Welcome to our web site where you can learn all about all our events taking place at Farrell’s Field in Roundstone this summer. We have an exceptional Showground; a dedicated and hard-working committee; and a list of honest, impartial Judges who do not personally know the competitors or ponies. We also have many eminent sponsors without whom these events would not be possible. So many thanks to all that continue to support us so well and so generously.

Roundstone Events will be staging more events at the Farrell’s Field Showground in the near future, so watch this space for dates, times and details of upcoming concerts, shows and more.

Roundstone Regatta

Each July the quiet Connemara village of Roundstone erupts in spectacular celebration of a maritime festival that dates back to the 1890s. Sail and oar propel traditional boats in two days of racing that showcase athletic skill as well as keeping alive the important role these craft have played in the islands and coastal communities over the centuries.

Sailing
The distinctive profile and sail colour of Galway Hookers racing across Roundstone Bay recreates a sight not so different from how it might have appeared (apart from the clothes of those sailing) a century or two ago.

With its shallow draught, the boat is well-suited to the waters of Galway and South Connemara, and has been used for hundreds of years primarily for fishing and transporting cargo.

Rowing
Men and women, as well as boys and girls, take their turn at the oars of a timber or canvas currach or naomhoga, racing in a variety of categories. Competitors come from across Ireland, from across the Atlantic, and occasionaly from the crowds of onlookers, intending only to watch, but suddenly caught up in the regatta’s spirit.

The flat-bottom currach, well-suited to the sea and rivers of West Ireland, first appeared in written history around the time of Julius Caesar. They have been used for transporting fish, fishermen, sheep, cattle, and allegedly even a boatload of monks under Saint Brendan to America in the 6th century.

As well as excitement on the water, the Roundstone Regatta offers traditional music and dancing ashore, and includes a noontime mass on the pier with the customary blessing of the boats.

Roundstone Bay 8K is also proud to support our local RNLI Lifeboat service and we would hugely appreciate it if runners could endeavour to do some small bit of fundraising for this very worthwhile cause if at all possible. Barring that, please donate as little €5 on the day when picking up your race pack, but feel free to be as generous as you like!

Prizes will be awarded in the following categories:
- 1st, 2nd and 3rd Male Overall
- 1st, 2nd and 3rd Female Overall
- 1st  Male Over 40, Over 50 and Over 60
- 1st  Female Over 40, Over 50 and Over 60
- Top GAA team (First 4 runners times from each club will score)

In addition, this years race theme is “Retro Running” and there will be a prize for the best outfit that participates in the race. Think headbands, big hair, tight tops, ‘tashes(for the men only of course!), and bright bright colours. Let your imagination run loose.
Not just content with putting on solely an 8K Race, we really want you enjoy your time in Roundstone, and the key to that will be ensuring a fantastic atmosphere.
- There will be a DJ prior to, and after the race, at the start-finish line.
- Count on plenty of locals cheering on your every step!
- Take in the fantastic scenery and views on landmark sights such as Gurteen Beach, Ervallagh Harbour, The Twelve Bens and Roundstone Village itself
- Spent a bit of time enjoying the banter with your fellow runners; be they local or even from further afield.
- And why not consider spending a night or two in Roundstone and making a right old weekend of it!

The Apres-Run Party
Roundstone is renowned for its welcoming atmosphere and also for its festivals and events throughout the year. This years Apres-Run party will take place in The Shamrock Bar on Saturday evening and the retro-theme will still be going strong as we crank up the fun with Classic Rock Hits from performers extraordinaire Silver Circus. If you haven’t caught these guys before then you are in for a treat!

All runners and supporters are welcome and there is no cover-charge, so swap your runners for your groovy shoes and enjoy the craic!
There will also be Traditional Irish music session in the village pubs, so why not go for a stroll, take in the atmosphere and feel free to sample the best that Roundstone has on offer. Oh and did we mention that it won’t be long til see the benefits of having all 6 pubs in the village within 100 metres of each other!

For more info, visit www.roundstonebay8k.com