In a year where we could have actually run a race ON the lake, we get to have another race around it.  A few years ago, there were hardly any races around and they were all big events to look forward to.  Nowdays there's a new race cropping up every weekend, and in some ways it's detracting from road racing in my eyes (just my own opinion) in that each race has less participants and less of a unique feel. 

There is no doubt that the best races  are the Club ones.  They have great value, quality, culture and prestige and an edge of history to them.   They are also spaced well enough apart to base your running year around them.  There is also the good feeling to know that you are supporting a great charity that is local community sport.

Loughrea club race is the grandaddy of them all, having been in operation for many many years in various guises.  It is by far the most prestigous of the Galway races by any measure – formally having been a BUPA Great Ireland run and having hosted athletes such as Sonia O'Sullivan and Paula Radcliffe.   In fact, if you look at the record books you will see that Sonia's 1999 time is still the world record for 5 miles AND 8k – not too many races can boast that!

They have continued to innovate and keep things fresh and anyone who ran their 10k route last year will agree that it's a superior course.

The kids race has to be moentioned – it's one of the biggest kids races in the country!

So set your sights on Loughrea for the 25th September – give your support to our near neighbors and enjoy a fantastic event in the process.  For more details visist http://www.loughreaathleticclub.com/.   See you there!