IMRA Heads to Diamond Hill for the First Time
The Irish Mountain Running Association (IMRA) is heading west this September for a brand-new addition to the calendar: the Diamond Hill race, taking place on Saturday, September 6th at 6:30pm in Connemara National Park, Co. Galway.
This route comes in at 7.1km with 440 metres of climbing. While it’s marked as “easy” in terms of navigation, runners can expect a solid test on the ascent. The effort will be well worth it, with panoramic views over the Twelve Bens, rugged Connemara bogland, and the Atlantic coastline providing a backdrop that few races can match.
Race Director Siobhán Kennedy summed up the excitement:
“We’re really excited to be holding an IMRA event at Diamond Hill for the first time. It’s a fantastic course with incredible views.”
The race is capped at just 60 runners, with entry priced at €7 for seniors and €5 for juniors and over-65s. Registration closes on Friday, September 5th at 6pm, and with limited numbers, those interested are encouraged to book their spot early.
As with all IMRA events, runners are required to carry a mandatory kit, including a waterproof jacket, hat or buff, gloves, whistle, charged phone, and an emergency foil blanket or bivvy bag. Final kit requirements will be confirmed on the day depending on conditions.
Part of the IMRA Galway League
The Diamond Hill race also forms part of the IMRA Galway League, which has quickly established itself as a cornerstone of mountain running in the west. The league features a series of short, sharp races across the county, each showcasing Galway’s varied and dramatic landscapes.
From the woodland trails of Knockma to the rugged slopes of the Maamturks, the league highlights the diversity of running terrain on offer. The addition of Diamond Hill brings a fresh challenge and an iconic Connemara setting, strengthening the league’s reputation as one of the most scenic and competitive regional series in the IMRA calendar.
Getting There
The race starts and finishes in Connemara National Park, where parking is available. Organisers are encouraging carpooling to ease pressure on the car park, which is expected to be busy.
With its challenging course, incredible scenery, and place in the growing Galway League, the inaugural Diamond Hill race promises to be a highlight of the season. For runners, it’s a chance to take on a new route in one of Ireland’s most iconic landscapes, and for IMRA, it marks an exciting expansion westward.
Secure your entry : https://www.imra.ie/events/view/id/2738