Streets of Galway 8k Report
The largest entry field ever raced the 39th edition of the Blackrock Health Galway Clinic Streets of Galway 8k, which took place in glorious conditions last Saturday evening. A carnival atmosphere was in evidence on the city streets as thousands of athletes raced past local landmarks, cheered on by an estimated 5,000 spectators. It was an event where many records were broken – it being largest entry of 3,500 athletes in the 39 year history of the event, boasting the highest number of completions with almost 3,000 finishers and a new Women’s Course Record run by US athlete Emily Sisson – winning in a time of 24:56 – beating the previous record which stood for 24 years by more than 1 minute. The Race was officially started by Hildegarde Naughton TD, who, on behalf of the city and community, welcomed this annual event to Galway, commenting that she looked forward to an even bigger and better event at the 40th edition in 2026.
In near-perfect running conditions, the Men’s race was a thrilling affair, as six athletes broke away early on and raced together till the halfway mark. At that stage, the trio of Donore's John Travers, Craughwell duo William Fitzgerald and Jamie Fallon took the race on, and a titanic battle ensued on the Prom. Fitzgerald made a couple of swift attacks, but the wily John Travers hung on and opened a gap at 6k never to be relinquished, to win in a fast time of 23:26, followed by the Craughwell duo William Fitzgerald & Jamie Fallon who finished 2nd and 3rd with times of 23:36 & 23:47 respectively. The Women’s race featured a dominant performance by international athlete Emily Sisson (USA), now based in Waterford, in a Course Record time of 24:56, followed by Mary Mulhaire (Portlaoise) 27:43 and a great run from local athlete Maebh Brannigan (Galway City Harriers) in 28:44.
In his concluding remarks, Race Director Brian Bruton thanked the City of Galway, local civic and civil services, Galway City Harriers members and volunteers, sponsors, the 3,500 participating athletes and the residents of Galway for contributing to such an amazingly successful, vibrant, inclusive sporting event. For a full listing of category winners, participants and more information on Galway City Harriers Athletics Club, please visit www.galwaycityharriers.ie
European U20 Championships
Sean Doggett of Athenry AC enjoyed a superb European U20 Championships in Finland last week. The talented 400m athlete made it through the heats and semi-finals, making a star-studded final where he placed a fine seventh overall in 47.16. Irish athlete Conor Kelly made history by winning the event with a storming run.
Cover Photo of Streets of Galway Women's Winners: L-R: Brian Bruton, Streets of Galway Race Director, Rachel Coen, Blackrock Health, Galway Clinic, Mary Mulhaire, Portlaoise, Emily Sisson, USA, Maebh Brannigan, Galway City Harriers & Alan Cheevers, Galway City Deputy Mayor. Photographer: Anne Lyng, Athenry Photography.
