2026 Stage 2 Route Details
By Ras Admin
Jun 1, 2024, 18:07
Stage 2: Rathmore, Co Kerry to Banteer, Co Cork
(Distance: 182.9 KM) Thursday, May 21st, 2026
Rathmore – Barraduff – Kilgarvan – Kenmare – Bonane – Glengarriff – Ballylickey – Pearson’s Bridge – Kealkill – Coppeen – Béal na Bláth – Crookstown – Coachford – Dripsey – Nad – Lyre - Banteer
Following a transfer to County Kerry,
Stage 2 will start in Rathmore, close to the home of Sliabh Luachra Cycling Club, who have made great strides since their foundation.
A long and demanding day awaits, featuring six categorised climbs. A Category 3 climb before Kilgarvan opens the action, followed by a run into Kenmare and onward into West Cork.
The race will then take in the famous Tunnel Road / Caha Pass, before descending into Glengarriff. A further Category 3 climb follows before the long ascent to Gougane Gap.
Two additional Category 3 climbs on the approach to Banteer complete the day. The village is steeped in Rás tradition having produced riders who have occupied the top four positions in the race over the years:
Dillon Corkery – 1st (2023), Paudie O’Brien – 2nd (2007), Mick Cahill (RIP) – 3rd (1973), Eddie Dunbar – 4th (2016)
A remarkable achievement, and a special welcome is sure to await the riders in Banteer.
Stage 3: Mitchelstown, Co Cork to Enniscorthy, Co Wexford
(Distance: 155.6 KM)
For more information go to their official webpage:
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| Fons Steuten Holland Rás winner 50 years ago 1976 |
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