If you are looking for something a bit different on the spring racing calendar, the Bantry AC Flying Five is quietly building a name for itself down in West Cork. Now in its third year, this five mile road race takes place on Sunday April 19th at 10:30am, offering a mix of scenery, challenge, and a breathtaking course you will struggle to find anywhere else in Ireland.
And yes, before you ask, you do actually run along an airstrip.
A Course With A Bit Of Everything
The route takes in sections of the Wild Atlantic Way, including the Sheep’s Head and Rooska loop, before giving runners the rare chance to run along Bantry Airstrip right at the water’s edge. It is the kind of setting that feels more like a postcard than a race route, with views across Bantry Bay and out towards Whiddy Island.
It is not flat. This is West Cork, not Kildare. There are hills, and the organisers are upfront about that. But that is part of the appeal. Previous runners have described it as tough but well worth it once you take in the surroundings.
There is a novelty factor too. Running on an airstrip is not something you get at your average five miler, and again no, there will not be any planes landing whilst you run.
A Growing Fixture In The Calendar
The race organiser described it as a race they are keen to build year on year:
“This is the 3rd year of our race and we are set on it becoming a regular fixture in the spring racing calendar. We are really excited to welcome new runners to Bantry Bay and hope to see many returning faces again.”
It has that feel of a race that is still small enough to be friendly and local, but with enough going on to make it worth the trip.
Entry, Pricing And What You Get
Entry is straightforward at €25, which is very fair for what is on offer.
There is a free race t shirt for the first 200 entries, so leaving it late could mean missing out. Water stations will be in place on the course, and there will be proper post race refreshments at the finish, including sandwiches and treats rather than just grabbing a bottle of water and heading home.
Parking is available on site, and race numbers are collected on the day, keeping things simple.
Prize Money On Offer
There is decent prize money up for grabs too:
- 1st male and female: €250
- 2nd: €150
- 3rd: €100
There are also age category prizes for men and women in their 40s, 50s and 60s, along with a few spot prizes thrown in on the day.
Fancy Something Different?
If you are sick of the same looped city ring road/industrial estaste courses and want something with a bit more character, this is one worth a look. It is challenging without being over the top, scenic without feeling gimmicky, and just different enough to stand out.
With around three weeks to go, it is the kind of race that could fill up quietly rather than loudly. If you are thinking about it, it is probably worth just getting signed up and sorting it now.
