Cycle event provides tourism spin-offs for Limerick

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Written by David Raleigh

Thursday, 28 August 2008

Mid-West development company, Shannon Development, is delighted that this years Tour of Ireland cycle race will be visiting Limerick, providing unlimited tourism opportunities.

The firm said television images of Limerick City and County, which will be seen by millions of viewers when coverage of the race is beamed round the world on Saturday August 30, will be a huge boost for local tourism.

Sixteen teams from 20 countries worldwide will cycle through the streets of Limerick City, and the byways of County Limerick, as part of day four of prestigious cycle race, which is being organised in association with Failte Ireland.

“The impact of this event will be huge in terms of tourism promotion for city and county and will be featured on 180 television markets worldwide. It will also enhance Limerick’s reputation internationally as a sports destination. A team from Shannon Development has been working with Failte Ireland to ensure that everything runs smoothly on the day,” said Pat Daly, Tourism Marketing Manager, Shannon Development.

“In addition, there will also be a direct benefit for Limerick in terms of accommodation, with over 700 bednights being generated, when the team and their supporters overnight in the city on Friday, August 29, and have a chance to enjoy our city’s range of dining and entertainment options. We would urge the people of Limerick to come out and show their support on Saturday and give the teams a fantastic Limerick send-off,” added Mr Daly.

The event begins in Dublin this Wednesday, August 27, from where the cyclists will travel to Waterford.

On day two they will travel from Thurles to Loughrea and Day three will see them cycle from Ballinrobe to Galway and overnight in Limerick City.

The build-up for the event starts on Saturday, August 30 at 8.45am on Clancy Strand and entertainment will be provided for the occasion.

Cyclists will assemble there at 9.35 am and the race will start at 10.45 am.

The cyclist’s route through Limerick will incorporate views of the River Shannon and the Georgian streetscape of Limerick when they travel over Sarsfield Bridge onto O’ Connell Street.

From here the route takes them to Patrickswell. They will then travel through the picturesque village of Adare, on to Croagh, Rathkeale, Reens, Newcastle West, Ardagh, Carrigkerry and Athea.

From here they will travel onto Co Kerry and completing Stage Four that evening in Dingle.

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