Running Races in Galway 2026: City, Coast and Connemara

Galway is one of the best counties in Ireland to race in. The city has a compact, buzzy race scene. Connemara has some of the most dramatic trail running in Europe. And the coast gives you backdrops that make suffering feel worthwhile.

Here's everything on the 2026 calendar — upcoming races, popular events, and what to know before you enter.

Upcoming races in Galway

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Popular Galway races

Galway City 10K — a perennial favourite. Flat, well-marked, draws a serious field. Competitive at the front but a good mix of club runners and first-timers throughout.

Galway Bay Half Marathon — seafront running along the prom and out toward Salthill. Reliable crowd support and a course that looks better than it performs (there are a couple of lumps in the second half).

Connemara Marathon and Half Marathon — among the most scenic races in Ireland. The roads are narrow, exposed, and beautiful in a way that makes you forget your legs hurt. Attracts runners from across Ireland and the UK — worth planning a weekend around.

When do Galway races happen?

Spring (March–May): Peak season. The Connemara Marathon runs in April. Galway City events pick up from March.
Summer (June–August): Club 5Ks and coastal events. Quieter for big races but good for local events.
Autumn (September–October): Galway Bay Half and several club events across the county.

Road vs trail in Galway

Connemara trail racing is underrated — particularly if you've only raced on road. The terrain is demanding, the views are worth it, and events are well-organised. Poles are allowed in most longer trail events. Waterproof jacket mandatory, and genuinely needed.

Planning your trip

Accommodation: Book early for Connemara weekends. Clifden and Oughterard fill up months in advance for the big spring events. Galway city is easier but pricier.

Club races: Galway City Harriers and Craughwell AC run events throughout the year that won't always appear on the main listing sites. Worth a follow on social.

More Irish racing

Browse all upcoming races in Ireland → — updated daily.