Longford cyclists Shane Quinn and David Casserly competing in the Rás Táilteann

This edition is passing through county Longford on Saturday next, May 20.

The Stage 4 départ is to commence the longest stage of Rás Táilteann 2023 (176km) from Charlestown in County Mayo to Monaghan Town. The first half of the stage features the mainly flat N5 passing through Tulsk, Strokestown, Tarmonbarry and Longford.

The race then makes a directional change northwards in Longford heading for Granard via Ballinalee and onto the undulating roads through Co Cavan and Monaghan.

The passing through Longford of the 2023 edition has great significance for Longford and the local Longford Cycling Club as two of its riders are participating in this edition.

Local men David Casserly from Edgeworthstown and Shane Quinn from Killoe will participate as part of the newly formed Midlands Race Team.

They would be hoping for a great reception when they reach the Longford roads from their fellow county men and women.

The team was launched in the Spring of 2023 comprising riders from clubs which are affiliated and compete in 'The Midland Interclub League'.

The league comprises of the following clubs: Lakeside Wheelers Mullingar, Longford CRC, Shannonside CC Athlone, Lynx CC, Streamstown CC, Tullamore CC, Esker CC and Laois CC, all which hold a number of Cycle race events from April to August.

The main objective of the team is to offer a platform for Midland Interclub League riders to progress and compete in Stage races across Ireland.

Stuart Cox of Lakeside Wheelers, Colin Clavin of Streamstown CC and Graham O’Brien of Shannonside CC make up the remainder of the five man squad.

Great excitement is building in the Midland cycling community with a great support crew rallying around the riders.

Team manager Jim Maguire together with the support crew will be alongside to assist the riders in the 5 day 770km battle.
Participation in this event would not be possible if it was not for the support from several generous local contributors. Sponsors include OE Bikes Mullingar, Tullamore Cycle Centre, Buckley Cycle (Athlone) & Race Right Cycles (Laois).

Nolan Engineering Group in Fore Co. Westmeath generously sponsored Casual gear for the team.

O’Reilly & Sons Garage Longford and O’Brien Motors in Mullingar are both supplying support vehicles.

Finally, a special thanks to all the support from the Midland League community, affiliated clubs, family and friends who have kindly made donations to support the team on their endeavours.

Best of luck to all the competitors in the 2023 Rás Táilteann.