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Rás Mumhan returns this Easter weekend, and following the success of the 2024 edition, the Dornan Rás Mumhan opens with the Team Time Trial. The race committee’s commitment to introducing new challenges each year is evident with the reintroduction of the iconic climb in South Kerry, Cuam an Aispig, and a new stage finish in the village of Portmagee. The route from Killarney via Beallach Oisin will be crucial for team managers, as the prevailing southerly winds and open coastal exposure could disrupt even the best-laid plans the panorama of the region will be of little interest to the riders, but it will certainly provide a backdrop that is rarely experienced.

The opening Team Time Trial will be a strategic game of poker, with squads possibly hesitant to reveal their strengths too early, given the four demanding stages that follow. The coveted yellow jersey, while prestigious, can attract unwanted attention and may deter favourites from taking it on too soon. The first road race stage to Knocknagoshel, where last year’s winner, George Kimber of Spirit Racing Team, made his mark, promises to be a tough, lumpy challenge.

Stage 3 to the Kerryman’s Table above Millstreet in North Cork will test those who haven’t fully recovered from the previous day’s efforts in Portmagee. The fast and challenging start will highlight the strength and depth of the teams supporting their General Classification (GC) contenders.

Last year’s runner-up, Dom Jackson of Foran CT, who went on to win the 2024 Rás Tailteann, is determined to add Rás Mumhan to his palmarès. The ever-present Daire Feeley, winner of the 2022 Rás Tailteann, will undoubtedly have his own plans for the race. Domestically, riders like Con Scully of Team Dan Morrissey Pissei, recent winner of the Bobby Power Classic, and Ruairi Byrne of UCD, winner of the Des Hanlon, are expected to bring the necessary firepower.

The return of the West Frisia team from the Netherlands, along with a Lithuanian squad and several British teams, adds an international flair to the competition. Liam Crowley, showing good form with Austrian Team Vorarlberg, aims to improve on his top ten finish in the 2024 edition. The presence of junior provincial squads, with stages averaging 120km, will showcase emerging talent and could reveal the next generation of riders.

Speaking ahead of the race, Race Director John Breen said, “Rás Mumhan has long been a showcase for both emerging talent and seasoned riders. It takes pride in being a platform for the best in the world of cycling. The 2025 edition will once again help identify the future stars of the sport, making it an exciting time for Irish cycling.”

The final stage in the theatre that is Killorglin, the traditional finish for this annual race, will likely determine the general classification. As we anticipate the spectacle that is Dornan Rás Mumhan 2025, we can only imagine the thrilling battles and emerging stars that will define this year’s race.

With a roster of international teams, the plentiful ingredients needed to create the fireworks on the roads is nearly complete. The committee is very much looking forward to seeing the annual crowds lining the roads in supporting our athletes. Roll on Dornan Ras Mumhan it can’t come quick enough.

The full race manual, including stages and times is available HERE. Results from the weekend will be published HERE.