The second annual Vincent Lacke Memorial Soccer Tournament took place on Sunday at the Killarney Sports and Leisure Centre.

Organised by the Kerry Stars Special Olympics Sports Club, the event celebrated the life of the “gentle giant” whose presence is still deeply missed by his clubmates and friends.
Vincent’s sister, Mary Lyne, and her husband Mikey were in attendance to witness the competition.

While the Mallow teams ultimately claimed both perpetual trophies, the day focused on participation and sportsmanship, with every athlete receiving a medal for their efforts.
The medals and trophies were presented by Brendan, manager of Tesco Deerpark, where Vincent was a highly regarded staff member for over 20 years.

Several of his former Tesco colleagues also gave up their Sunday to volunteer at the event.
Club officials expressed their sincere gratitude to the Order of Malta and the staff at Aura for their assistance, as well as the volunteers who managed the refereeing and logistics.

Plans are already in motion for next year’s tournament, with more of Vincent’s family expected to travel from the USA to attend.

Registration is now open for the 44th annual Ring of Kerry Charity Cycle, with thousands of cyclists expected to descend on Killarney this summer for the country’s largest one-day charity event.

Taking place on Saturday, July 4, the 170km route remains a cornerstone of the local sporting and fundraising calendar.

The cycle has come a long way since its humble beginnings in 1982, when a small group of local riders first took to the road to raise money for a dialysis centre.

In the four decades since, the event has raised an incredible total of more than €21.9 million, benefiting over 200 different charities and community groups across the region.

This massive undertaking is made possible each year by a dedicated army of over 1,200 volunteers who manage everything from food stations in Cahersiveen and Kenmare to medical and technical support along the Wild Atlantic Way.

The online registration system went live on Tuesday of this week. Participants are encouraged to sign up early via the official website to secure their place in the pack.

The entry fee of €100 (plus a 4% admin fee) ensures that the event can continue its mission of “cycling for those who can’t,” providing a vital lifeline to the numerous local and national organisations that rely on the funds raised by the participants’ pedalling.

Ring of Kerry Cycle 2026: The Beneficiaries

Main Tier 1 Beneficiaries Breakthrough Cancer Research, Brú Columbanus, Down Syndrome Kerry, Ballinskelligs Inshore Rescue, Kerry Hospice Foundation, and the Jack and Jill Foundation.

Tier 2 Beneficiaries Recovery Haven Cancer Support House, Enable Ireland Kerry, Irish Red Cross Tralee, Social Action Group Rathmore, Barnardos, Dillon Quirke Foundation, and Cycle Against Suicide.