By Eoin Mc Garvey
The date for the 2026 Wild Atlantic Adventure Race (WAAR) has been announced this week and organisers are expecting an entry exceeding 700 competitors on Saturday, May 9.
The WAAR Committee, in conjunction with CLG Naomh Muire, this week have opened entries for their highly regarded Wild Atlantic Adventure Race.
This will be the 11th anniversary of the race, and once again over 700 participants from across Ireland and beyond are expected to run, cycle, hike, and kayak through the Rosses and Gaoth Dobhair.
WAAR is first and foremost a community driven event. The atmosphere is one of encouragement, positivity, and belonging. It brings people of all ages together to promote health, and inclusion, whilst also delivering a welcome boost to the local economy and helping to kick start the tourist season.
This year the club donated €1,700 from the entry proceeds towards Gemma’s Legacy of Hope, as it sees this service being very much aligned to the Health and Wellbeing activities of the Club. Gemma’s Legacy of Hope is a totally community funded voluntary organisation. They provide counselling services and play therapy for adolescences and adults locally.
CLG Naomh Muire were among the very first clubs in Ireland to achieve the GAA’s National Healthy Clubs Initiative back in 2016–2017. This nationwide programme encourages GAA clubs to go beyond the playing field and focus on the health and wellbeing of members and the wider community.
Club chairman JC Gillespie said these initiatives have had a transformative impact in a small and rural community like that of the Naomh Muire club surrounds. He said they’ve created a place for everyone, ensuring that people of all ages and abilities feel supported and connected.
“We’ve seen first-hand the difference these activities make, especially for those facing challenges such as depression, isolation, or anxiety. Our aim has always been simple: to show empathy through action. WAAR is at the heart of all our health and wellbeing efforts. While hundreds take part in the race itself, running, cycling, hiking, and kayaking, hundreds more get involved as volunteers, organisers, and supporters. Many of these volunteers had never been involved in community events before WAAR, making the race a powerful entry point for social inclusion and connection,” he said.
WAAR spokesman Paddy Mc Creery said the shared sense of achievement and community pride is incredible whether someone takes part individually or as part of a team.
“We are proud that WAAR has not only become one of Donegal’s best known sporting events but also a life affirming celebration of health, friendship, and mental wellbeing. Keep your eyes open for some exciting initiatives in the new year geared towards helping participants train and motivate themselves,” he said.
An early bird discount price is available up until Christmas if you need to fill anybody’s stocking or if you want to enter yourself. Details can be found on the WAAR website www.waar.ie
