The wait is over, registration is officially open for the 2026 Omagh Half Marathon and 5K, taking place on Sunday March 22nd, 2026. Hosted by Omagh Harriers AC, the event returns for what will be its 36th edition, which goes to show how deeply rooted it is on Ulster's running calendar.
The race has a storied past. First held in the early 1980s as a 10-mile run, it shifted distances a couple of times before finding its home at the half marathon mark in 1987. After a short break in the late 1990s, Omagh Harriers relaunched the event in 2000, and since then it has flourished into one of the country’s most popular spring fixtures. From just a few hundred entrants two decades ago, organisers now expect close to 5,000 runners in 2026.
It’s become something of a tradition for places to vanish quickly, so runners are being encouraged to sign up early rather than face disappointment later.
Event Timetable
- Half Marathon Walk: 8.30am
- Half Marathon Run & Wheelchair Race: 9.30am
- SPAR 5K Run: 9.45am (roughly 15 minutes after the half gets underway)
- All races begin at Omagh Leisure Complex
Every finisher will receive a bespoke medal, while Half Marathon entrants will also take home a commemorative T-shirt. A flat, fast course, chip timing, on-course pacers (1:30, 1:45, 2:00, 2:15, 2:30), plus live music and refreshments at the finish line will all add to the atmosphere.
Prizes and Records
There’s a £6,000 prize pot on offer, with awards across age groups and team categories, as well as prizes for wheelchair athletes. The incentive doesn’t stop there, a £250 bonus is available for the first man or woman to break the standing course records of 64:46 (men) and 74:28 (women).
Secure Your Spot
Omagh has built its reputation on excellent organisation, fantastic crowd support, and a brilliant race day buzz. With the exponetial demand across the province for race entries, places are expected to go fast once again. Don’t leave it too late ,get your name down now and guarantee your place on the start line.
👉 Sign up here
