MAYOR of Galway Cllr Helen Ogbu was joined at the launch of the Medtronic Streets of Galway 8K by Liam Silke, town crier, Seamus Lynch, Board Chair Galway City Harriers (GCH), Councillor Donal Lyons, Brian Bruton, race director, Cllr Clodagh Higgins, Mick Roche, member of the race founding committee in 1986, and Keith Healy, Medtronic, with GCH athletes Caoimhe Daniels and Nora Tierney on starters orders. PHOTO: Andrew Downes xposure

Annual road race brings runners through the heart of Galway

Published: Fri 7 Aug 2026, 9:00 AM

AS many as 4,000 runners will mark the 40th anniversary of the Medtronic Streets of Galway 8k road race.

The running event begins at 7pm on Saturday, August 8. It will feature participants ranging from athletes and club runners to first-timers on a personal challenge.

As the race marks four decades of running through the heart of Galway city, organisers are encouraging people across the city to come out and support participants along the course.

“This event has always been about more than running. It is about community,” said Brian Bruton, the race director.

“As we celebrate this special milestone, we would love to see the people of Galway come out in force and help make this the biggest and best race atmosphere we’ve ever had."

This year's road race is expected to attract a record number of participants. As sponsor, Medtronic have said the event reflects the values of wellbeing, community and participation that have made the race an important event in Galway.

Senior Finance Director at Medtronic, Keith Healy said that the company is delighted to support the event, and added that fitness expert and Laya Health Ambassador, Karl Henry, will lead the official race warm-up at the Claddagh.

For more information visit: www.galwaycityharriers.ie