Western Way 30K & Western Way Ultra

Take on the stunning Western Way route from Maam to Leenane in Co. Galway. This challenging course features difficult terrain, perfect for runners looking for a true test of endurance while enjoying some of Ireland’s most scenic landscapes. Organised by the Irish Mountain Running Association (IMRA). Suitable for experienced trail runners.

• Western Way Ultra starts at 08:00
• Western Way 30K starts at 10:00 - All 30K runners need to meet in Leenane at 9:00 am

The Western Way 30K and Western Way Ultra take place on the same day, following routes based on the Western Way.

Western Way 30K - Event Details

Mandatory Kit

Level C – Advanced

• Waterproof jacket with integrated hood and taped seams
• Hat or buff
• Gloves
• Whistle
• Charged mobile phone with emergency number stored
• Foil blanket, bivvy bag or equivalent
• Waterproof full-leg cover
• Means to carry a minimum of 500 mL water
• Emergency food
• Map of route/area
• Compass

All runners must bring the above items to the race. The actual kit to be carried during the race will be finalised on the day, depending on conditions, and clearly advised at Registration.

You should also have the means to carry all the kit in case it is required.

Failure to have the required items may lead to you being denied entry to the race or disqualification. Random checks may be carried out.

Route Description

The race follows The Western Way, from Maum to Leenane. A route map is available via Plotaroute.

Getting There

All runners need to meet in Leenane at 9:00 am to be bussed to the start line.
The finish is in Leenane. Leenaun Parking.

Prizegiving

Prizegiving for the race and the Galway 2026 League will take place after the race at the Leenane Hotel. Lovely hot food will be served. Craic will be mighty. All welcome!

Western Way Ultra - Event Details

Mandatory Kit

Level C – Advanced

• Waterproof jacket with integrated hood and taped seams
• Hat or buff
• Gloves
• Whistle
• Charged mobile phone with emergency number stored
• Foil blanket, bivvy bag or equivalent
• Waterproof full-leg cover
• Means to carry a minimum of 500 mL water
• Emergency food
• Map of route/area
• Compass

All runners must bring the above items to the race. The actual kit to be carried during the race will be finalised on the day, depending on conditions, and clearly advised at Registration.

You should also have the means to carry all the kit in case it is required.

Failure to have the required items may lead to you being denied entry to the race or disqualification. Random checks may be carried out.

Route Description

The route will start and finish in Leenane.

The Ultra will be an out-and-back route on the Western Way from Leenane to Maum, with one or more diversions to increase elevation and distance. These diversions are TBC.

Getting There

The event starts and finishes at Leenaun. Parking in Leenane.

Organisers' Instructions

This is the final race in the Irish Ultra Championships.
There will be a cap of 50 places due to permit restrictions.
Entries open: Monday 5 October at 9:00 pm
Entries close: Saturday 7 November at 6:00 pm

Prizegiving

Prizegiving for the race and the Galway 2026 League will take place after the race at the Leenane Hotel. Lovely hot food will be served. Craic will be mighty. All welcome!

At a Glance

Both events: Saturday 14 November 2026 · Leenane, Co. Galway · Prizegiving at the Leenane Hotel