Race Director, Alice Sherratt is pleased to announce that Mel Sutcliffe, in partnership with Quanta Capital, has once again committed to sponsor the Junior Tour of Ireland 2025.

Sutcliffe, a lifelong supporter of Irish cycling, has played a vital role in sustaining the Junior Tour over the past 23 years. A former competitor himself, Sutcliffe won the Kanturk to Clonakilty stage in 1990 and finished fourth overall. He went on to represent Ireland at both junior and senior levels before retiring from competitive cycling in 1999 after completing his tenth Rás Tailteann. He also holds the Coast to Coast record from Dublin to Galway — a distance of 138 miles — completed in a time of 5 hours, 30 minutes, and 28 seconds.

The Junior Tour is one of Ireland’s most historically significant cycling events. Many of the riders who compete in the Tour go on to represent their countries at elite levels, progressing to professional teams and even the Tour De France. The community also benefits as the event brings together hundreds of visitors to host towns each year, creating a positive impact on local businesses and tourism, enhancing goodwill and strong local relationships. The Junior Tour has long served as a launchpad for future champions. Alumni include Bradley Wiggins, Geraint Thomas, Dan Martin, Nicolas Roche, Sam Bennett, Ian Stannard, and Luke Rowe, all of whom went on to enjoy successful professional careers after showcasing their talent in this prestigious youth race.

Speaking ahead of the 2025 tour, Mel shared:-

“The Junior Tour of Ireland is more than just a race — it’s a rare and life-changing opportunity for young cyclists. It creates a level playing field where they can prove themselves, compete at a high level, and dream bigger. Standing on the start line of a race like the Junior Tour can transform a young athlete’s outlook — it tells them they belong in the sport, and that their talent and hard work truly matter”

Mel’s generous support will enable the Junior Tour to thrive in 2025, the only question now is who will lift the JJ McCormack Cup?