West Mayo parkrun marks a sunny celebration in popular woods

The beautiful South-West Mayo lakeside community of Tourmakeady has recently celebrated the establishment of its parkrun, which was bathed in brilliant sunshine. 

Fifty enthusiastic participants of all ages, plus supporters and volunteers, were treated to perfect early morning weather for the 5km run or walk in the stunningly beautiful Tourmakeady Woods.

The 2.5km route starts in the attractive Wood carpark, heads towards the captivating waterfall, turns gently uphill, then descends along a winding laneway to the carpark for lap number two.

It was the sixth consecutive Saturday since the Lough Mask community’s inaugural parkrun on August 16. This latest September 20 occasion was planned as a more relaxed time after the inaugural event for the community and supporters to mark the establishment of the parkrun.

Tourmakeady Woods is now the seventh parkrun in County Mayo, the others being Achill, Ballina, Castlebar, Claremorris, Erris and Westport. They attract participants from Ireland and abroad.

READ MORE: Demand for campervans in Mayo has ‘doubled’ since Covid

In her welcome to the celebration event, run director Cathy Heneghan said the parkrun is a great addition to the attractions available in Tourmakeady, and to bringing people together for a fun, outdoor community experience every Saturday at 9.30am. 

“It's not just for runners as walkers are very welcome and encouraged too. The ethos of parkrun is based on community health and wellbeing, both physical and mental, and every event has a post-event social element, like coffee in a local café, as we have here in Tourmakeady.”

Castlebar Municipal District Councillors Al McDonnell (Cathaoirleach) and Ger Deere (leas-chathaoirleach) praised the initiative and strong voluntary community spirit evident in setting up Tourmakeady Wood Parkrun.  

Joanne Grehan, Mayo County Council Director of Services with responsibility for tourism, said: “This is another welcome addition to the range of outdoor activities available around Tourmakeady.”

She also noted the village is one of 20 communities of Joyce Country and Western Lakes Geopark that has just been granted UNESCO Global Geopark status, which aims to help boost local jobs and income opportunities through showcasing rich local heritage, stunning landscapes and activities.

Charlie Lambert of Mayo Sports Partnership encouraged people of all ages to embrace parkruns as “a fabulous way to keep healthy, socialise and connect with people” within a community and beyond.

READ MORE: Have you noticed this Mayo town is 50% darker at night?