The routes

GAELFORCE WESTPORT 34KM

Run 7.5km | Cycle 27.5km

Stage 1 | 1.5km run | Greenway
Start at Westport Quay and head out along the Great Western Greenway to Westport Skatepark for the first transition.

Stage 2 | 7.5km cycle | Sealed road
Leave the skatepark and roll out on the R335. Turn for Churchfield, cycle the rural roads of Killeenacofs, then into the Brackloon Woods transition area.

Stage 3 | 3km run | Woods trail
Swap the bike for a forest run through Brackloon Woods on woodland paths, returning to the bike transition.

Stage 4 | 7km cycle | Sealed road
Back on the saddle for a sealed road leg with a steady climb in the final kilometres as you approach the Croagh Patrick transition area.

Stage 5 | 3km mountain run or walk | Trail
A short, punchy Croagh Patrick section that takes you up to the ridge and back. Expect steep gradients, rough trail, and a big effort in a short distance.

Stage 6 | 12km cycle | Sealed road
Final cycle back towards Westport via sealed roads and the N59. Drop your bike at the last transition, then it is a short run to the finish line!

GAELFORCE WEST 68KM

Run 18.5km | Kayak 1km | Cycle 48.5km

Stage 1 | 13.5km run
Start at Lough Inagh Valley and follow trail with some road, with views of the Maamturks and 12 Bens, finishing through the Coillte forests behind Killary Adventure Centre.

Stage 2 | 1km kayak
A 1km loop on Killary Fjord in a two person sit on top kayak.

Stage 3 | 0.5km run
A short trail and road link to the bike transition area.

Stage 4 | 36.5km cycle
Cycle from Killary Adventure Centre towards Leenane and through the Partry and Sheefry Valleys on the N59, then turn for Croagh Patrick.

Stage 5 | 4.5km mountain run or walk
Up and down Croagh Patrick, a tough 764m climb to the summit of The Reek with spectacular views of Clew Bay and back down.

Stage 6 | 12km cycle
Final cycle into Westport. Drop the bike at the last transition and run through the finish line!

Protecting our heritage

Gaelforce West is only possible thanks to the continued support of local landowners and partners who allow access to this unique route and landscape.

We are proud to support the Croagh Patrick Stakeholder Group and to protect the heritage of the mountain. Please race with respect and follow Leave No Trace principles throughout the course.

20 years of adventure RACING

Gaelforce West is Ireland’s original adventure race. First staged in 2006, it began as a multi day expedition style event, built on teamwork, resilience and the raw Connemara landscape.

Over time it evolved into the legendary one day challenge it is today, without losing what made it iconic: multi-discipline racing, big conditions, and a finish that feels earned.

Route mapS