Trip to Tipp fundraiser returns this June, as event icon bids farewell
Billy Shanahan will organise the Trip to Tipp for the final time this year
For 30 years, Thurles man Billy Shanahan has been at the heart of one of Tipperary’s most enduring community fundraising events, as Trip to Tipp and the Mid Tipp Challenge return on Saturday the June 27 in Thurles in support of Vision Ireland, marking Billy’s final year organising the event after three decades of leadership.
What began as a small local cycling challenge has grown into one of the county’s most loved community days, bringing together cyclists, runners, walkers, families and supporters from across Tipperary and beyond.
Trip to Tipp and the Mid Tipp Challenge have become a shared expression of community spirit, inclusion and remembrance, powered entirely by volunteers and local support.
This year also marks the first-ever running of the Mid Tipp Challenge, a new addition organised by Jim Sweeney that organisers hope will continue long into the future.
Designed to encourage even broader participation from walkers, runners and families, the challenge reflects the event’s continued growth and commitment to inclusion and community involvement.
The event has always been deeply rooted in family.
Billy’s daughter, Lorraine Shanahan, was at the heart of Trip to Tipp from the very beginning, playing a central role in its organisation and growth.
Her passing in 2015 was deeply felt across the community, but her influence continues to shape the spirit of the day.
“Her passing left a space that can never be filled,” says her sister Katriona.
“But her spirit and passion live on in every part of Trip to Tipp. We take part not just for the challenge, but to honour her legacy and support a charity she believed in so deeply.”
The event has raised more than €146,000 for Vision Ireland over the past decade, with €31,591 raised in 2025 marking a standout result and renewed community momentum.
These funds help deliver essential services including emotional and wellbeing support, hospital-based Eye Clinic Liaison Officers, assistive technology training, community rehabilitation and education programmes that enable independence and confidence.
Billy Shanahan, who is blind himself, has led the event since its inception and is widely respected across Thurles and Tipperary.
His three-decade commitment has transformed a local initiative into a lasting community tradition built on participation, generosity and shared purpose.
“This event has always been about people coming together and proving that sight loss does not define what someone can achieve,” says Jim Sweeney, organiser of the inaugural Mid Tipp Challenge 5km.
“This year carries extra meaning. It’s about celebrating everything Billy has given over 30 years and making sure his final year leading the event is the biggest and most memorable yet.”
Sweeney has worked to establish the Mid Tipp Challenge as a new and inclusive part of the day’s activities, helping ensure the event remains open and welcoming to people of all ages and abilities.
Adding to the occasion this year will be the attendance of legendary Irish cyclist Sean Kelly, widely regarded as one of the greatest cyclists of his generation and one of Ireland’s most iconic sporting figures.
The Carrick-on-Suir native enjoyed an extraordinary international career, winning multiple major Classics titles and inspiring generations of Irish cyclists. His presence is expected to further add to the sense of occasion surrounding Billy Shanahan’s final year leading the event.
Participants in the cycling event will also compete for a range of prizes on the day, adding an extra layer of excitement to what is already one of Tipperary’s most anticipated community events.
Following the cycle and run, a social function and refreshments will take place at Thurles Sarsfields GAA Club, giving participants, volunteers and supporters an opportunity to celebrate together and mark Billy Shanahan’s extraordinary contribution over the past 30 years.
Organisers say the continued success of Trip to Tipp and the Mid Tipp Challenge is only possible because of the commitment of local volunteers, schools, businesses and families who return year after year.
Funds raised go directly to Vision Ireland, helping thousands of people nationwide access practical, emotional and educational supports that promote independence and quality of life.
As preparations continue, organisers are encouraging the public to come out in force for what promises to be a landmark celebration of community spirit, inclusion and Billy Shanahan’s remarkable 30-year legacy.
With the inaugural Mid Tipp Challenge 5km, prizes on the day, post-event celebrations and the presence of Sean Kelly, organisers hope to make Billy’s final year at the helm the biggest Trip to Tipp yet.