As is traditional, this year's Christmas athletics calendar boasts some of Galway’s most popular races taking place over the festive period.
First up is the Goal Mile, which takes place on Christmas Day from 10 am at Dangan Track in NUI Galway’s sports grounds. Galway is just one of 120 venues throughout Ireland to host the Goal Mile which is now in its 35th year.
One of the country’s largest and longest-running annual fundraising events, the event is suitable for people of all ages and fitness by running, jogging or walking a mile and contributing to Goal on the day with proceeds going to the Goal's continued work in the developing world.
Fields of Athenry 10km
Next up is another popular run, the 15th Fields of Athenry 10km which takes place on St Stephen’s Day at 11am.
Over the last number of years this event, hosted by Athenry AC, has become one of the leading road races in the country, and this year’s edition is likely to be see the biggest entry yet.
The race will be held on its traditional fast and flat 10k route, finishing under the medieval arch in Athenry. This year’s event is expected to attract some 1,500 entrants, including many of the country’s top road runners. Entry is still available online, but closes this week with no entries on the day.
Allianz Resolution Run 2017
The Resolution Run is a 5K road-race that takes place New Year’s Day at 12 noon in Galway city centre.
The course starts at Nimmos Pier and finishes at the Spanish Arch, passing the canals, cathedral, Shop street, Eyre Square and most of the city's famous landmarks along the way. The race, which is AAI certified, starts at 12 noon at Nimmos Pier by Claddagh Hall.
Race number pick up is in Dominican Hall Claddagh between 10.15am and 11.45am on the morning of the race. Entries cost €18 on-line. There will be some entries available on the day at the rate of €20 and €15 for juveniles 14-17, but the race is limited to 500 entries. All entrants will receive a souvenir race towel, refreshments post-race and an official chip time.
