By Sean Moriarty

Two legends of Kerry cycling will be remembered during this year’s Rás Mumhan.

The four-day international race – the biggest cycling event in Kerry – was launched this week.

Rás Mumhan, taking place over the four days of the Easter weekend, is the first major Stage Race of the Irish cycling calendar.

One of the highlights of this year’s international event sees a return to the amphitheatre that is Killorglin, taking in the traditional Beaufort loop before they head on to the circuit around the town for 10 laps with the finish on the main street up the hill. It will allow for a spectacle for all and ignite the passion for those who love the sport of cycling.

“The final stage in Killorglin is this year an even more fitting tribute to the great John Mangan who won the Rás Tailteann in 1972, and for those of you that remember the giants of the past, to get to the roadside to support the present and future warriors of the Rás Mumhan,” said event PRO Mark Murphy.

As well as winning Ireland's biggest bike race 50 years ago, Killorglin native Mangan enjoyed 14 years as a professional cyclist and won several races in France.

Kerry Group Rás Mumhan has been traditionally run by Killorglin Cycling Club but is now a regional wide effort by Killorglin, Tralee Manor West Cycle Club, Sliabh Luachra Cycling Club and Killarney Cycling Club. Without the combined support the event would certainly be way more difficult to run.

“We wish to acknowledge the passing of our great friend Padraig Harnett who for years so willingly gave of his time in the promotion and coverage of the event and his loss has been felt throughout the sporting world here in Kerry."

Padraig, who passed away last October was the most influential cycling journalist in Kerry.

Last year’s winner Lindsay Watson of Velo Revolution will make a defence of his title.

He will be challenged by local riders who have laid their claim in the form of Tom Moriarty from Castlegregory who had a successful year in 2022 in the professional ranks, and Lorcan Daly of Milltown who is the current Munster criterium champion.