Everything You Need to Know Before You Run
Get ready for an unforgettable running experience through the heart of County Kildare, starting and finishing at the iconic Shackleton Museum in Athy town centre.
Race Day Schedule - Sunday 9th August 2026
- 8:00am - Registration and race pack collection opens
- 09:45am - Half Marathon START at Shackleton Museum
- 10:00am - 10k Run START at Shackleton Museum
- 10:05am - 5k Fun Run START - Family-friendly wave
- 10:22am - First 5k finishers expected
- 10:35am - First 10k finishers expected
- 11:07am - First half marathon finishers expected
- 12:45pm - FINISH LINE CLOSED
All times are approximate and subject to change
The Courses
Half Marathon (21.1km)
Follow in the footsteps of Ernest Shackleton's spirit of endurance on our scenic half marathon course through Athy and County Kildare.
- Start/finish at the historic Shackleton Museum at 9:45am
- Excellent road surface with little elevation for fast times.
- Scenic countryside loop with views of the Barrow Valley
- Return through Athy's charming town centre for a spectacular finish
Athy 10k Course
Experience the best of Athy on our single-loop 10k course, perfect for those seeking a challenging but achievable distance. starts at 10am
Runners stepping up from 5k or experienced athletes chasing times.
Athy 5k Fun Run
Our family-friendly 5k takes you on a tour of Athy's historic town centre - perfect for runners of all ages and abilities. starts at 10:05am
Families, first-time runners, walkers welcome.
What's Included in Your Entry
Every runner receives:
- Precision Chip Timing
- Commemorative Finisher Medal
- Quality Athlete Gift
- Event Insurance
- Free Ice cream at the finish
Race day facilities:
- Race day photographers
- Toilet facilities at start/finish and on course
- Water stations positioned where you pass multiple times
Getting to Athy - Travel Information
From Dublin:
M7 to Junction 13, follow signs to Athy
(approximately 1 hour)
From Cork:
M8 to M7, then Junction 13 to Athy
(approximately 2 hours)
M1 to M50, then M7 to Junction 13
M1 to M50, then M7 to Junction 13
(approximately 2.5 hours)
Race Day Essentials
What to Bring:
- Photo ID
- Appropriate running gear
- Post-race warm clothes
- Small amount of cash for refreshments
- Positive attitude - The most important item!
Weather Considerations:
The Athy Half Marathon runs in all weather conditions. August in Ireland can be changeable, so come prepared for anything from sunshine to showers!
Medical Support:
Your safety is our top priority. We provide:
- Qualified first aiders on site
- Medical stations at key points including start/finish
- Ambulance support on standby
- Defibrillators available
- Emergency contact system for immediate response
Course Safety Features:
- Fully closed roads - No traffic throughout the entire course
- Experienced marshals at every junction and key points
- Clear course marking with distance markers
- Safety briefing information
- Emergency evacuation procedures
Runner Safety Guidelines:
- Follow all marshal instructions
- Stay on the designated course at all times
- Report any incidents to the nearest marshal
- Carry emergency contact details with you
Contact Information
Race Director:
John Wallnutt
Email:
Ready to take on the challenge? The historic town of Athy is waiting to welcome you to an unforgettable running experience. Register now and become part of our growing running family!
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