County Guide
Running Races in Cork 2026: The Full Calendar
If you're looking for running races in Cork in 2026, this is the full picture. Cork punches well above its weight — big events that rival Dublin for atmosphere, smaller club races that feel like a completely different sport, and some of the best road running scenery in the country out along the coast and west Cork.
Upcoming races in Cork
The headline events
Cork City Marathon and Half Marathon — the biggest day in the Cork running calendar, typically held in June. The half is the most popular option. The marathon takes in the city in a way that makes the suffering feel aesthetically justified — crowd support through the city centre is genuine and sustained. Full guide to the Cork City Marathon →
Kinsale Road Races — a well-loved fixture. Relaxed, scenic, and run by people who clearly love what they do. The kind of event that reminds you why you started running.
Ballycotton 10 — a February classic. Sea views, a point-to-point course, and a field full of serious club runners. Not a PB course, but worth doing at least once.
When do Cork races happen?
- January–February: Ballycotton 10 and a handful of early-season club events. Good for shaking off winter.
- March–May: The calendar fills up fast. Cross-country finishes, road races across the county, and the Cork City Marathon/Half in June.
- Summer (June–August): Club 5Ks and 10Ks dominate, particularly in coastal towns.
- Autumn (September–November): Shorter distances, some trail events, and the county cross-country championships.
Road vs trail in Cork
Cork has increasingly good trail options, particularly in the east of the county and out toward Gougane Barra. If you've only ever raced on road, a trail 10K in a Cork forest is a completely different experience — slower, more honest, and usually more fun.
Tips for entering Cork races
Getting there: City races are accessible by train from Munster. Parking near the city centre on race day is limited — Park and Ride or the train saves a lot of stress.
Club races: Cork has a deep club network — UCC, Eagle AC, Leevale, East Cork Athletics Club all run events that don't always appear on the main listing sites. Worth following them on social.
Entry timing: Cork City Marathon and Half sell out months in advance. Most other Cork races are fine with a few weeks' notice.
More Irish racing
Related: Half marathons in Ireland 2026 · Running races in Galway · Races still open for entry
Browse all upcoming races in Ireland → — updated daily.