Our story
A community event built on heart
The Kilmovee 5 & 10K Road Race has been part of the Easter calendar in Co. Mayo since 2010. What began as a local community initiative has grown into one of the most beloved road races in Connacht — known not just for its flat, fast course, but for the legendary hospitality that surrounds the event.
The race was established in 2010 and has grown year on year since. Known as "the friendliest and flattest race in the West", our reputation for pre- and post-race hospitality, and the warmth of the Kilmovee community, is what keeps runners coming back and what brings new faces every Easter Saturday.
Every entry raises vital funds for two causes at the heart of the Kilmovee community — the Mayo Roscommon Hospice Foundation and Kilmovee Shamrocks GAA — Injury Fund — making every kilometre run a contribution to something bigger than the race itself.
2011
Inaugural race
700+
Record entries (2025)
32:00
10K men’s record
37:20
10K women’s record
Men’s: Gary Thornton GCH (2017) • Women’s: Mary Gleeson Mayo AC (2011)
Special competitions
Racing for more than a medal
Alongside the main race, we run two special competitions that carry deep personal meaning for our community.
The Michael McDonnell Memorial Shield
Born in Corgarriff, Kilmovee, Co. Mayo, Michael McDonnell was the only son of Alex and Olive — both highly respected teachers in Ballaghaderreen. Educated in his native parish and St. Nathy's College, Michael graduated as a Primary School Teacher from Mary Immaculate College, Limerick.
He was much appreciated as a substitute teacher throughout Mayo, Roscommon and Longford, and was loved equally by pupils, parents and staff alike in Moylough NS, Co. Sligo, where he served as Principal until his untimely death in September 2012.
Only 33, and full of hope for the future with his wife Caitriona and their two children Lucia and Eloise, Michael learned in October 2011 that he had a brain tumour. His philosophy — "If it's worth doing, it's worth doing to the best of your ability" — is one that lives on in the spirit of this race.
Michael had a keen interest in photography and was happy to assist as a photographer for the Kilmovee event. He had an eye for the shot that captured the essence of the moment — the intense effort of the elite runners, the camaraderie of those less concerned with finishing positions, and the community spirit that surrounds the event.
The Michael McDonnell Memorial Shield is open to all teachers and students from any school, college or university — free to enter, within the main race. Just select the option when registering.
The Miyah Kelly NS Challenge
Launched in 2025, The Miyah Kelly National School Challenge is part of the 5K race. It was introduced in bittersweet memory of Miyah Kelly — a former u8 player with Kilmovee Shamrocks who passed away at just 7 years old.
The challenge is open to National School teachers and students, and stands as a beautiful tribute to a young life deeply remembered by everyone in the Kilmovee community.
Our beneficiaries
Who your entry supports
Every registration helps raise vital funds for two causes that matter deeply to the Kilmovee community.
Mayo Roscommon Hospice Foundation
Providing specialist palliative care and support for patients and families across Mayo and Roscommon. The Kilmovee 10K has supported the Hospice Foundation since the inaugural race in 2010.
hospice.ie →
Kilmovee Shamrocks GAA — Injury Fund
The GAA Injury Benefit Fund supports Kilmovee Shamrocks players who suffer accidental injuries in official Gaelic Games activities. It helps cover medical costs — such as physio and treatment — that fall outside what personal health insurance covers, ensuring players can access the care they need to return to the field.