Europe’s Oldest Inland Sailing Race Returns to Galway

On Saturday, June 28th, sails will be hoisted once again for one of the most iconic and historic events in Irish sailing—the Cong to Galway Sailing Race!

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First held in 1882, this race is recognised as Europe’s oldest inland sailing competition. The course follows the old steamer route from Lisloughrey Pier near Cong through the length of Lough Corrib, Ireland’s second-largest lake, and down the Corrib River, finally finishing at Corrib Village in Galway.

The event is raced in two legs: The first leg concludes at Kilbeg, where sailors will get some much needed refreshments, and the second leg navigates the lake’s narrower channels to reach the finish line at Corrib Village. The race is a display of skill, strategy, and scenery in equal measure.

Historically, the race was once a key social and sporting highlight until it paused after 1931. Revived again in the 70s, the Cong to Galway Sailing Race has been a beloved annual tradition ever since, celebrating the maritime heritage of the region and the resilience of the sailing community.

In recent years, the race has welcomed a growing fleet of cruisers, including the iconic Galway Hookers. The Galway Hookers, unique to the west of Ireland, have added a stirring visual and cultural spectacle to the historic race.

Photo courtesy of the Galway Hooker Sailing Club

This unique inland sailing race is proudly organised by a coalition of local clubs such as the Galway Bay Sailing Club, the Corrib Rowing and Yachting Club, the Galway City Sailing Club, the Spiddal Sailing Club, and the Galway Hooker Sailing Club.

Spectators are welcome along the race route and at Corrib Village to witness the boats finishing the historic race. For those interested in sailing, heritage, or simply a nice day out by the water, the Cong to Galway Sailing Race promises a memorable experience. The day will finish with celebrations and prize giving at the Corrib Rowing and Yachting Club.

Feature image by Tim O'Toole