Though HercOileán 2014 was largely a toe-in-the-water exercise in big event management – it was deemed a dripping / ripping success. In fact it succeeded to the extent that its off-spring, HercOileán 2015 has already grown and has spread its wings over a two-day fusion of fitness and fun and festivities and music. And that’s only for starters. Organised by An Ríocht Athletic Club and Castleisland Rugby Club the two day event will be held over the Saturday and Sunday of July 25th & 26th 2015.
The programme is expected to bring an unprecedented mix of main and side-shows with a festival atmosphere to the town over the two days. On Saturday, hundreds will take on the obstacles as they go out in their respective waves. Saturday evening will see the Galway band ‘Amazing Apples’ take to the stage in the marquee followed by a DJ to take the crowd into the early hours. ”This year’s event sees a second day scheduled with a jam packed Sunday.
HercOileán – The Expo
This will be an opportunity for local businesses to showcase their products or services. There will be lots on display for young and old and it fits the bill as the perfect family day out. The expo will be followed by an ‘easy Sunday session’ with more live music to bring a busy weekend in the island to a close,” said An Riocht AC manager, Kate McSweeney who is co-founder of the event with Castleisland RFC frontmen, Dan Casey and Bill Horgan.
Hercoileán, The Island Warrior Challenge
Hercoileán is a military style challenge course, 7.5km in distance. Think military boot-camp meets childhood fantasy of taking on the world and getting pretty messed up doing so. The event was hugely successful in its inaugural running last year and we’ve decided that we are going bigger and better for 2015. Competitors will be faced with a variety of obstacles as they make their way around the course. Obstacles will test the body and mind but while doing so are sure to make you laugh out loud and leave you with a feel good factor!!
Tackle Together
Gather a group and we’ll make sure you all go off in the same wave. Friends/teammates/work colleagues are sure to help you on your way round, you’ll feel less wet, less mucky, much stronger, and away faster!* (*Disclaimer: this is completely dependent on the profile of teammates involved) This year there will also be reduced rate U-18 waves, so grab your classmates and take on the obstacles together. ”Hugely positive responses came in after last year’s event with ‘the craic’ that was had on the course being the most discussed topic as people chill;ed out to the sounds of Hermitage Green at the post event party,” said Kate .
Rates Early Early Bird
Enter before 31st May 2015: €30 (includes after party ticket) Early Bird- Enter before 19th July: €35 – includes after party ticket. Sunday 19th-Friday 24th July 2015: €40 – includes after party ticket.
Hercoileán – The After Party
Once completed, it’s the perfect excuse to get together for a celebration of your athleticism, toughness and heroism on the day….or simply a time to revel in your combined ability to look ridiculous whilst overcoming obstacles. Galway band, Amazing Apples will take to the stage on Saturday night to help you celebrate. Alternatively, you can join the after party celebration without having taken on the challenge earlier in the day. Tickets for the party will be available from reception and online at www.riocht.ie About The Band ’Amazing Apples’ is a five- piece multi instrumental Indie/Folk band from Galway. In March 2014 they released their second single, ‘Slipping By’, which peaked at No. 1 on the iTunes downloads charts, and stayed in the Official Irish Charts for 2 weeks. Also in 2014 they headlined the Bier Hall Stage at Independence Festival, and played their first UK festival at Hamswell. This band were just last week shortlisted by Hot Press Magazine to appear on the cover as part of their Big Break Competition.
Hercoileán – The Expo & Car Boot Sale
An opportunity for local business to showcase their products or services and with a range of attractions will be a fantastic family day out. Indoor and Outdoor stalls will be available, to book or for more info email info@riocht.ie or contact 087 68 70 581. Meanwhile, An Riocht AC is up to its neck with the Lee Strand Kingdom Come 10miler. This is due to hit the road road on Sunday, May 17th at 11am. Exciting times ahead!! For all and any information check into: www.riocht.ie
