Entry 22587

HER Outdoors Week 2024 kicked off with enthusiasm and energy on Monday, bringing together women from diverse backgrounds for a week dedicated to exploring nature and engaging in physical activity. The event, designed to encourage women to step outside and embrace the great outdoors, features a variety of activities, with IMRA trail runs being a highlight.

The first trail run of the week was held in Galway, where participants took on a 4km route between Cappagh Park and Barna Woods. This run aimed to introduce newcomers to the world of trail running and provide a welcoming environment for all fitness levels. The event proved to be a resounding success, with runners new and old delighted with how the evening played out. 

Run Republic had the opportunity to speak with Owen Harney from Galway Trail Running AC, who shared insights about the event and the feedback from participants. “From my own perspective, chatting to people after, it seems to have gone very well,” Owen noted. “The group really enjoyed the run. They really appreciated the easy-pace and relaxed way to try out something new.”

Participants were enthusiastic about the experience, with some already expressing a desire to return to the trails more often. “One runner said she'll definitely be back to run those trails more often,” Owen revealed. “They all asked to join our GTR AC WhatsApp group to hopefully join some more trail runs soon.”

The interest in IMRA events was clear, with several attendees inquiring about how the events work and their accessibility for new trail runners. Owen highlighted a particularly interesting observation from a new runner who appreciated the heightened awareness required when trail running, compared to the more automatic nature of running on roads or footpaths.

“The level of interest was great,” Owen added. It is wonderful to see so many women excited about trying something new and engaging with the trail running community, and this is what HER Outdoors is truly all about.

HER Outdoors Week continues to build momentum with the next trail run scheduled for this evening, August 14th, in Mote Park, Co. Roscommon. This 5km route promises to continue the enthusiasm generated by Monday’s Galway event, offering more opportunities for women to connect with nature and challenge themselves.

Featured Image: Courtesy of Galway Trail Running AC