Gaelforce West has always been the one to conquer and to master. It is challenging, unique and the magnificent landscape through which you travel will wow you at every turn.

67km course spanning two counties

The route takes you from Glassilaun beach in Co Galway to the heritage town of Westport, Co Mayo. The terrain includes mountain scree, bogland, trails, sealed roads and the majestic waters of Killary Fjord. Connemara, Killary Fjord, Croagh Patrick and Westport are only some of the highlights of a route that provides a combination of natural challenges and breathtaking views that will test and delight you, regardless of your fitness level or your focus.

Stage 1: Beach, trail and road run
Start line at Glassilaun beach in Connemara. Continue by road around Little Killary Harbour and then over the hillside into Killary Fjord. Make your way along the old Famine greenway, muddy and uneven underfoot, to the shore below Killary Adventure Centre and the kayak transition area. 13km

 Stage 2: Kayaking across Killary Harbour

Kayak from the southern shore of Killary Fjord to its northern shore in a two-man sit-on-top with the next competitor  to you. 1km

 Stage 3: Trail and road run

Disembarking onto the foothills of Mweelrea, with tufted long grass and boggy holes underfoot. Next on to  a laneway and eventually a narrow road leading you to Delphi Mountain Resort. 3.5km

 Stage 4: Cycling

Leaving the Delphi valley and heading for Drummin, spectacular hills to climb and extreme care needed on the downhills. Expect severe corners and narrow country roads. On to a gradual climb up to the back of Croagh Patrick and the transition area. The final 2km of this section is on a loose-stoned and rough forestry track. Punctures possible on a road bike. 33.5km

 Stage 5: Mountain run/hike

Croagh Patrick. Stay on the path and take care on the top section of this mountain as it has a lot of loose stones. If you do not reach the transition here by 2.00pm, you will not be allowed to ascend the mountain and you will be short coursed back to Westport. 4.5km

Stage 6: Cycling and final run
Always obey the rules of the road. Sealed road first and then onto a very rough off-road trail section that is 2 km long. Expect to carry road bikes over parts of this section. Coming off this there is a steep downhill section on a narrow road. Please take care on this section and watch out for traffic and fellow competitors.
You will cycle on to Westport quay where you will drop you bike and run through Westport House to the finish line in Westport Town Centre.  12km

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