Swim, Cycle, Run: Thriving Triathlon Scene

The Western region has emerged as a thriving spot for endurance events such as Triathlons & Sprint Triathlons in the last number of years.  Notable events include Kilkee's Hell of the West, the Connemarathon and the West of Ireland Marathon Series. Many smaller distance road races are run throughout the year and sports clubs are active in the region.

Hell of the West is an annual summer event and the longest running triathlon in the country.  As the name suggests this is one of the biggest and toughest triathlons in the Triathlon Ireland schedule with upwards of 600 athletes taking part in a 1500 metre swim, 45km cycle and finishing with a hard 10km road race.

Connemarathon, or the Connemara International Marathon, comprises a Half Marathon, a Full Marathon and Ireland's only on-road Ultra Marathon (39.3 miles) all taking place on the one day.  2010's event takes place on April 11th 2010 and more information is available on the official website.

Organised by Run Ireland, the West of Ireland Marathon Series consists of 14 full distance, 26.2 mile marathons run in various locations in the West of Ireland. 

Located very conveniently for Western based runners and walkers, Limerick's annual Women's mini marathon attracts upwards of 4,000 runners and walkers every year to it's 7km route. It is one of the biggest mini marathons in the country and raises a huge amount of money for charity annually.

Up to date information and an events calandar for the region are available at runireland.com.