This weekend sees a number of intriguing races taking place all around the country. From Dublin across to Galway, and Cork up to Armagh, there’s plenty for people to get their runners on for!
Saturday October 7th sees the Simon Home Run return for 2023. Taking place over five miles through the scenic Phoenix Park, the Dublin Simon Community host this beautiful event where members of the local community run alongside volunteers, staff, teachers, students, and many more. They run, walk, or jog; coming together as a community to challenge themselves and show their support for those experiencing homelessness.
The second of the Gaelforce trilogy 10k series also takes place on Saturday. The Howth Summit 10k sees runners follow a unique trail which starts beside Howth Castle, taking in the view of Howth Hill. After climbing the hill and navigating changing terrain, the runners descend down the hill and head for the finish line at Deer Park Golf Club.
We now head across the country for the Run Galway Bay 10k, Half-Marathon, and Marathon which also takes place on Saturday October 7th. The race starts and finishes alongside the famous Claddagh Quay on the edge of Galway City, and the runners get to take in the gorgeous views of the coastline as they run through Salthill along the route.
Moving on to Sunday October 8th, we have four races for people to choose from. Starting in Limerick where we have the Cook Medical Mini Marathon 2023. The race has raised a staggering €100,000 for local charities over the last three years and organisers hope that this year continue in that same vein.
Staying in Munster, the Very Pink Run 2023 takes place in Bishopstown, Co. Cork. Since 2011, the Very Pink Run has raised in excess of €6 million, supporting ongoing research and education programmes nationally. There is a 5k run, jog, walk, or wheel, as well as a 10k Challenge. There is truly something for everyone, you can even take part virtually, and it’s all for a great cause!
Next up, we have the Armagh 10 Mile & 6k Fun Run. Taking place at the Navan Centre, this run has two distance options, with the 10-mile run being chipped, and the 6k non-chipped.
Finally, we have the Fast Lane ¾, Half-Marathon, and 10k taking place along the Grand Canal in Dublin. This race is naturally very suitable for those training for the Dublin Marathon. However, this flat and fast course is open to everyone who fancies a crack at a fast time.
You can find links to all these races and more on our very own Race Calendar here! https://runrepublic.com/find-a-race. If you would like to run but perhaps don’t feel comfortable in a race setting, you can find events that suit you here! https://www.parkrun.ie.