If you’re after a Thursday evening run with proper countryside charm, friendly faces, and a medal that doesn’t look like it came from the bottom of a cereal box, get yourself to Tinahely, County Wicklow this 14th August.
New for 2025, the Garden County 5K & 10K Run/Walk is shaping up to be a summer highlight. The race combines relaxed small-town vibes with chip timing, proper tech tees, and more bling options than your average pop star. Hosted by Bling Hunters Running Events, this one’s part race, part celebration and all for a good cause if you fancy it. Children’s Health Ireland is the race’s charity partner, a very worthy cause. And you can still enter online.
Two Distances, One Wicklow Welcome
Both the 5K and 10K start and finish outside Tinahely Community Hall, with the 5K walk getting underway at 7:15pm, followed by the main race start at 7:30pm.
The course heads out into the green, rolling countryside surrounding the village. It’s not mountain climbing, but you’ll meet a few gentle hills along the way. Think quiet roads, fresh evening air, and that lovely Wicklow hush you only get when the tractors have gone home for the night.
You’re on paved roads the whole way, with marshals and signs keeping everyone on track. It’s a good one for beginners, but don’t mistake it for a stroll, especially if you’re eyeing the 10K. The terrain will make you work just enough to earn that medal at the finish.
Speaking of…
Pick Your Bling
Every finisher gets a bespoke Garden County medal, but here’s the twist, you don’t have to take it. If Wicklow flora’s not your thing, you can swap it out on the night for one of three “Proud to be Irish” medals instead. It’s like medal bingo, only better.
There’s also a proper 42K Running technical t-shirt included with your entry if you opt for the t-shirt package. These aren’t the scratchy cotton kind either, it’s breathable, race-ready gear you’ll actually want to wear again. Size availability depends on when you register, so don’t be leaving it to the last minute.
Prizes, Timing, and the Local Craic
It’s not a massive elite race, but there are prizes for the top two male and female finishers in both distances, 5K and 10K. So if you’re feeling quick, go for it. If not, no pressure. This is very much a “come as you are” event.
All races are chip timed courtesy of Pop Up Races, so even if you’re finishing mid-pack or strolling the 5K, your time is logged and tracked. There’s a water station, plenty of marshals, and if the local chatter is anything to go by, a lovely bit of cheering at the finish line.
And yes, post-race refreshments are on the cards. Don’t be surprised if you end up with a cup of tea in one hand and a medal in the other.
Event Essentials
📅 Date: Thursday 14th August 2025
⏰ Registration: From 5:30pm at Tinahely Community Hall
🕖 Start Times:
– 5K Walk: 7:15pm
– 5K & 10K Run: 7:30pm
📍 Start/Finish: Tinahely Community Hall, Y14 N228
⏱ Timing: Chip timed
🎖 Medals: All finishers
👕 T-Shirts: Tech tee included (if selected at entry)
🏆 Prizes: Top 2 M/F in both 5K and 10K
🥪 Post-race: Refreshments and banter in the hall
📝 Enter: here
Don’t Miss Out
It’s midweek, it’s brand new, and it’s got the kind of relaxed but rewarding atmosphere that makes summer racing in Ireland so good. Whether you’re chasing a time or just getting your steps in, the Garden County 5K & 10K is a cracking way to spend your Thursday evening.
📍 Just over an hour from Dublin, and well worth the trip.
