Welcome to the new website of UltraRunning Ireland.
The site will provide updates on the performances of Irish international athletes. In addition, there will be reports and comment on matters related to Irish ultra running; a calendar of Irish ultra races; an outline of international selection criteria; announcements of new records; and information for the novice ultra runner.
For the international ultra runner, there are European and World Championships at 100km and 24 Hours and a World Championships at Trail Running and 50km. There is also a Home Nations international at 100k, which UltraRunning Ireland hosted in Galway in 2009.
Perhaps one of the most interesting developments in the sport was the Commonwealth Championships at 100km and 24 Hours in September 2009. This inaugural championships has been viewed by many as the initial stepping stone for inclusion of the sport at the Olympic Games. The IAAF already includes the 100km distance in its road rankings and the annual 100km World Championships is held under its patronage.
Ultrarunning is a rapidly-growing global sport as evidenced by participation levels in both adventure running races and road events as well as the mainstream popularity of new ultra books. However, the sport in Ireland currently receives no government funding, either directly or indirectly, and relies on private sponsorship and the contribution of the international athletes themselves.
Despite the absence of public financial support, there has been considerable success achieved by Irish ultra athletes. We hope this continues into next year and beyond.
Richard Donovan
Chairman
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