As the craze of triathlon sweeps through every town and village in Ireland, Galway will stand above the rest next September as it hosts one of the most prestigious races in the international triathlon calendar.
Athletes from around the world will take over the city when the Ironman 70.3 camp rolls into town, taking advantage of the city’s proven reputation for sporting festivals.
Galway Triathlon Club will dispel notions of this event only being possible by bionic men and women by running an information evening on Tuesday November 23 at 7.30pm in the Salthill Hotel.
Potential athletes will hear from amateur athletes who have previously completed an Ironman 70.3, Ironman Galway race director Ruaidhri Geraghty, and will learn what it takes to complete a race of this calibre.
The half distance Ironman will see an estimated 2,000 people swim 1.9 kilometres in Galway Bay, cycle 90 kilometres through Connemara, and follow three laps through the city to form a 21 kilometre run.
The event is open to everyone, and is recognised as an achievable middle distance race for those with a good level of fitness.
Galway Triathlon Club will focus on Ironman Galway for interested club members running special events, and training sessions in the new year. It will also offer members the chance to follow organized training plans, and group training sessions.
Club membership will be available on the night at €65 for adults and €35 for students and the unwaged. This allows you to join in all club activities, and avail of discounted club gear.
Members can sign up for discounted swim lessons, track running sessions, and join the club on group bike and run sessions.
For more information on the club visit www.galwaytriathlonclub.com For information on Ironman 70.3 Galway visit www.ironmangalway.com