McKinney Games Confirm August 2026 Date After Storm Forced Postponement Last Year

The McKinney Games are back on the calendar, with organisers confirming a new date of Sunday August 31st this year after the original event was postponed due to severe weather.

The inaugural edition of the McKinney Games had been due to take place last autumn, but a weekend storm forced organisers into a late call to postpone on safety grounds. With high winds and difficult conditions forecast, the decision was taken to stand the event down rather than push ahead in compromised circumstances.

Now, with a new date confirmed and plans locked in, the event is set to return later this year with the same structure, distances, and pricing model that first drew attention when it launched. We had a look at the unique quintessential McKinney prize format here

Same Format, Same Distances

With the new date now confirmed, organisers have indicated that the event format will remain unchanged from the original plan. Course layouts, distances, and the overall race structure are expected to mirror what was previously announced, giving runners clarity well in advance.

The McKinney Games will once again offer a full spread of road distances, all taking place on the same day. That includes 5K, 10K, 10 mile, half marathon, 20 mile, and full marathon options, allowing runners at very different stages of their training to take part under the same event umbrella.

Entries are expected to open in due course via the official event website, with further race day information to follow closer to August. For now, the emphasis is on providing certainty around distance options and pricing, both of which have been confirmed.

All official updates will be published through the McKinney Games website.

Confirmed Entry Prices

• 5K – £19.50
• 10K – £34.50
• 10 Mile – £36.50
• Half Marathon – £39.50
• 20 Mile – £44.50
• Marathon – £49.50

Entry link here

The marathon price in particular is very competitive by current standards. It also includes ten mile and half marathon options, ideal for Dublin Marathon prep.

Why it is Worth a Punt

What sets the McKinney Games apart is not just the pricing, but the setting. The courses run on quiet roads around the former Maze Prison site, offering a rare mix of space, history, and breathing room that is hard to find in busier city races. With multiple distances sharing the same race day, it also creates a legitimate event feel rather than a single standalone run.

The pricing structure remains one of the most interesting features. A sub fifty pound marathon and a well timed 20 mile option give runners useful late summer choices, particularly for those building towards Dublin or looking for a long run with race day support.

If you fancy something a bit different from the usual crowded calendar staples, this is your chance to get involved. Entries and updates are available via the official McKinney Games website, and with plenty of lead in time now confirmed, runners can plan with confidence.