The Ring of Kerry Charity Cycle has reached another remarkable milestone, with over €23 million raised for charitable causes since the event began in 1982. The 2026 event continued this incredible legacy, raising an outstanding €1,060,133 to support charities and community organisations across Ireland.
Now in its 44th year, the Ring of Kerry Charity Cycle remains one of Ireland’s most iconic charity cycling events, bringing together thousands of cyclists, volunteers and supporters, all united by a shared commitment to making a difference.
On Saturday, 4th July 2026, approximately 3,800 cyclists took on the spectacular 170km Ring of Kerry route, starting and finishing in Killarney. Their dedication, generosity and fundraising efforts have once again demonstrated the extraordinary community spirit at the heart of this much-loved event.
Supporting 40 Charities and Community Organisations
The funds raised during the 2026 Ring of Kerry Charity Cycle were officially presented at a special cheque presentation evening held at the Great Southern Killarney on Thursday, 22nd October 2026.
This year’s fundraising efforts benefited 40 charities and community organisations, including six main beneficiary charities and seven Tier 2 charities.
The six main beneficiary charities for 2026 were:
- Ballinskelligs Inshore Rescue
- Breakthrough Cancer Research
- Brú Columbanus
- Down Syndrome Kerry
- Jack and Jill Children’s Foundation
- Kerry Hospice Foundation
Seven Tier 2 charities also received support, including Barnardos, Cycle Against Suicide, Dillon Quirke Foundation, Enable Ireland Kerry, Irish Red Cross Tralee, Recovery Haven Cancer Support House Kerry and Social Action Group Rathmore.
These organisations provide essential services across areas including healthcare, cancer research, disability support, children’s services, emergency rescue and community wellbeing.
44 Years of Cycling for a Great Cause
What began in 1982 as a local fundraising initiative has grown into one of Ireland’s most recognised charity cycling events.
Over the past 44 years, generations of cyclists have taken on the challenge of the Ring of Kerry, helping to raise more than €23 million for deserving causes.
Reflecting on another successful year, Ring of Kerry Charity Cycle PRO Cathal Walshe praised the continued generosity and dedication of everyone involved, describing the fundraising achievement as further evidence of the event’s enduring charitable impact.
The 2026 achievement is a testament to the incredible commitment of cyclists, volunteers, sponsors, local communities and everyone who supports the event year after year.
A Heartfelt Thank You to Everyone Involved
The Ring of Kerry Charity Cycle is about so much more than completing 170 kilometres. It is about people coming together, supporting one another and making a meaningful difference in the lives of others.
To every cyclist who took part, every volunteer who generously gave their time, every sponsor and business that supported the event, and every individual who made a donation — thank you.
Your generosity and dedication have helped make the 2026 Ring of Kerry Charity Cycle another tremendous success.
As we celebrate this remarkable fundraising milestone, we look forward to continuing this proud tradition and making an even greater difference in the years ahead.
Together, we cycle. Together, we make a difference.
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