The Half on the Head has officially launched its 2026 edition, with entries now open for one of Ireland’s most scenic road races. The event will take place on Saturday, June 13th 2026 at 11am in Ballyheigue, Co. Kerry. This year there’s even more reason to sign up early: Run Republic & Run Ireland has secured a special introductory price of €35 for the half marathon and €20 for the 10K, available to the first 100 participants that sign up here. So don’t hang about.
Starting on Ballyheigue Beach and finishing at the historic castle gates, the Half on the Head has been running for over a decade and has built a reputation as a race that combines challenge, scenery, and community spirit. The half marathon is the headline distance, but there’s also a 10K run that shares the same spectacular setting and festival atmosphere.
A Course to Remember
The Half on the Head is one of the most scenic runs in Ireland. The looped course traces the Wild Atlantic Way around Kerryhead and the Shannon Estuary, offering panoramic views across Tralee Bay with Mount Brandon rising in the distance.
The first half climbs steadily as the road winds out past Glenlea and Tiershanaghan. Looking back, runners can spot the Kerry coastline stretching towards Ballybunion and even the Cliffs of Dooneen. Once you round Kerryhead, the bay opens out with breathtaking views of Mount Brandon and the Maherees. From there it’s a rewarding downhill run home with vistas from Banna to Fenit and Blennerville Windmill.
As organiser Mick Harkin explains, “As we say locally, there is only one hill… but it’s 9 miles long. We advise runners to pace themselves at the start, while it’s not steep it is a very steady climb. Once you turn for home you can enjoy the downhill and the spectacular views will keep you going.”'
A Growing International Event
Now firmly established, the Half on the Head attracts runners from across the globe. The 2025 edition featured participants from more than 20 countries, including Argentina, Australia, Canada, the USA, India, South Africa and throughout Europe. That mix of nationalities adds a cosmopolitan feel to what remains a community-driven race.
“People love the route and the feedback has been amazing with many runners returning year on year,” says Harkin.
Community at its Heart
From the schools that open to provide facilities, to the support of the local gardaí, coastguard and Family Resource Centre, the race simply wouldn’t happen without community involvement. “We couldn’t do it without them,” says Harkin. “The whole community gets involved and makes the day a special experience for everyone. We are a non-profit event with money going back into community projects.”
Water stations at 3.5, 7 and 10 miles keep runners fuelled, while Ballyheigue residents line the route to cheer them home. Every finisher earns a medal, and half marathon participants also receive a tech t-shirt.
Not everyone takes on the full 13.1 miles, and the 10K option gives participants a chance to enjoy the same atmosphere on a shorter but still challenging route. Both distances finish back in Ballyheigue, where the village comes alive with race-day excitement.
As Harkin sums it up: “The uniqueness, beauty and community vibe are the ultimate reward for this challenging run along the rugged Wild Atlantic Coast. You won’t be disappointed.”
Enter now for 2026
The 2026 Half on the Head takes place on Saturday, June 13th at 11am. Run Republic & Run Ireland’s special introductory price of €35 for the half marathon and €20 for the 10K is available to the first 100 participants that sign up. So get in early before the allocation is gone.
