First stage of Rás na mBan gets underway in Kilkenny today

The first stage in the Rás na mBan cycle race around county Kilkenny gets underway later.

The riders will set out from the Springhill Court hotel this afternoon just after 4.30pm.

More than 120 cyclists are taking part with teams from Ireland, Great Britain, France, Sweden, the Isle of Man, the Netherlands, Norway, Australia and United Arab Emirates.

Declan Quigley says some of the biggest names in women’s cycling are involved this year.