Christmas in Dublin has its traditions. The turkey, the tins of Roses, the Stephen’s Day walk. And for hundreds of runners, there’s one more thing on the festive calendar, the Sutton Fat Turkey Run. Each December, just as the city starts to stir from its post Christmas daze, runners gather at Suttonians Rugby Club for a 10K that’s equal parts punishment and reward. It’s not your flat city jog. This is a lung busting climb up Carrickbrack Road to Howth Summit, followed by a mad dash back downhill with the sea breeze in your face.
Now in its 14th year, the Fat Turkey has become a beloved seasonal fixture, a chance to burn off the bread sauce, catch up with the clubmates, and raise funds for both Suttonians RFC and the IRFU Charitable Trust. For locals it’s tradition, for visitors it’s a hidden gem, and for everyone it’s a proper test of December legs.
Here’s what you need to know:
When & where
This year’s edition is set for the 27th of December, with the start time pinned for 11:00am. Registration opens earlier in the morning from 9:00am at the Suttonians RFC, across from Sutton Dart station. The start line is at St Fintan’s Church in Sutton, and the finish is on the grass verge opposite the church.
The course
Don’t let “scenic” fool you, this route packs a punch. The 10 km is out and back, climbing up Carrickbrack Road, passing the Summit shop, then onto Baily Green Road until the Summit car park (the turnaround), before retracing your steps downhill. Expect stiff uphill at the front portion, then a rewarding descent back to Sutton. There’s a water / aid station at the turnaround point.
Who’s it for
All runners over 16 are welcome, fast, slow, or somewhere in between. The organisers explicitly encourage “runners, joggers, slow, fast, small and large” to take part. There is a cut off time of about 85-90 minutes to ensure marshals, road closures and timing can wrap up cleanly
Why do it?
- It’s a great post Christmas run to reset your legs and your head.
- The views from the summit stretch are lovely, especially on a clear winter’s day, sea glimpses, coastline, and that classic Dublin hill challenge.
- Proceeds go to a good cause: Suttonians RFC and the IRFU Charitable Trust, which supports severely injured rugby players.
- After the race you’re invited back to the club , there are changing/shower facilities, tea/coffee, biscuits and a full bar, plus prize giving and family activities.
Registration & cost
Enter here. Entry is around €28 plus registration fees, and the event typically sells out. Make sure to sign up early to guarantee your place (and your race tee).
Image: Suttonians RFC