The inaugural Clonakilty 5 Mile Road Race takes place this Sunday, January 28th. The race will raise funds for two incredible charities; the Irish Red Cross and Cork Cancer Connect. All profits from the event will go to these causes, and the organisers of the race hope to make this event a staple in the Irish Athletics calendar for years to come.
Run Republic spoke to the organisers to learn more about the idea behind this event and what runners can expect on the day from this sold out race.
'I think the shared idea for the race was two fold: raise as much money as possible for our nominated charities, and make sure that all those that took part had as much fun as possible whilst doing so.
'The race itself is as much a community event as it is a race, and while we wanted to attract serious runners (and why we made sure the course was measured to AAI standard), we equally wanted to attract the casual runners and the walkers, our start line is for everyone!
'On the course itself, the start takes in historic Clonakilty town before it winds its way along the famous Clonakilty bay. Participants will spend a significant portion with the sea by their side and view out over both Ring harbour and Inchydoney island.
'The course then threads the countryside before coming past the colourful Clogheen cottages, and returning back to the event finish line at the Park Hotel Clonakilty. The course is very flat and has easily one of the most beautiful backdrops of any race in the country.
'For many people the highlight will be the finish area, where they will collect their event commemoration mug and enjoy an array of refreshments provided by local food providers and event sponsors, including Clonakilty Food Company, Irish Yoghurts, Wazzy Woo and Fig & Olive. There will also be a prize ceremony held with prizes for every age group from under 19 to over 60's!'
With the real premise of the event being to raise money for great causes, we asked the people behind the Clonakilty 5 Mile Road Race about their nominated charities; 'The Irish Red Cross are of course renowned for their humanitarian work at home and abroad but Cork Cancer Connect might not be as familiar to everyone, and they really should.
'Cork Cancer Connect is a compassionate community dedicated to supporting cancer patients and their families. Through personalized care, they offer a haven of understanding and practical help, easing the journey through diagnosis, treatment, and recovery. Their services, including transport, counseling, and support groups, are a lifeline, bringing hope and comfort during challenging times.
'Amazingly they currently receive no government funding, so we are delighted to do everything we can to support these extraordinary people doing extraordinary things.'
In this final week building up to the event, the race has completely sold out. 800 people will take to the start line in Clonakilty and run for great causes while enjoying the breathtaking scenery that Clonakilty has to offer.
This race truly has it all, and there is no reason why it cannot become one of the most popular road races in the country. Run Republic look forward to seeing how the inaugural event goes, and cannot wait to see where the Clonakilty 5 Mile Road Race goes from here!