule book has been discarded with regards to the defining stages that the race could be won or lost, the unpredictability and the inability for the larger teams to control the race makes it even more interesting. Roscommon man Daire Feeley winner of the Ras Tailteann in 2022 and ranked as Irelands top domestic rider has been knocking hard on the door this last couple of years, could this be his year? The wealth of Junior Irish riders breaking into the top ranks of international cycling, the likes of Seth Dunwoody have all used the race as a platform and a place to display the talent to the baying public. The design of the stages by Race Director John Breen, ensures it showcases national domestic talent as well as elite and development teams, ensuring fair but challenging routes. The riders know that preparation and the winter miles are a prerequisite as well as form and ability. Any shortcomings will be immediately exposed, very few places to hide in such unforgiving terrain.

Community & Sponsorship

Renowned for its emphasis on teamwork and competitive spirit, Dornan Rás Mumhan remains a cornerstone of Irish cycling. Title sponsor Dornan – A Turner Company embodies these values. Group Managing Director Micheál O’Connor, a proud Kerryman from Asdee, stated:

“Entering our third consecutive year as main sponsor, we’re delighted to continue supporting an event that consistently delivers both sporting excellence and meaningful community engagement. Rás Mumhan represents commitment, preparation, and collective effort – qualities we value deeply at Dornan. It energises the towns and communities along the route, and we are proud to play a role in sustaining its positive impact.”

The event would not be possible without the support of host clubs and community groups, including Killarney CC, Sliabh Luachra CC, Skellig Rangers GAA Portmagee, Ballybunion Community and Sea & Rescue, Asdee GAA, Abbeyfeale CC, Knockanure, and Killorglin. Their continued collaboration with Cycling Ireland and Cycling Munster remains central to the success of the race.

Rás Mumhan Secretary Sinéad Moriarty added:

“The commitment of our host clubs, volunteers, and community organisations is vital. Their dedication ensures Rás Mumhan remains a highlight of the Irish cycling calendar.”

Teams are encouraged to finalise registration as capacity is nearing its limit. For enquiries, email secretary@rasmumhan.ie.

New Memorial Trophies for 2026

The 2026 edition introduces two new memorial trophies honouring individuals whose dedication and spirit left a lasting imprint on the Irish cycling community:

• C2 Blue Jersey Trophy – In Memory of Tomás Walsh (Comeragh CC)

Tomás, who tragically passed away in July 2025 at the age of 25 a proud Waterford, Déise and Comeragh CC man who held the Blue Jersey during          the 2019 edition while guesting for Killorglin CC the same year Ben Healy won overall. The trophy, donated by his parents Bernie and Frank Walsh,        will be presented during the final stage in Killorglin.

• U23 Jersey Trophy – In Memory of Oliver McKenna

A stalwart of Irish cycling for over 50 years and a long standing member of Balbriggan CC, Oliver’s remarkable legacy will be honoured through the        presentation of the U23 memorial trophy.

Though Dornan Rás Mumhan has grown into a prestigious international event, it remains deeply connected to the cycling family. The race will continue to honour the memory of Tomás Walsh and Oliver McKenna, ensuring their contributions endure as part of the Easter weekend festival of cycling for many years to come.