Carlow to host start of Stage Four and Five of this year's Rás Tailteann
Pictured at the launch of Carlow’s hosting of the stage four and stage five starts of Rás Tailteann 2026 were Michael McCarthy, ESF+ Social Innovation Officer; Cllr. Paul Doogue, Mayor; Linda Culleton, Economic Development Officer; Deborah Foley, Coordinator; Gerard Bonner, Programme Manager; Jack Woods; Mike O’Donaghoe, Rás Tailteann Winner 1973; Ger Campbell, Race Director; Teresa O'Meara, Sport Inclusion Development Officer; Caroline Shanahan, Community Sport Development Officer; Eddie Dawson; Cllr. Ken Murnane, Cathaoirleach Carlow County Council
Cairde Rás Tailteann has confirmed that Carlow will host both the stage four and stage five starts of the 2026 Rás Tailteann.
The 2026 event will see riders depart from Carlow Town on consecutive days, with stage four travelling to Baltinglass, Co. Wicklow on Saturday, May 23rd before the final stage heads from Carlow to Dunboyne, Co. Meath on Sunday, May 24th.
Speaking at the official launch, Cllr Ken Murnane, Cathaoirleach of Carlow County Council, highlighted the significant economic and promotional benefits the race is expected to bring to the county. With teams, officials, media, sponsors and supporters all based locally across the weekend, it is estimated that the event will deliver an economic boost of approximately €250,000 to the local economy.
Local ride Con Scully will again compete in the event and ride for the Dan Morrisey team.
Cairde Rás Tailteann would like to sincerely thank Carlow County Council, Carlow Municipal District and all local partners for their support in bringing two race starts to the county. Special thanks are extended to Kieran Comerford, Linda Culleton and the Economic Development team, along with all council staff and volunteers involved in preparations for the event.
Race Director Ger Campbell said: “We are absolutely delighted to have Carlow hosting two stage starts for Rás Tailteann 2026. From an organisational point of view, the support we have received from Carlow County Council has been exceptional. The roads, terrain and local facilities make Carlow a fantastic base for the race, while the enthusiasm locally has been brilliant to see. These stages will be hugely important in shaping the outcome of the race and we know the riders will receive a tremendous welcome in Carlow.”
Cllr Paul Doogue, Mayor of Carlow Municipal District, added: “Carlow is very proud to welcome Rás Tailteann to the county. We look forward to showcasing not just our roads and scenery, but also the warmth and hospitality of the local community. We would encourage people to come out and support the race and enjoy what promises to be a fantastic weekend for Carlow.” T
he launch event was also attended by two well-known figures from the history of the Rás — Mike O'Donoghue, winner of the 1973 Rás Tailteann, and former Assistant Race Director Eddie Dawson. O’Donoghue finished runner-up in 1972 before claiming overall victory in 1973 and securing nine stage wins during his Rás career, while Dawson has been involved with the race for more than five decades as both a rider and organiser.
