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Rás na mBan returns to Laois with tough stage
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Rás na mBan returns to Laois with tough stage

For sixth consecutive edition Laois hosts a Rás na mBan stage

Rás na mBan is returning to County Laois for a sixth consecutive edition on Friday September 5th when Ireland’s top road racing cyclists will go wheel to wheel with riders from across Europe on the 104km third stage through the Slieve Bloom Mountains to Mountrath.

Stage 3 will get underway with a ceremonial start from Laois County Council Áras An Chontae at 11:10AM on Friday 5th of September. The stage will take riders through Stradbally, Emo, Mountmellick, and Clonaslee before they take on the iconic climb “The Cut”. Riders will then pass through Mountrath to complete a lap passing through Castletown, towards Larry Cross, before turning towards Ballacolla and on to Abbeyleix before racing towards the finish line in Mountrath. Riders are expected to reach the finish in Mountrath between 13:59 and 14:28, depending on conditions and bunch speeds.

Laois Tourism Officer Elaine Moore; Head of Enterprise, Local Enterprise Office Laois, Evelyn Reddin; Cathaoirleach of Laois County Council, Cllr Barry Walsh; cyclist Ellen McDermott (Irish National Gravel Champion), Laois County Council Chief Executive Michael Rainey and Brenda Bowe, Rás na mBan committee at the launch of the Rás na mBan 2025 Stage 3 to be held on Friday 5 September. Starting in Portlaoise at 11.15am the route takes in Stradbally, The Heath, Emo, Mountmellick, Rosenallis, Clonaslee, The Cut, Mountrath, Aghaboe Abbey, Ballacolla, Abbeyleix and finishes in Mountrath approx 2.30pm Photo: Alf Harvey.

Cllr. Barry Walsh, Cathaoirleach Laois County Council said, “It is a privilege for us to host this international gathering of cyclists here in Laois and in Mountrath.

“This year’s race brings together more than 100 riders, supported by some 50 team members, alongside an incredible volunteer effort — 80 race crew and over 200 stewards and marshals — all of whom help create a spectacular showcase on the roads of Laois. The event will once again highlight the rich landscapes and history of Ireland’s Ancient East.

“We know that both competitors and spectators alike will relish the challenge of the race and the chance to enjoy the scenery and hospitality of County Laois.

“I want to express my gratitude to the race organisers for again choosing Laois as part of this year’s route, and to An Garda Síochána for their vital assistance in keeping everyone safe.

“I wish every rider the very best of luck for September’s race and hope that all enjoy a safe, exciting and memorable event. I look forward to greeting you at the finish line.”

Cathaoirleach of Laois County Council, Cllr Barry Walsh; Irish National Gravel Champion cyclist Ellen McDermott and Brenda Bowe, Rás na mBan committee at the launch of the Rás na mBan 2025 Stage 3 to be held on Friday 5 September. Starting in Portlaoise at 11.15am the route takes in Stradbally, The Heath, Emo, Mountmellick, Rosenallis, Clonaslee, The Cut, Mountrath, Aghaboe Abbey, Ballacolla, Abbeyleix and finishes in Mountrath approx 2.30pm Photo: Alf Harvey.

Race Director Valerie Considine added, “The 104km stage of Ireland’s top international stage cycle race for women takes place entirely in County Laois on Friday 5th of September when a peloton of riders from across Europe will start from Portlaoise and make their via The Cut in the Slieve Bloom mountains to the finish line in Mountrath.

“Last year’s atmosphere in the bustling market town of Mountrath was fantastic as we saw scores of school children line the streets to cheer the riders on both as they passed through and as they prepared to sprint to the finish line.

“We always get a great welcome in Laois and we’re incredibly grateful for the continuing support of Laois County Council and an Garda Síochána without whom the event would not be possible.

“The riders all love the challenge of the Slieve Blooms and it will be really exciting to bring top international racers to the finish of stage three in Mountrath where we have already been made particularly welcome.”