Ian Egan's running journey across the picturesque county of Galway is a story of unyielding love for the City of the Tribes and for the sport he treasures. Over the years, he has traversed the city and countryside, competing in races of various distances and experiencing the evolution of the running scene firsthand.
In Galway City, Ian has participated in numerous 5k races, each with its unique charm. From Westside to Tuam Road, Southpark, and Deochuisce, these races have been a constant in his running calendar. One significant memory is the Galway Marathon of 2010, an ambitious event organised by the renowned race organiser Richard Donovan. Despite not finishing the marathon, Ian holds it in high regard, lamenting that external factors prevented it from becoming an annual fixture.
Ian's running exploits extend far beyond the city limits. He has raced a half marathon in Monivea, tackled 10-mile races in Portumna, Craughwell, and Anbally, and competed in many lesser-known but equally challenging events. Reflecting on the past, Ian notes the prevalence of the 4-mile race, once a staple distance. He recalls competitive 4-milers hosted by Loughrea AC, Easter Monday races in Castleblakeney, and the challenging Coldwood National School race. Another memorable event is the Medtronic charity race, which, although billed as a 6k, aligns closely with the 4-mile mark around Bruckey and Briarhill.
The 10k race, perhaps the most universally recognised distance, has been a focal point of Ian's running career. He has consistently achieved sub-40-minute finishes over 10k, a testament to his enduring speed and stamina. Venues like Ballygar, Barnaderg, Ardrahan, Clarinbridge, and Ballindereen have witnessed his impressive performances, and he remains determined to maintain this sub-40 streak as he approaches his 40th year of racing 10k.
While the 10k is widely popular, Ian's personal favorite is the 8k distance. He highlights the Streets of Galway as one of the best races in Ireland and reminisces about past 8k events in Tuam, Bullaun, Corofin, Cappatagle, and Ballyglunin.
Ian's affinity for the 5k distance is longstanding, having raced this short but intense distance worldwide. Locally, the Galway 5k Series, initiated by a dedicated group of runners in Raheen Woods, Athenry, has been a significant development. This series has introduced races to many new venues, including Caltra, Abbeyknockmoy, Carnmore Airport, Skehana, and other townlands associated with Galway athletic clubs.
One unique aspect of Ian's running journey is his participation in Christmas road races. He fondly recalls the half marathon and 10k in Carraroe and the renowned Athenry 10k. Winning the St. Stephen's Day races in Eyrecourt and Barna, as well as competing in the 8k in Kilbeacanty with the memorable race t-shirt slogan "I hit the wall at Spatters Cross," are highlights of his festive running exploits.
After 42 years of running on the roads, tracks, and fields of his beloved Galway, Ian Egan remains passionate and enthusiastic about the sport. He welcomes the opportunity to discover new villages and towns, eager to continue his journey across the county. His story is a testament to the spirit of a runner who has witnessed and contributed to the rich tapestry of Galway's running history.
As Ian puts it, "The journey continues."
Featured Image: Lettermore 4 mile 1997. Includes two of Galways finest runners, no longer with us. Mickey Kelly 3rd from right and Roger Rushe 2nd from right.
Also, on extreme left, John McSweeney who has been Ian's mentor, advisor and good friend for many years. "I credit him with many of my successes."