40 Years of Hell of The West Triathlon
Special Report by Limerick Triathlon Club
Hell of the West - A legacy of Endurance
For four decades, Hell of the West has stood as one of Ireland’s premier triathlon events, drawing elite athletes and passionate competitors from across the island and beyond. Born in 1985 and now in its 40th running, this iconic race has tested athletes on one of Europe’s most breathtaking coastal courses while building a vibrant community of triathletes united by the challenge.
Hosted annually in Kilkee, County Clare, Hell of the West has become synonymous with authentic triathlon racing – a demanding Olympic-distance event that respects tradition while embracing the sport’s explosive growth. Though the race paused in 2020 due to the global pandemic, it returned stronger than ever, reaffirming its place in the Irish triathlon calendar.
This year, as we celebrate our 40th edition, we invite you to be part of this extraordinary legacy. Whether you’re seeking your first triathlon, chasing a personal best, or testing yourself against some of Ireland’s finest competitors, Hell of the West awaits.
Olympian Athletes' legacy
Hell of the West has earned its reputation as a destination for elite triathlon by attracting Olympic competitors who have represented Ireland and Northern Ireland on the world’s biggest stage. The race serves as a testing ground where Olympians refine their craft and where aspiring athletes can race alongside the very best.
Bryan Keane
Course Record Holder Bryan Keane contested the 2016 Summer Olympics in Rio. Among his accolades, Bryan placed 7th at the 2010 ITU Sprint Distance Triathlon World Championships and earned a team bronze medal at the 2000 European Cross Country Championships. At Hell of the West, Bryan Keane has set the benchmark for excellence with the current course record of 1:59:42 – a time that stands 4 seconds ahead of his nearest challenger and demonstrates the speed and strength Hell of the West attracts.
Gavin Noble
Gavin Noble placed 23rd at the 2012 London Olympics representing Ireland and competed at the highest levels of triathlon including representing Northern Ireland at the 2002 and 2006 Commonwealth Games. At Hell of the West in 2015, Noble posted an impressive 1:59:46 – a performance that ranks among the fastest in the race’s history.
Carolyn Hayes
Carolyn Hayes competed in the women’s triathlon at the 2020 Tokyo Olympics. Formerly a water polo player, Hayes put a medical career on hold to pursue her Olympic dream. At Hell of the West in 2015, Hayes completed with a time of 2:15:57, bringing Olympic-caliber performance to Kilkee.
These athletes are testament to the quality and prestige of Hell of the West—a race that draws world-class triathletes and provides the perfect stage for both established champions and rising stars.
Hell of the West Archive Images below kindly provided by Limerick Triathlon Club.
The course : Olympic Distance Challenge
Hell of the West follows the classic Olympic triathlon format: 1500m swim, 45km bike, and 10km run. But numbers alone don’t capture what makes this course legendary.
The Swim: 1500m in Kilkee Bay
Competitors dive into the pristine waters of Kilkee Bay, where crystal-clear Atlantic waters welcome athletes with a scenic 1500-meter course. The protected bay provides relatively sheltered conditions compared to open ocean, though the Atlantic’s character is never far away. Friendly dolphins have even been known to accompany swimmers – a truly Irish triathlon experience.
The Bike: 45km Along the Wild Atlantic Way
The 45km cycle route is a masterpiece of Irish cycling – predominantly flat to rolling terrain that showcases some of County Clare’s most spectacular scenery. Riders navigate the legendary Wild Atlantic Way, with sweeping vistas of the Atlantic coast at every turn. The terrain presents enough challenge to separate the cyclists without becoming punitive, rewarding strong bike fitness and tactical racing. This is where the race is often won and lost.
The Run: 10km on the Dunlicky Road
The final 10km run brings competitors home along the Dunlicky Road, a route that tests mental toughness and running fitness. By this stage, athletes are racing on tired legs, and only those with proper training and strategy will find the speed to chase down competitors or hold off a charging final challenger. The finish line awaits with the roar of supporters and the satisfaction of completing one of Ireland’s most iconic courses.
Champions and Legendary Athletes
Hell of the West has attracted and crowned some of Ireland’s greatest triathletes over the past four decades. Here are some of the memorable champions and stories that have shaped the race.
Eugene Galbraith – The Olympian’s Victory (1992)
In 1992, Ulsterman Eugene Galbraith, an Olympian competing for Triangle Triathlon Club, dominated Hell of the West with a stunning performance. Galbraith emerged from the water behind unknown junior contender Alaistair Duffield but took complete control on the 45km bike course, finishing three minutes ahead of the nearest competitor. His impressive 10km run, completed in 35:02, added another three minutes to his overall lead. Galbraith’s victory remains a benchmark of the racing excellence Hell of the West attracts.
Joan Griffin – Trailblazer and Champion (1992)
Among the women’s field that same year, Joan Griffin (52) claimed the first lady overall title and made her mark on Irish triathlon. Griffin went on to make an appearance in the Stockholm European Championship, representing Ireland at the highest international level. Her victory at Hell of the West in 1992 exemplified the caliber of female athletes the race has always attracted, and she’s remembered as one of the event’s legendary champions.
Ger Frahill – The Limerick Legend
Ger Frahill represents the heart of Hell of the West – a fierce local champion who captured the prestigious Joey Hannan Perpetual Memorial Cup, honoring the club member tragically killed while cycling in 1991. Frahill’s victory was especially meaningful, as the Joey Hannan Cup celebrates not just athletic achievement but the community spirit that defines Limerick Triathlon Club. His name is etched in the race’s history as a symbol of determination and pride.
A Legacy of Excellence
These are just a few of the unforgettable performances and champions Hell of the West has crowned over the decades. The race has consistently attracted national and international-level competitors, all seeking to test themselves on this demanding course. From first-time triathletes crossing the line with pride to elite athletes battling for victory, Hell of the West celebrates the entire spectrum of triathlon excellence.
Your Invitation: Join Us on Saturday 4th July 2026
Hell of the West isn’t just a race – it’s a milestone in your triathlon journey. Whether you’re embarking on your first standard distance event or you’re a seasoned competitor hunting for a top finish, this race offers everything: a scenic, challenging course; a vibrant, supportive community; and the chance to be part of 40 years of Irish triathlon legacy.
The Wild Atlantic Way awaits. Kilkee Bay is calling. The Dunlicky Road will test your mettle. And the finish line will welcome you as part of the Hell of the West family.
