The third Sean Kelly Tour of Waterford and what is sure to be one of the most colourful and spectacular events in Waterford's 2009 sporting calendar is almost upon us, the Tour takes place this Sunday August 30th. As of last Friday (21st August) when entries officially closed, a massive 2000 participants had signed up for this great event. Of those entered almost every county in Ireland is represented in particular Waterford, Tipperary, Kilkenny, Dublin, Wexford, Kerry, Clare, Kilkenny and Galway. This year has also seen a huge increase in overseas entry particularly from our near neighbours in the UK but also from a number of European countries as well as the US and Canada. This huge increase in the popularity of the Tour is due to the hard work and dedication of the Sean Kelly Tour Committee which consists of representatives of Waterford County Council, Waterford Sports Partnership, County Waterford Community Forum, eight local cycling clubs and of course the one and only Sean Kelly.

Volunteers and the Communities involved

One of the most heartening aspects of this event has been to see that the age of volunteerism is not a thing of the past, as some people would suggest. The organisers of the tour have seen volunteers from all across the county step up to the mark from all walks of life including staff from the council and Waterford Sports Partnership, members of cycling clubs and particularly members of local community groups and individuals from all corners of the county from Dungarvan, Lemybrien, Kilrossanty, Rathgormack, Ballymacarbry, Cappoquin, Lismore and all areas in between as well as help from our near neighbours in East Cork and South Tipp. Considering we will need upwards of 200 volunteers on the day, we are still looking for people who are willing to sacrifice just some of their time on either Saturday 29th or Sunday 30th August. Why not mention it to your club, team, community organisation, friends or family and let's all get behind 'The Sean Kelly'. Anyone wishing to volunteer can contact Peter Jones on (058)21191.

Waterford County Council would like to draw all road users attention to the fact that the Sean Kelly Tour is a leisure cycle which will be taking place over the entire day of Sunday 30th August. Roads will remain open at all times and all cyclists must obey the rules of the road however we would ask all road users and particularly motorists to be extra vigilant for cyclists on the day.

Check out www.theseankellytour.com or contact 058-21104 for more details and event updates.