More than a cycling event, the Sean Kelly Charity Cycle continues to bring together the Dornan community in support of causes that have made a real difference in the lives of our people and their families. For the second-year running, Dornan hosted the Sean Kelly Charity Cycle, bringing together employees, clients, suppliers, family, and friends for a memorable day of cycling. 

Held on June 18th, 2026, participants gathered at Fota Golf Club before setting off through East Cork. While this year’s event may not have enjoyed the sunshine of its inaugural outing, the rain showers that accompanied riders throughout the day did little to dampen spirits. In fact, the weather seemed only to strengthen the sense of camaraderie among participants. Due to the weather conditions, the planned 70km route was shortened to 50km, with participants completing either the 30km or 50km route to ensure safety remained the top priority. All cyclists stopped at the Garryvoe Hotel for a well-earned break and refreshments, with many who had originally planned to complete the 30km route deciding to continue on and tackle the full 50km challenge. 

Adding to the occasion was Irish cycling legend Sean Kelly, who once again joined participants for the entire route. Throughout the day, Sean spent time speaking with cyclists, sharing stories and encouragement

 along the way before taking part in a Q&A session back at Fota Golf Club following the cycle. His enthusiasm for the event was evident throughout the day, and he is already looking forward to returning again next year. 

A special addition to this year’s event was the presence of Velo Performance, the youth cycling team proudly sponsored by Dornan. The team joined riders on the day and represented the next generation of cycling talent. Through its sponsorship, Dornan helps support opportunities for the young athletes to train, develop, and compete, reflecting the company’s wider commitment to investing in communities and helping them reach their potential. 

Supporting Causes Close to the Dornan Community 

At the heart of the event was an opportunity to support causes that have made a meaningful difference to many within the Dornan team and their families. As part of the day, Dornan donated €15,000, with €5,000 each presented to three deserving charities. 

Down Syndrome Limerick provides essential services, programmes, and advocacy for people with Down Syndrome and their families, helping individuals reach their full potential while fostering inclusion and support within the community. 

Breast Cancer Ireland funds lifesaving research and delivers vital educational and awareness programmes, supporting thousands of people affected by breast cancer each year. 

The Shine Centre for Autism provides specialist services and support for autistic children, helping families access the resources and guidance they need throughout their journey. 

Each charity was chosen because of the positive impact it has had on people connected to Dornan, making the donations especially meaningful. 

Speaking about the event, Micheál O’Connor, Group Managing Director at Dornan said:

“This event is really important to us. First and foremost, it’s about supporting charities and giving back to organisations that make a real difference to people’s lives. It’s also about wellbeing. There’s more to life than work, it’s about getting outdoors, spending time with colleagues, clients, suppliers, family and friends, and sharing a positive experience together.

Dornan is an Irish business, but we’re also an international business. Wherever we work, we want to be part of the community, contribute to it, and give something back. One of the benefits of working hard and building a successful business is being able to support charities, bring people together, and create opportunities like this.”

The success of the Sean Kelly Charity Cycle would not have been possible without the dedication of the organising team who worked tirelessly behind the scenes to bring the event to life and ensure another outstanding experience for everyone involved. 

Following the success of the event’s first two years, the Sean Kelly Charity Cycle has quickly become a highlight of the Dornan calendar. The day is more than a cycling event; it is an opportunity to strengthen relationships, support worthwhile causes, promote wellbeing, and bring people together outside of the workplace.

Reflecting on the success of the day, Darren Tutty, Group Finance Director at Dornan said: 

“Over the last few years, we have put a lot of work and effort into our whole ESG policy, with one of the focuses placed on employee wellbeing. So it’s great to be able to step away from the office environment and do something like this, not only for the charities but also our people. It’s a day out, it’s a bit of fun, and we get to meet and interact with people, while also giving back to our community.” 

With another successful event completed, €15,000 donated to three incredible charities and plans already being discussed for next year, Dornan looks forward to building on the success of the Sean Kelly Charity Cycle for many years to come.

We’re proud to have donated €15,000, with €5,000 presented to three worthy causes: Down Syndrome Limerick, Breast Cancer Ireland, and The Shine Centre for Autism. These charities have provided invaluable support to members of our team and their families, making this contribution especially meaningful.

Thank you to everyone who cycled, volunteered, and supported the event, especially the organising committee whose work behind the scenes made this possible. 
 
We look forward to continuing this event for many years to come.