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Latest News
Dublin Marathon Group Launches Annual Awards Celebrating Achievement, Impact and Legacy
Date Released: September 16th, 2026 Dublin Marathon Group Launches Annual Awards Celebrating Achievement, Impact and Legacy Dublin Marathon Group today launched the Dublin Marathon Group Awards, a new annual awards event to celebrate the people, performances and impact that define its events, while honouring those whose achievements, service and contribution have shaped the legacy of the Dublin Marathon. The Awards will recognise athletes, participants, volunteers, charities and communities across Dublin Marathon Group events, including the Irish Life Dublin Marathon, Irish Life Dublin Race Series and Dublin City Council Dublin City Half Marathon, celebrating the achievements and stories of today while recognising and preserving the heritage of those who have helped shape the Dublin Marathon for over almost five decades. Speaking about the launch, Seán Ó Riain, CEO of Dublin Marathon Group, said: “As we look towards the 50th running of the Dublin Marathon, we have an opportunity not only to celebrate where we are going, but also to recognise the people who have brought us to this point. Our events are far more than a finish time or a single day. They are shaped by elite athletes and first-time runners, volunteers, charities, organisers and communities, each contributing in their own
Dublin City Council Dublin City Half Marathon Raises Over €750,000 for Charities and Community Causes
Date Released: May 19th, 2026 Dublin City Council Dublin City Half Marathon Raises Over €750,000 for Charities and Community Causes Dublin Marathon Group is delighted to announce that participants and supporters of the 2026 Dublin City Council Dublin City Half Marathon have raised more than €750,000 for charities and community causes through a combination of domestic and international fundraising efforts. Now in only its second year, the Dublin City Council Dublin City Half Marathon continues to demonstrate the extraordinary impact that running events can have beyond race day — bringing communities together while generating vital funding for charities, support services and important social causes both in Ireland and internationally. The fundraising total reflects the generosity and commitment of thousands of runners, supporters and donors who used the event as an opportunity to support causes close to their hearts. Funds raised will directly support critical services across areas including cancer care, mental health, disability services, youth support, homelessness, family services and wider community initiatives. A significant contribution to the fundraising success came through Dublin Marathon Group’s Official Charity Partner, realbuzz, the global leader in charity running programmes. Through its international charity programme, realbuzz connected runners from around the world with fundraising opportunities and guaranteed entries into
Course Records Set in Men’s and Women’s Race in Dublin City Council Dublin City Half Marathon
Date Released: May 3rd, 2026 Dublin City Council Dublin City Half Marathon Course Records Set in Men and Women’s Race in Dublin City Council Dublin City Half Marathon Thousands of Runners take to the streets of Dublin for the Second Edition of the Race in ideal running conditions Tipperary’s Sean Tobin takes the win in the men’s field in course record of 63:11 improving on Killian Mooney 65:40 from the inaugural year of the race Sorcha Nic Dhomhnaill of Limerick set a course record of 71:25, over six and half minutes faster than the time run by last year’s winner Nichola Sheridan. SEAN Tobin (Clonmel AC) and Sorcha Nic Dhomhnaill (West Limerick AC) proved that class is permanent by storming to victory at an ultra-competitive Dublin City Council Dublin City Half Marathon, both setting new course records on the way to securing their wins. Tobin (31), who struggled with injuries and illness in the past year, was delighted to win his first competitive ‘half’ in 63 minutes and 11 seconds after a tough tussle in the elite men’s field. He eventually came home 32 seconds clear of Dundrum South Dublin’s, Paul O’Donnell (63:43) and Donore Harrier’s John Travers who put in
Mooney Set to Defend Title in Dublin City Council Dublin City Half Marathon Field
Date Released: April 29th, 2026 Dublin City Council Dublin City Half Marathon Mooney Set to Defend Title in Returning Dublin City Council Dublin City Half Marathon Killian Mooney (Dundrum South Dublin A.C.) is set to defend his men’s title in the 2026 Dublin City Council Dublin City Half Marathon on Sunday, May 3rd. Mooney returns after winning the inaugural race in 1:05:40. Since then, the 31-year-old improved his personal best to 1:03:59 at February’s Napoli City Half Marathon, the second fastest Irish half-marathon time this year. In March, he debuted in the marathon with a 2:17:46 in Barcelona and earlier finished fifth in the Raheny 5 Mile with 23:43. Mooney’s clubmate Paul O’Donnell (DSD A.C) is also a top challenger, having run 2:09:19, the third fastest marathon ever by an Irishman, at February’s Sevilla Marathon. The 27-year-old’s half-marathon best is 1:04:46 from Berlin in 2022. Kevin Kelly of St Coca’s A.C., who finished runner-up last year in 1:07:02, returns to the start line but has been battling an injury in the lead-up to the race, which is likely to impact his ability to contend at the top of the field. Also lining up will be the Michael Fox (Letterkenny A.C.),
Everything You Need to Know – 2026 Dublin City Council Dublin City Half Marathon
Date Released: April 24th, 2026 Dublin City Council Dublin City Half Marathon Everything You Need to Know Dublin City Centre will come alive on Sunday, May 3rd as the sold-out Dublin City Council Dublin City Half Marathon returns for its second year, bringing thousands of runners onto the capital’s streets for one of its largest mass participation events. Starting on O’Connell Street from 8:30am, participants will take on the 21.1km route through the North Side, out towards Raheny and along the Clontarf seafront, before finishing in the North East Inner-City. Spectators are expected to line the course throughout the morning. Sold-out race reflects growing demand Following strong demand in its inaugural year, the 2026 event sold out in advance, with a ballot entry system introduced by the organisers Dublin Marathon Group to ensure fair access. Working closely with key stakeholders, race capacity for 2026 has been increased from 12,500 to 13,200 participants. Of these, 11,200 places were allocated through the public ballot, with the remaining entries allocated to charity partners, elite athletes, international tour operators and community participation programmes. Elite field set to lead the race Alongside the mass participation field, a competitive elite race will take place, with leading
Wave Allocations for the Dublin City Council Dublin City Half Marathon
Date Released: April 13th, 2026 Start Waves for the Dublin City Council Dublin City Half Marathon All participants are being emailed today with their allocated wave for the upcoming Dublin City Council Dublin City Half Marathon on May 3rd. Please note: We are aware of issues with links in some of the emails this morning. They are now being reissued by Eventmaster. IMPORTANT WAVE INFORMATION YOU CANNOT MOVE UP A WAVE BUT YOU CAN DROP DOWN TO ANY LOWER WAVE. Wave 1 is Orange, starting at 8:30am Wave 2 is Green, starting at 8:45am Wave 3 is Blue, starting at 9:00am Wave start times are subject to change, so ensure you are in the right start area well in advance. Due to the very large field, we use wave/staggered starts to ensure all runners can use the roads safely. Please ensure you enter the assigned wave. We look forward to welcoming you on race day!
2026 Finisher Medal Revealed for Dublin City Council Dublin City Half Marathon
Date Released: April 10th, 2026 2026 Finisher Medal Revealed for Dublin City Council Dublin City Half Marathon Inspired by the North East Inner-City finish, Luke Kelly, and the spirit of Dublin With just under four weeks to go until the 2026 Dublin City Council Dublin City Half Marathon, the finisher’s medal has been unveiled; inspired by the race’s North East Inner-City finish, the legacy of Luke Kelly, and the powerful community spirit that defines Dublin. That connection to place, people and movement is brought to life through the medal’s design. Paying tribute to one of Dublin’s most iconic cultural figures, the medal features Luke Kelly, legendary singer of The Dubliners, and a proud son of Sheriff Street in Dublin’s North East Inner-City. At its centre is the Luke Kelly statue, created by sculptor Vera Klute, which is located just steps from the finish line, grounding runners in the streets, stories and spirit of the community that welcomes them home. For participants, the 2026 finisher medal is both a cherished keepsake and a powerful reminder of the North Inner-City streets where they will complete the 21.1km on Sunday, the 3rd of May. As residents, volunteers, supporters and families line the route,
Irish Life Announce Second Year of Partnership with Dublin City Council Dublin City Half Marathon
Declan Bolger, CEO of Irish Life, pictured with Seán Ó Riain, CEO of Dublin Marathon Group, Race Director Jim Aughney, Irish Life staff members Dermot Murphy and Eimear Caulfied, to mark Irish Life’s continued partnership with the 2026 Dublin City Council Dublin City Half Marathon. Date Released: March 31st, 2026 Dublin Marathon Group is delighted to announce Irish Life an official partner for the 2026 Dublin City Council Dublin City Council Half Marathon. The race once again will start in the heart of the city in Dublin 1, also the home of the Irish Life campus, reinforcing the importance of local community within this continued partnership. As part of the collaboration, Irish Life will introduce Milestone Finisher prizes, recognising runners who cross the finish line at randomly selected positions. This initiative ensures that every participant’s effort is celebrated, reflecting a shared commitment with Dublin Marathon Group to providing an inclusive race experience where every runner feels part of Dublin’s running community.
Transfer Window – 2026 Dublin City Council Dublin City Half Marathon
Date Released: March 26th, 2026Event: 2026 Dublin City Council Dublin City Half Marathon If you can no longer take part in the 2026 Dublin City Council Dublin City Half Marathon, you can transfer your entry to another runner during the official transfer window. Transfer Window Opens: Thursday 2 April 9:00 AM Transfer Window Closes: Wednesday 8 April 11:59 PM TRANSFERS ARE ONLY AVAILABLE AT THIS TIME All transfers must be completed through the official Eventmaster transfer system. This ensures entry is placed in the new runner’s name so they receive their race number in the post and all important race communications, event updates, and their official race results. To keep the race fair and safe for everyone, entries cannot be sold, swapped, or transferred outside of the Eventmaster system. Any transfers outside the official process will be cancelled. FEE There is a €10 transfer fee (plus platform and payment charges) charged to the runner receiving the entry. For more information on transfers, please see our transfer page here.
Dublin Marathon Group Announces Decathlon as Partner
Date Released: March 25th, 2026Dublin Marathon Group Announces Decathlon as Partner Dublin Marathon Group is delighted to announce Decathlon as the newest partner of the 2026 Dublin City Council Dublin City Half Marathon. The partnership will see Decathlon play a key role in supporting both volunteers and race winners, reinforcing its commitment to accessible sport and active communities. Decathlon will provide volunteer jackets for race weekend ensuring the event’s volunteer team is equipped with high-quality technical apparel. Decathlon will also provide vouchers to race winners to celebrate the top performances of the day. Seán O’Riain, CEO of Dublin Marathon Group, said: “Our volunteers are the backbone of the delivery of race day, and we’re proud to partner with Decathlon to kit them out in high-quality apparel for 2026. This partnership enhances the event experience while recognising the incredible contribution of our volunteer community.” Elena Pecos, CEO of Decathlon, said: “We’re delighted to partner with the Dublin City Council Dublin City Half Marathon in 2026. Supporting volunteers and celebrating winners reflects our belief that sport should be accessible, inclusive and rewarding for everyone.” Empowering Participation at Every Level Decathlon’s mission to make sport accessible aligns closely with the values of the
Dublin Marathon Group Announces Two-Year Partnership with Grenade
Date Released: March 19th, 2026 Dublin Marathon Group Announces Two-Year Partnership with Grenade Official Protein Bar Partner to the Dublin City Council Dublin City Half Marathon and Irish Life Dublin Marathon Dublin Marathon Group is delighted to announce a new two-year partnership with leading performance nutrition brand Grenade, which will become the official Protein Bar Partner of the Dublin City Council Dublin City Half Marathon, the Irish Life Dublin Marathon and the Irish Life Dublin Race Series. The two-year partnership will support thousands of runners at a key recovery moment following both training and race-day performance. Grenade is globally recognised for its high-protein, great-tasting products. The collaboration reflects a shared commitment to fuelling runs, supporting recovery and promoting active lifestyles within Ireland’s running community. Supporting Runners When It Matters Most The post-race period represents a critical recovery window for runners of all abilities. Whether chasing a personal best or completing the distance for the first time, proper refuelling plays an important role in helping participants begin their recovery immediately after crossing the finish line. By providing high-quality protein products on race day, Grenade will support thousands of runners as they celebrate their achievement and start the recovery process. Seán O’Riain, CEO
Dublin City Council announced as Title Sponsor of the Dublin City Half Marathon
Dublin City Council Announced as Title Sponsor of the Dublin City Half Marathon Dublin City Council has been announced as the title sponsor of the Dublin City Half Marathon, which will take place on Sunday, 3rd May 2026. The race date has moved from March to the May Bank Holiday weekend, a change designed to better balance the needs of runners, and the wider city community. The ‘Dublin City Council Dublin City Half Marathon’ is organised by Dublin Marathon Group and will start at 8:30 am in the heart of Dublin City on O’Connell Street. The course will take runners through the north of the city before finishing back in the city centre. Building on Dublin City Council’s involvement as official event partner for the inaugural event in 2025, Dublin City Council’s confirmation as title sponsor reflects its continued commitment to supporting active lifestyles, public health, and inclusive city-centre events that bring people into the heart of Dublin. The ‘Dublin City Council Dublin City Half Marathon’, will welcome runners of all abilities, from beginners to experienced athletes. The mission of the event remains to create a vibrant racing experience that celebrates runners, the city of Dublin, and its people. The event theme is “Run
DUBLIN CITY HALF MARATHON RETURNS ON SUNDAY 3rd MAY 2026
Ballot System Ensures Fair Entry for All Following a highly successful first event, the organisers of the Dublin City Half Marathon have announced that the 2026 race will take place on Sunday, 3rd May. The event will move to a ballot-based entry process, following runner feedback on last year’s first-come, first-served system. This new approach aims to create a fairer process, giving all interested runners an equal opportunity to take part. The race date has also shifted from March to the May Bank Holiday weekend, a change designed to better balance the needs of runners, organisers, and the wider city community. Ballot Process The general ballot will be open for seven days from 7am on Friday the 16thJanuary until midnight on Thursday 22nd January on the Eventmaster website. The ballot URL will be published closer to the opening date. Entrants will be notified of their ballot outcome by email in batches between Wednesday, 28th January and Thursday, 29th January. Notifications will be issued in stages, with unsuccessful applicants notified first, followed by successful applicants. The full notification process may take up to two days to complete. The race capacity for 2026 is 12,500, agreed with statutory agencies to ensure participant
History Made at the Inaugural Dublin City Half Marathon as 12,000 Runners Take to the Streets
Killian Mooney and Nichola Sheridan Crowned First Champions The inaugural Dublin City Half Marathon took place on Sunday, March 30th, 2025, marking a major new milestone in the annual running calendar. Organised by the experienced team behind the Irish Life Dublin Marathon and Race Series, in partnership with Dublin City Council, the event underscored the capital’s commitment to hosting major sporting events that foster community participation and promote active, healthy lifestyles. Nearly 12,000 runners—from elite athletes and club competitors to charity fundraisers and first-time half marathoners—took to the streets, covering 21km in glorious sunshine through Dublin’s vibrant northside. With a start time of 8:30am on O’Connell Street, runners embarked on a scenic route supported by Dublin City Council, ensuring a seamless race day experience. Backed by Irish Life, a dedicated advocate for health and wellness, the event embodied the spirit of inclusivity and determination, reinforcing its theme: “Run Together – Thrive Together.” Killian Mooney and Nichola Sheridan made history as the first winners of the inaugural Dublin City Half Marathon. Mooney (29), from Dundrum South Dublin AC, broke away early to win what was only his third half marathon in 65 minutes 40 seconds. He came home almost a minute
Battle for Podium Places in the Inaugural Dublin City Half Marathon
Excitement is building ahead of the first-ever Dublin City Half Marathon, taking place on Sunday, 30th March, as some of Ireland’s top club runners prepare to battle it out for podium honours on the streets of the capital. The race promises to deliver competitive races, making for a thrilling debut edition of this landmark event on the Irish athletics calendar. Thousands of recreational runners will join the elite field at the starting line on Sunday, March 30th, at 8:30am on O’Connell Street. The event is proudly organised in partnership with Dublin City Council, the official event partner. Backed by Irish Life, a dedicated advocate for health and wellness, the event embodies the theme: “Run Together – Thrive Together.” In the men’s elite field, a close battle is expected between Evan Fitzgerald and Jake O’Regan. At the recent Mullingar Half Marathon, Fitzgerald (West Waterford AC) won with a time of 67 minutes 28 seconds, closely followed by O’Regan (St. John’s AC) with 67:31. Hugh Armstrong (Ballina AC) brings serious credentials to the field with a personal best of 1:03:37—ranking him as the sixth-fastest Irish man of all time over the half marathon distance. A former European Championship marathon representative, Armstrong also claimed the
Road Closures and Public Transport – 2025 Dublin City Half Marathon
Date Released: March 20th, 2025Event: 2025 Dublin City Half Marathon ROAD CLOSURES can be found HERE The inaugural Dublin City Half Marathon will take place on Sunday, March 30th, 2025, marking an exciting new addition to the city’s running calendar. The following road closures will apply for the duration of the race, and parking restrictions will be placed in these areas during the times listed below. Please note that North Strand and the Clontarf Roads will remain open in both directions all day. Drumcondra Road outbound will remain open all day; traffic incoming from the M1 will be diverted at Whitehall Church; please follow the diversions. Dublin City Half Marathon Road Closures Public Transport & Alternative Routes The event will impact public transport services, and diversions will be in place. Runners, motorists, and commuters are advised to plan ahead and consider using public transport where possible. Use the TFI Journey Planner / TFI Live App to plan your route. Bus diversions will be in place during the race for Dublin Bus, Bus Éireann and Go-Ahead Ireland services. This includes O’Connell Street, Malahide Road, Coast Road, Howth Road, Drumcondra, Santry, Gardiner Street and Clontarf. Dublin Bus updates are available here. Go-Ahead Bus
Everything you Need to Know – 2025 Dublin City Half Marathon
Date Released: March 20th, 2025Event: 2025 Dublin City Half Marathon Run Together – Thrive Together The inaugural Dublin City Half Marathon is set to take place on Sunday, March 30th, 2025, marking an exciting new addition to the city’s running calendar. Organised by the experienced team behind the Irish Life Dublin Marathon and Race Series, in collaboration with Dublin City Council official event partner, the event highlights the city’s commitment to supporting major sporting events that inspire community participation and active lifestyles. The race will begin at 8:30 AM on O’Connell Street, guiding participants through the northside of the city before finishing in the city centre. With the valued support of Irish Life, a dedicated advocate for health and wellness, the event aims to celebrate fitness, community, and the growing demand for half marathons in Dublin. Under the theme “Run Together – Thrive Together”, runners, spectators, and the wider community are invited to come out and support runners on the route. Race Day Instructions for Runners FINAL INSTRUCTIONS Waves: To ensure a smooth race day experience, participants have been assigned wave starts, with Wave 1 (Orange) beginning at 8:30 AM, Wave 2 (Green) at 8:45 AM, and Wave 3 (Blue) at
Tracker Link for 2025 Dublin City Half Marathon
Date Released: March 18th, 2025Event: 2025 Dublin City Half Marathon The competitor tracker link for the 2025 Dublin City Half Marathon is now available on the link below. https://rtrt.me/dchm2025
Final Instructions – 2025 Dublin City Half Marathon
Date Released: March 11th, 2025Event: 2025 Dublin City Half Marathon The final instructions for the 2025 Dublin City Half Marathon are now available on the link below. Dublin City Half Race Instructions
Route Map Revealed – 2025 Dublin City Half Marathon
Date Released: February 28th, 2025Event: 2025 Dublin City Half Marathon We are delighted to share that the 2025 Dublin City Half Marathon course details are available here. The route takes runners out of the north of the city and finishes back in the city centre.
Transfer Window Opens on Friday, February 21st 2025
Date Released: February 20th, 2025Event: Dublin City Half Marathon The general sales for the 2025 Dublin City Half Marathon sold out on the first day of entries. Runners will now have the chance to secure additional spots through the opening of the transfer window, which will be available from Friday, February 21st, to Sunday, March 9th 2025 All current entrants have been emailed with details on how they can transfer their place to another runner. There is a €5 fee for the person receiving the entry. Runners who take up a ticket are advised to ensure it is a valid entry https://eventmaster.ie/findticket.html.