It’s not every race that comes with a tidal warning, but the Coney Island Adventure Run, returning this Saturday 28th June, isn’t your typical 10 miler.
Starting from Sligo Rugby Club in Strandhill, this unique race sends runners out along quiet country roads, over the shifting sands of Cummeen Strand, and onto Coney Island itself, before turning around and racing back across the causeway, all before the tide returns. It’s part road race, part coastal dash, part geographical dare.
A Race Against Time (and Water)
The course covers 10 miles (15km) of varied terrain, but it’s the tidal crossing that gives the Coney Island Adventure Run its edge. The 2.5km stretch across the strand is only passable at low tide, meaning your timing isn’t just important for a PB, it’s essential for getting back at all.
The route starts with solid road miles before giving way to the more rugged underfoot experience of the causeway. Runners then loop the island, taking in views of the Atlantic, the Sligo coastline, and a few curious locals (of the sheep variety), before retracing their steps back to Strandhill. And yes, there’s even a broom wagon in place to ensure no one is left behind, a key part of the organisers’ commitment to keeping all participants safe on the day.
To help plan your crossing safely, the organisers encourage participants and supporters to use the RNLI’s “Text the Tide” service. Just text “Coney” to 51155 (ROI) or 81400 (UK) to receive the latest tide times direct to your phone. Always allow plenty of time for your return, and never cross if the path is submerged. These safety measures, along with the broom wagon and course marshals, ensure that while the challenge is real, your safety is always the priority.
And while the run is open to over-18s only, the walk welcomes all ages, with an early turn-back option if the full loop isn’t on the cards.
Prizes, Perks & Participation
There’s plenty on offer beyond the unique route. Competitive runners must pass the timing check at the turnaround point to be in with a shout for prizes:
- 🥇 Top 3 Men & Women (10 Mile Run)
- 🧓 1st Over-55 Men & Women
- 🎁 Spot Prizes randomly awarded across both events
The event is chip timed and all participants will receive a race number and t-shirt (available to the first 300 registrations). For those entering late, in-person registration is available at the clubhouse:
- Friday evening: 6:30–8:00pm
- Saturday morning:
- 10:00–10:40am for the Walk
- 11:00–11:40am for the Run
Note: registration closes 20 minutes before each event.
Facilities & Atmosphere
Back at Sligo Rugby Club, hot showers and complimentary refreshments, including tea, coffee, and snacks, await all finishers. A prize ceremony will take place after the run, wrapping up what promises to be a day of sea air, sunburn (maybe), and stories.
And while the route might be unforgettable, it’s the cause that really sticks. This is a fundraising event, with proceeds going directly toward youth development at Sligo Rugby, helping to support the next generation of local athletes.
💶 Entry Details
- 🏃♂️ Run (10 miles): €35 + booking fee (18+ only)
- 🚶♀️ Walk (10 miles, all ages): €30 + booking fee
- 🎽 T-shirt: Included for first 300 sign-ups
- 💻 Register online or pay on the day (cash/card)
The day is shaping to be a unique adventure with a deadline set by the sea. Roads, sand, island, and tide: the Coney Island Adventure Run offers all four in one unforgettable loop.
