Rás na mBan to get new stages and finish line for 2023

The seventh edition of international stage race Rás na mBan will take place in and around Kilkenny in September.

It is expected to draw cyclists from all over Europe, North and South America and Asia.

Two new stages and a new finish location will be included in this year's race programme which has been held in the Kilkenny area since 2016.

The wheels will be put in motion on Wednesday, 6 September, before a five-day schedule which will finish in Kilkenny city on the following Sunday as riders race for the Kilkenny County Council green jersey awarded to the best Irish-based competitor.

End point for the race will be an hour-long circuit of Kilkenny, starting on The Parade in front of Kilkenny Castle, which will follow a 2.1km time trial loop.

Organisers say team rosters will be revealed in due course but Rás na mBan has again attracted Olympic, World and European Championship riders to face the best of Irish talent.

The green jersey will be presented on the podium after each day throughout the race and there will be stage finishes in Callan, The Rower, Mountrath, as well as the city throughout 400km of racing.

Race director Valerie Considine said the move to Kilkenny seven years ago has been "overwhelmingly positive" for the event.

"The beautiful countryside and wonderful support from Kilkenny makes planning the route of a pillar event for cycling in Ireland an absolute pleasure," she said.

"The route we have assembled for 2023 will challenge the riders and offer and opportunity to further showcase the beauty of Kilkenny city and county."

Cathaoirleach of Kilkenny County Council, Michael Doyle, said they were "thrilled" to welcome the race back to the area.

"This international bike race for women has become a cherished event in our