Ballinskelligs Inshore Rescue Calls for Cyclists to Support Lifesaving Service in Ring of Kerry Charity Cycle
- Mary Kate Byrne
- Jun 10
- 2 min read
Wednesday 10 June 2026
Ballinskelligs Inshore Rescue is appealing for cyclists to take part in the 2026 Ring of Kerry Charity Cycle and help raise vital funds for one of Ireland’s busiest volunteer maritime rescue services.
The renowned charity cycle, which takes place on Saturday 4 July, attracts thousands of participants each year to the 170-kilometre route around the Iveragh Peninsula. Organisers have confirmed Ballinskelligs Inshore Rescue as one of the event’s main beneficiary charities for 2026, providing the organisation with an important fundraising opportunity.
Based on the south-west coast of County Kerry, Ballinskelligs Inshore Rescue operates as a volunteer emergency response service and is a declared resource of the Irish Coast Guard. Its crews respond to incidents at sea and along the coastline, assisting people in difficulty in one of the country’s most scenic yet challenging maritime environments.
The charity is now encouraging supporters, local businesses, maritime stakeholders and members of the wider community to register for the Ring of Kerry Charity Cycle under the Ballinskelligs Inshore Rescue banner.
Funds raised through the event will support the continued operation of the rescue service, helping to maintain boats, rescue equipment, communications systems and the training required to keep volunteer crews operational throughout the year.
Since its establishment by local volunteers in response to a tragic drowning incident in Ballinskelligs Bay, the organisation has become a vital part of the emergency response network along the Kerry coastline. Like many community rescue services around Ireland, it relies heavily on fundraising and public support to sustain its activities.
The Ring of Kerry Charity Cycle has developed into one of Ireland’s largest charity sporting events, raising millions of euro for charities and community organisations over more than four decades. The event combines a challenging cycling experience with a significant fundraising effort for causes across Kerry and beyond.
For Ballinskelligs Inshore Rescue, participation in the 2026 cycle represents more than a sporting challenge. Every kilometre completed and every euro raised contributes directly to the service’s ability to answer future calls for assistance from mariners, water users and coastal communities.
The organisation is urging cyclists of all abilities to consider joining its fundraising team and helping to ensure that volunteer rescue crews remain equipped and ready to respond whenever the pager sounds.
Registration for the Ring of Kerry Charity Cycle is now open, with participants able to choose Ballinskelligs Inshore Rescue as their nominated charity when signing up for the event.
