Galway Bay Half Marathon 2010
The Galway Bay Half Marathon is a 13.1 mile run or walk starting and finishing along Galway's famous coastline on the edge of the City and Bay. The challenge of a 10km run is also on offer on the day.
The route for the Galway Bay Half Marathon is fast, flat, fun and very scenic. Following a survey of participants we decided to change the route, keeping the nice bits and eliminated the nasty bits. The 2010 course consists of a double circuit which keeps the splendour of Galway Bay in view all of the time.
The race starts at the entrance of Nimos Pier at the Claddagh and heads west along Gratten Road, turning for a full loop of South Park beside the entrance to the new Causeway where the full beauty of Galway Bay comes into view for the first time. A chance to warm up in the fast first mile, you will be quickly on your way towards the world famous Galway Promenade in Salthill.
All participants will stay on the road through the second and third miles, passing through the heart of Salthill, Blackrock and "The Spinnaker Hotel" before making a quick left turn alongside the caravan Park towards the sea. The course then turns east, hugging the shoreline and backing onto the Galway Golf Course towards the Blackrock Diving Boards. Mile 4 remerges onto the promenade and remains on the pathway towards the start/finish area and along the causeway for half a kilometer, bringing you right into the bay - a real treat.
Returning to the start area along Nimos Pier, the second lap will bring you through familiar territory once again.
The finish line at the entrance to South Park leads directly to the race marquee where well earned refreshments are available to greet the homecoming participants.
What better place to cool down and relax after your run than in Ireland's capital of festivals - Galway City. In keeping with the traditions of the Galway Bay 10, The 'Apres Run' party in the City's Latin Quarter on the night of the race. The Latin Quarter is where Galway comes alive and its medieval pedestrianised streets are the place to be on Saturday, 2rd October.
