Achill event wins two Run Ireland awards

THE Achill Half-Marathon has received awards in two categories in the recently announced Run Ireland Best of 2018 Awards.

Achill scooped the Best Half-Marathon Award as well as Ireland’s Most Scenic Route.

Speaking on behalf of the marathon committee, chairperson Pauric Corrigan said: “After 14 years, the Achill Island Half-Marathon team are delighted to have been honoured with these awards and to be acknowledged as the best half-marathon and most scenic route in the country.”

He also paid tribute to the many people who have worked over the years to achieve the high standards that the race is renowned for.

Local councillor and committee member Paul McNamara said it was a great endorsement of what can be achieved by a small community and he thanked the people of Achill for embracing the event and making it such a success year on year.

Sean Molloy, manager of Achill Tourism, said the marathon was now an integral part of the tourist season in Achill and marked the start of the high season in July. It is an important showcase for Achill as an ideal destination for outdoor and sports enthusiasts.

This year’s race takes place on Saturday, July 6, and 1,200 runners are once again expected to take part.

More information and registration is available on www.achillmarathon.com.