Munster Rugby announce partnership in support of Down syndrome

MUNSTER Rugby has announced its partnership with a popular cycling event in a bid to raise “much-needed funds” for a national down syndrome charity.

With a year-long partnership with Down Syndrome Ireland (DSI) and the 600 km charity cycle, Tour de Munster, the rugby team aims to help raise vital funds for DSI’s Munster branches.

Each year, the funds raised as a result of the Tour de Munster make a huge difference in enabling DSI Munster branches to provide a range of support and services to their members.

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With an ‘all-through-life’ support, DSI supports children and adults with Down syndrome and their families, from speech and language therapy to occupational therapy.

For their 23rd edition, the four-day charity cycle, Tour De Munster, will see about 120 cyclists embark on a journey to raise awareness around the region from August 10 to 13.

Over the years, the initiative has raised €4 million for DSI Munster branches.

Speaking of their partnership with Munster Rugby, CEO of DSI, Barry Sheridan, said the partnership will further highlight and support Down Syndrome Ireland’s vital services by spreading awareness and raising much-needed funds.

"Without the backing of organisations like Munster Rugby and the many businesses who have supported DSI and the Tour for the past 23 years, it would not be possible. This support, along with the support of the general public goes a very long way in allowing our branches to continue to provide essential services to those living with Down syndrome and their families," said Mr Sheridan.

Paul Sheridan, who established Tour de Munster, commented: “Our organisations are aligned in our passion for what we do and we very much look forward to working with Munster Rugby to raise awareness and funds for the wonderful members of our DSI Munster Branches who rely so heavily on the services they access through their branches.”

Claire Cooke, Munster Rugby Corporate Social Responsibility Project Manager, Claire Cooke, added they were delighted to support such a worthy cause. “Tour de Munster is a long-standing and successful event that has created huge awareness and raised vital funds for Down Syndrome Ireland.”

Kieran Dooley of Down Syndrome Clare, concluded: “We are very excited to join forces with Munster Rugby as their charity partner and there is certainly a great buzz about the partnership. To have their backing is a brilliant boost and drives us on even more ahead of this year’s Tour de Munster. A fantastic community has been created with Tour de Munster and the six Munster branches of DSI, and we look forward to sharing the journey with Munster Rugby this year.”

Tour de Munster will kick off from Cork City on Thursday, August 10 and will take place over four days around Munster’s six counties.