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March University unveils new 5km health and wellbeing River Route

University unveils new 5km health and wellbeing River Route

University of Galway
Launching the new 5km River Route at University of Galway were, from left, Professor Becky Whay, University of Galway Deputy President and Registrar, Professor David Burn, University of Galway President, Mayor of the City of Galway, Councillor Mike Cubbard, and Des Ryan, Director of Sport and Physical Wellbeing at University of Galway. Credit - Martina Regan

University of Galway has unveiled a new 5km River Route to enhance physical and mental wellbeing for students, staff and the wider community.

The initiative was launched by Mayor of the City of Galway, Councillor Mike Cubbard, and University of Galway President, Professor David Burn, as part of the University’s ongoing investment in outdoor facilities, with funding support from Galway City Council’s Active Cities and Healthy Galway programmes

The newly marked River Route begins on campus at the Jes Rowing Club and runs along the banks of the River Corrib, finishing at the rugby pitch within the University’s Dangan Sports Campus.

The scenic riverside route makes use of the tow path and features clearly marked kilometre points and navigation maps to support walkers, joggers and runners of all abilities.

The River Route formalises and enhances a pathway already popular with local running and community groups and is designed to encourage participation by people at every level, from casual walkers to more competitive athletes and those in training.

Mayor of the City of Galway, Councillor Mike Cubbard said: ”Galway City Council is delighted to support the development of this fantastic River Route, through our Active Cities and Healthy Galway programmes. These programmes envision a Galway City where everyone, regardless of age or ability, can enjoy physical and mental health and wellbeing to their full potential. The launch of the River Route is an excellent example of a free year-round exercise facility in the heart of Galway City. Congratulations to University of Galway on the launch of what will no doubt be a very well-used facility for the community.”

Professor David Burn, University of Galway President, said: “With the launch of this new River Route, we are strengthening our commitment to supporting the physical and mental wellbeing of our students, staff and the wider community. The River Corrib is a defining feature of our campus and very few universities can offer a 5km riverside experience like this. When you are on the route, surrounded by water and trees, it feels like being in the countryside, even though you are just minutes from the heart of Galway city. It’s a rare and unique part of campus life that we’re excited to share with everyone.”

Des Ryan, Director of Sport and Physical Wellbeing at University of Galway, said: “This is an excellent addition to our campus for students, staff and the wider community. It will act as a support for people who are active and an inspiration for people who are thinking of being more active. It will influence people to walk, jog or run, all of which will help improve our physical and mental wellbeing and give us extra energy for work, life and the things we enjoy.

“The benefits of physical activity include reducing the risk of chronic diseases, improving mood, enhancing sleep quality, and strengthening muscles and bones. It helps manage weight, boosts energy levels, improves cognitive function in older adults, and aids in managing conditions like arthritis and depression. The new River Route aims to make physical activity more accessible, visible and achievable for everyone.”

The project was a collaborative project between the University’s Buildings and Estates Office and the Sports Unit, with funding support from Active Cities Galway through Sport Irelands Dormant Account Fund and Healthy Galway City through the Healthy Ireland Fund supported by the Department of Health.

The new River Route builds on the University’s outdoor wellbeing facilities and infrastructure, which has expanded in recent years and supports more than 40 sports clubs, student groups, staff initiatives and community organisations. The facilities include: