The inaugural Roundstone Bay 8K took place on May 21st in this very scenic seaside village on the west coast of Connemara. Under cloudy skies a good mixture of local and visiting runners took on the figure of eight course, which began opposite the Church of Ireland and then headed west passing by historic Errisbeg House. It wasn’t long before the heavens opened and anyone who had any ideas of finishing the race without breaking into a sweat soon had a lot more moisture to deal with!

After leaving Errisbeg House in the distance, the runners then turned onto the Ervallagh Road and the course followed some of the most stunnning scenery alongside the Atlantic Ocean and Ervallagh Harbour. From here the route briefly rejoined the Roundstone – Ballyconneely Road before diverting down towards the 5km marker at Gurteen Beach. A quick loop around and then a straight fast run back into the village with the wind at their backs.

After 31mins and 6 seconds, Damien Ridge of Cashel was first to cross the line. He was closely followed by Damien Joyce from Clifden and in third place was Shannon-based Michael Valelly.

The first female home was Eimear King of Roundstone, with Mary Faherty in second place, and another local lady Aine Conneely in 3rd.

The presentations of prizes took place in Roundstone Community Centre where teas, coffee and refreshments were also served up to the race participants as a fine antidote to the inclement weather. All in all, a good day was had by everyone and the fun progressed into the evening with the footage of Leinster’s European Cup win further raising the spirits. A great night then was rounded off with the Apres-Run party taking place in The Shamrock where crowds were entertained by the excellent Peter Byrne and the Glass Onion Band. A fantastic end to a fantastic day.

Results:

MALE 1st Damien Ridge 31.06

2nd Damien Joyce 32.32

3rd Michael Valelly 32.93

1st Over 40 Jim Vaughan 36.20

1st Over 50 Paul Gibbons 34.36

1st Over 60 Martin McEvilly 33.08

FEMALE 1st Eimear King 36.04

2nd Mary Faherty 36.38

3rd Aine Conneely 41.30

1st Over 40 Sue Britton 42.47

1st Over 50 N/A

1st Over 60 Mary Doyle 43.13