The Irish event in 'L’Étape by Tour de France' will take place in Co Kerry, based around the hills of Killarney, the organisers have revealed today just 24 hours after teasing the initial details.
It will also be open to 3,000 cyclists and though the Tour de France did not visit Kerry when it came to Ireland in 1998, the L'Étape Ireland is being billed as 'the chance to sample the unique thrills and challenge of a Tour de France stage in Ireland for the first time'.
"Riders can choose from two routes with different elevation and distance profiles; a 100km route or a more challenging 138km route," the organisers said of the event to be held on September 7th.
"Both routes will have three timed mountain stages taking in iconic climbs across Molls Gap, Ballaghbearna Pass and Caragh Lake to compete for the title of King and Queen on the mountain and a coveted polka dot jersey.
Advertisement
"There will also be a Sprint section where participants can battle it out for a Tour De France Green jersey," they said, adding there would also be a pop-up Tour de France Museum and athlete meet and greets, with Tour stage winner and former GC rider Dan Martin expected to be on hand.
The event will be held on "closed or partially closed roads and the race and its participants will be monitored by safety officials throughout".
Related News
Race director, Oliver Kirwan, of elite events management, said he was delighted to unveil the new event for Ireland.
“To bring L’Etape to Ireland is incredibly exciting for us and anyone interested in experiencing the thrills of the Tour De France," he said.
"Ireland is steeped in cycling history and has some of the best cycling anywhere in the world with Kerry being up there with the best on offer.
“L’Etape is special in that you don’t need years of training to participate and live your dream of taking on a Tour de France stage. If you enjoy cycling, a bit of a challenge, and some spectacular views, then L’Etape Ireland is a perfect goal to work towards this summer.”
CEO of Cycling Ireland, James Quilligan, said: "We are delighted to be here at the launch of L’Etape Ireland today.
"The inclusion of L’Etape Ireland is another great addition to the Cycling Ireland calendar and offers a brilliant opportunity for all our members to get involved. We expect this event to be of particular interest to our Leisure riders.”
