The Inis Iron Meáin is an annual event on Inis Meáin, involving an exciting day full of running and socializing.
This event happens every year, usually on the Saturday of the bank holiday weekend. This year, it is taking place on Saturday, May 2. It was established in 2004 by the principal of Coláiste Naomh Eoin, Lorcan O’Connell. He saw an opportunity to attract more individuals to come to the Island to share a new experience together and socialize.
On the day, there are three races available to participate in – the 5km, 10km and the 12km. The 5km and 10km races take place on the roads on the island. However, the 12km race stetches all the way to the beach. It is entirely up to you weather you decide to run, jog or walk the races.
Before you begin the run, there are many steps that you must follow to ensure that the event runs smoothly. When the participants arrives off the morning ferry, they will be guided to Halla Naomh Eoin where they will receive a t-shirt with their race number on it. There will also be refreshments to prepare for the race. This process is very difficult because roughly 500 people travel to compete in the Inis Iron Meain every year.
During the race, there are water stations posted at every few kilometres to keep the runners hydrated throughout the race. These water stations are essential for the wellbeing of the runners. After every runner has finished the race and returned to the school, they will be greeted with plenty of food such as burgers and hotdogs to keep them satisfied. They will also have many other refreshments to please them.
The prizes will then be handed out to each girl and boy winner of each distance. The prizes are usually One4all vouchers worth 100 euro, so the races are very competitive.
Once the runners have finished their food, they will head up to the pub for live music where they can drink and chat to their families and friends. The pub has a brilliant atmosphere on the day, and it is a wonderful place for tourists to chill out and have fun.
On the day, participants are usually greeted by a special guest. This guest is commonly quite famous in Ireland. Bundee Aki was the special guest at last year’s Inis Iron Meain. The special guest is usually announced a week or two in advance of the Inis Iron Meain. The Inis Iron Meain is currently searching for this year’s guest of honour, if you would like to join please get in contact.
The Inis Iron Meain is a great opportunity to socialize with friends and family and to have fun. On top of this, you will experience the beauty of the Island.
Inis Meain is truly one of Ireland’s most precious gems with its spectacular landscape of rural old Galway. Every road you run on this day you will be met with breathtaking views that you just won’t be able to get enough of.
