Big crowds expected in Bective for the conclusion of the Rás Tailteann
All are welcome to gather in Bective to witness the finale of the Rás Tailteann
This Sunday, locals in Meath can cheer on and support some of the finest cyclists from around the world, as the winner of this year’s Rás Tailteann will be determined right in the Boyne Valley. Bective will be the finishing point for the 69th edition of the Rás Tailteann, which will take place from Wednesday, May 22nd to Sunday, May 26th.
Three finishing laps of a 14.1km spectator-friendly circuit will allow spectators a chance to see the competition during a one-hour finale. Visitors will be able to witness the exciting conclusion to the Rás, near the House of Art, including the prize-giving ceremony at the eye-catching surroundings of Bective Stud, Apartments, and Tearooms, after taking in some of the many attractions in the Boyne Valley.
On Sunday 26th May, spectators will line the streets of towns and villages throughout County Meath to see the Rás make its way from Maynooth through Dunboyne, Ratoath, Ashbourne, Stamullen, Julianstown, and onto the coast at Laytown, before swinging back inland via Donore, Garlow Cross and finishing at Bective Stud on the banks of the River Boyne. At Bective, there will be parking and refreshments available and spectators can watch the riders do three laps of the final circuit. There are two category three climbs along the way before a super-fast circuit awaits in Bective for this year's final hour of racing, where the 2024 Rás Tailteann winner will get their hands on the famous George Plant trophy.
Everyone is welcome to line out at Bective on the Trim-Navan road in County Meath to welcome and cheer on the cyclists on Sunday 26th May. The afternoon will present a great spectacle for people to come and view the concluding stages of this famous race.
Within Bective Stud itself, there will be representatives from numerous Meath inter-county teams in attendance including the Meath seniors, the Meath U20s, and the Ladies football and Camogie teams. Family Entertainment will run from 12 noon -5pm including bouncy castles, face painting, a Fire performer, hula hooper, and a stiltwalker. Parking will be available in the paddocks at Bective Stud. Food and refreshments will be available to purchase. Live Coverage of the Ras on the Big Screen. The roads will be closed from 1.30 pm – 5.00 pm so ensure you arrive before 1.30 pm.
Kieran Kehoe, Chief Executive of Meath County Council commented “We are really excited to welcome the 69th edition of the Rás Tailteann to the Boyne Valley and support the final stage in Meath. The Boyne Valley is known for its stunning landscape so it will be a fitting environment for the final stage of the Rás. We look forward to welcoming cyclists and spectators to towns and villages right across Meath on Sunday 26th May for what will be a fantastic event.”