Women’s Trail Series is held in picturesque Union Wood in Co Sligo

46 women completed the 6km trail run which was designed to both challenge and motivate participants. The route followed the gravel fire roads of Union Wood with turns offs into the woods to mountain bike trails of single-track paths with natural obstacles like tree roots, rocks, and mud, amidst the scenic backdrop of bluebells which offered some distraction from the demanding climbs along the way.

Theresa Kilgannon from Sligo Sport and Recreation Partnership said “This has been a very successful partnership between SSRP and IMRA to increase women’s participation in trail running.

“The series saw 99 individual women give trail running a go over the three events, showcasing the growing interest in the sport.

“While many women found the untimed nature of this series a motivating factor to take part as it took away pressure creating a more relaxed atmosphere, many have said they are now confident to take part in the upcoming IMRA West league, achieving the aim of this series”

The first event of the West League takes place on the 11th of May and will offer participants the choice of running the same 6km route in Union Wood as a short course option or conquering the new challenge of the full course which includes an additional 2km and a climb to summit Union Rock.

There is even an option to start 30minutes early at IMRA events if runners wish to have extra time to enjoy the route and take in the views.

The events are open to everyone over the age of 6 years.

Full details of the IMRA West League can be found at https://www.imra.ie/leagues/view/id/376/