CCM 2026 Programme a5 Final May

Analog Devices Cork City Marathon is a huge event across the sporting, social and economic life of Cork City and we are thrilled to welcome our runners, joggers, walkers, and supporters back to the city’s streets on Sunday May 31 st 2026 Cork Welcomes You

Cork City Marathon 2026

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Cork City Marathon 2026

A MESSAGE FROM LORD MAYOR 5 A MESSAGE FROM CORK CITY COUNCIL CHIEF EXECUTIVE 7 A MESSAGE FROM DIRECTOR OF SERVICE CORPORATE, COMMUNITY & CULTURAL AFFAIRS 8 A MESSAGE FROM RACE DIRECTOR 9 A MESSAGE FROM ANALOG DEVICES 11 A MESSAGE FROM THE FAMILY OF ELLEN CASSIDY 12 2026 ROUTE MAP 14 REGISTRATION & EXPO AT CITY HALL 15 RACE STARTS LOCATIONS & TIME 16 THE EXCLUSIVE 150 CLUB 17 EARLY MARATHON DAYS ON THE STREETS OF CORK 19 NATIONAL HALF MARATHON CHAMPIONSHIPS 2026 22 THE ROUTE 23 WHY WE GOT INVOLVED - ANALOG DEVICES 33 ANDY GOULDING 35 CORK CITY COUNCIL’S WOMENS CAUCUS SHERACES RUNNER OF THE YEAR 37 LORD MAYORS PRIZE WINNER 38 ELLEN CASSIDY SPIRIT OF RUNNING AWARD 2026 39 THE MEDALS 2026 40 ROLL OF HONOUR MARATHON/HALF/10K 42 COMMUNITY PROJECTS 46 MARION LYONS 52 THE 10K 54 THE HALF MARATHON 57 THE MARATHON 56 PACERS 61 PARK & RIDE 67 FULL ROAD CLOSURE LIST 68 FULL MARATHON CHECKPOINT TIMINGS 76

Message from The Lord Mayor

I am absolutely delighted to welcome you all to the banks of the River Lee for this year’s Analog Devices Cork City Marathon - a flagship event for Cork City Council, one that showcases the very best of our city. Over the past few weeks and months, you have braved early mornings, dark evenings, rainy nights, long runs and tough training sessions, maybe you have had to overcome injury, and maybe you have had doubts about taking part. But you have pushed through, driven on by your own special reasons for participating, by your own personal inspiration. You have built strength, you have improved your fitness and your health, and you have endured. Now, it’s time to trust your training, Whether you’re chasing a podium finish, a personal best, or simply determined to cross the finish line, your achievement already is extraordinary. You have already accomplished something special just by getting to the start line. Today is a day to remember and to reflect on how you got here, and those who helped. to embrace the very special atmosphere, and to begin.

We remember in a very special way Ellen Cassidy, and her family and her friends. We have worked closely with Ellen’s family to ensure her memory is honoured in a thoughtful, respectful and meaningful way. This year’s medals carry a special tribute to Ellen. Drawing inspiration from the Claddagh ring, the medals include her name inside a yellow heart. Race t-shirts will include the symbol too, with the half marathon t-shirt design predominantly built around the symbol. Twenty four yellow balloons will be released at the start of the half marathon - one for each year of her short but impactful life – and perpetual cups will be presented to the winners of the Male and Female Half Marathon Races. Cork City Council also plans to repair and paint in yellow a bench on the Marina in her memory. Members of

Cork City Marathon 2026

her family and friends taking part in the 10K and Half Marathon in her honour. We wish them well. We will be with them every step of the way. We extend our sincere thanks to all those who make this day possible: the organising team, officials, and the many volunteers who will line the route and support the water stations. Your dedication ensures a safe and enjoyable experience for all. Our sincere gratitude also goes to the staff of Cork City Council, An Garda Síochána, the Defence Forces, Athletics Ireland and the Business Houses Athletic Association, the HSE, Civil Defence, medical teams, sponsors, Cork Sports Partnership, local clubs, community groups, and the ever-enthusiastic Cork supporters. Each of you plays a vital role, and without your commitment, this event would not be possible. A special word of appreciation goes to the many charities involved this year. The Cork City Marathon continues to inspire incredible generosity, with 2026 shaping up to be a record- breaking year for fundraising. This spirit of giving truly reflects the heart of our city.

We are also proud to stand alongside our participants from Direct Provision centres and the Sanctuary Runners, whose contribution embodies inclusion, solidarity, and friendship. Your presence enriches this event in the most meaningful way. For our younger participants in the Youth Challenge race, and for everyone taking part in the 10k - thank you for being part of this great occasion and bringing your energy to race day. As a proud member of the Healthy Cities initiative, Cork is committed to promoting active, healthy lifestyles - and today is a wonderful celebration of that vision in action. So, as you line up on race day, take a moment to reflect on how far you’ve come. Then step forward with confidence, soak up the atmosphere, support one another, and most importantly - enjoy it. Best of luck to each and every one of you.

Enjoy & endure! Cllr Fergal Dennehy Lord Mayor of Cork

Cork City Marathon 2026

Message from Cork City Council Chief Executive A céad míle fáilte from all of us in Cork City Council to all of you who are taking part in the Analog Devices Cork City Marathon. We’re incredibly proud to organise and deliver such a wonderful event. Now in its 18th year, the marathon has grown into an event with real international appeal, welcoming elite athletes alongside first-timers - and that mix is what makes it so special. Many of you return year after year, bringing new people with you and helping the event grow stronger every time. This year also brings an exciting new chapter, with a new start and finish line adding fresh energy to race day while keeping everything people love about the marathon at its heart. What you might not always realise is the huge impact you have on the city. Whether you’re running, walking, volunteering, supporting, fundraising, or just soaking up the atmosphere, simply by being here, you’re contributing to something really positive - celebrating community, health, inclusion, and achievement.

I would like to extend my sincere thanks to the Cork City Council team and all our partners - An Garda Síochána, the Defence Forces, Athletics Ireland, the HSE, emergency and medical services, local businesses, clubs, and community groups - to the marathon sponsors, Analog Devices, and especially to our fantastic volunteers. We couldn’t do this without you. Interagency cooperation and teamwork makes this day happen. We’re also grateful to the many supporters who line the streets each year and create that unforgettable atmosphere that carries participants all the way to the finish. We hope you have a brilliant time in Cork - enjoy the course, and enjoy the city itself. I wish you all the very best of luck. Go n-éirí an bóthar libh.

Valerie O’Sullivan Chief Executive, Cork City Council

Cork City Marathon 2026

Message from Director of Services, Corporate, Community & Cultural Affairs It’s a real pleasure to welcome you all to Cork City today for the Analog Devices Cork City Marathon. We wish you all luck, whether you’re competing in the marathon, half marathon or 10k. Cork is a city of welcomes - and this event reflects that spirit at its very best. This is a marathon built on community, inclusion, and bringing people together. It’s a race for everyone, regardless of background, ability, or experience - something we’re incredibly proud of. Cork City Council’s Community Support Programme continues to open doors and break down barriers to participation - from reduced entry for those on social welfare, to initiatives like Run for All, Youth Challenge, the SheRACES female training programme, Back 2 Boston, United by Miles, and of course the inspiring Sanctuary Runners, who will have over 200 participants from the direct provision system, and hundreds more running in solidarity with them.

It’s a powerful reflection of what this event stands for - friendship, solidarity, and belonging - and shows Cork leading the way when it comes to truly inclusive participation in sport. Whether you’re here to run, walk, support or simply take it all in, you’re part of something special. Enjoy the weekend, enjoy your race, and enjoy everything our great city has to offer. Rebecca Loughry, Director of Services, Corporate, Community & Cultural Affairs Directorate

Cork City Marathon 2026

Message from Race Director On behalf of the organising committee, it is my pleasure to welcome you to this year’s Analog Devices Cork City Marathon. As Race Director, I want to recognise the dedication each participant has shown in preparing for this event, and to acknowledge the many partners who make it possible. Firstly, I would like to thank our Title Sponsor, Analog Devices, and to welcome them to their first year as title Sponsor of the Analog Devices Cork City Marathon. Their support is greatly appreciated. It has enabled us to expand the race and, importantly, to continue supporting the community groups who volunteer week after week and make such a meaningful difference in their localities. We extend our sincere appreciation to the Gardaí for their coordination and support; to the medical teams for their expertise and readiness; to the Cork Athletics Board and the BHAA for their guidance and collaboration; to the volunteers, whose commitment underpins every element of the race; and to the Army, whose assistance contributes greatly to the smooth running of the event. We also wish to thank our partners and sponsors: The Examiner, 96FM, C103, The Runners Diary Podcast , the Running Buddy App, Kevin

O’Leary Motors, Keanes Jeweller s, and Vita Coco . Their continued support strengthens this event year after year. I would like to personally thank all members of the various committees and subgroups who give up their free time to ensure no stone is left unturned. The Technical Committee - David Walsh, Anna O’Brien, Pat Walsh, John Quigley, Michael Flynn, Graham Meikle, Kevin Cummins, Stephen Geoghan, and Denis O’Sullivan - have been a pleasure to work with. Two long standing cornerstones of the group, David Walsh, who has led day to day operations from the Council side, and John Quigley, both AIMS Measurer and County Board Representative, are moving on. John is heading into a well earned retirement, and Dave is taking up a new role in the Housing Department following a well deserved promotion. Both will be a significant loss to the Technical Committee. I am also fortunate to have the expertise of our Runners Advisory

Cork City Marathon 2026

Committee - Alex O’Shea, Brian Ahern, Karen Bevan, and Ruairi Egan. Their input since 2024 has been pivotal in the improvements we have made over the past couple of years. The Medical Sub Committee - Dr. Jason Van De Velde, Veronica Forde, Michael O’Reilly, Cian O’Brien, and David Good - have provided expertise, dedication, and professionalism over many years, and continue to lead a thoroughly exceptional medical team. The Garda team, led by Chief Superintendent Colm Noonan , have been outstanding. Their insight, knowledge, and above all their approachability throughout the year have been crucial to us. A special word of thanks goes to Tony O’Brien of Elite Risk Services, who heads up our Health & Safety and operations wing. Tony’s expertise is second to none, and he is, without question, the first name on the team sheet. We have ambitious goals for charity fundraising. In 2024, we raised €170,000; in 2025, with a dedicated campaign, this increased to €308,000; and in 2026, we hope to significantly increase this again. We will not rest until this figure exceeds

€500,000 per annum. To the community groups that we support and who are now so closely connected to this race - The Sanctuary Runners, United by Miles, Back2Boston, the Traveller Visibility Group, and The Revelate Warriors from the Crann Centre - your spirit keeps us going. A special mention also to the Forever 19 Challenge and the Kevin Sinfield Challenge, both of which we have been proud to support this year. We pledge to continue supporting groups that selflessly make a significant contribution to their communities. This year, we remember the short life of Ellen Cassidy. We are here to support her family in any way we can. We ask runners to take a moment to remember Ellen and to show support to her family and friends this June weekend. We have worked diligently to provide an enjoyable and well supported race experience. I encourage you to embrace the challenge, appreciate

the support along the route, & take pride in your achievement.

Eamon Hayes Race Director

Analog Devices Supporting Community, Wellbeing and Opportunity Analog Devices Inc (ADI) is proud to be the title sponsor of the Analog Devices Cork City Marathon, one of Ireland’s most important and inclusive sporting events. When we first sat down with Race Director Eamon Hayes and Cork City Council, the alignment was immediate - the Analog Devices Cork City Marathon isn’t just a race, it’s an event that prioritizes the community. ADI has been part of the Cork community for over 25 years, and in Ireland for 50 years with teams across Cork, Limerick and Dublin. As a global leader in semiconductor technology, our work is about helping make systems and devices smarter whether that relates to healthcare, clean energy or the wearable technology many runners rely on to track performance. The Analog Devices Cork City Marathon reflects many of the values that matter to us at ADI. It is a non profit event that reinvests directly into local charities, community groups and initiatives that encourage participation across all ages and abilities. From first time runners to elite athletes, the marathon brings together people from every background with a shared sense of determination, commitment and community pride. What truly sets the Analog Devices Cork City Marathon apart is its commitment to breaking down barriers. It partners with organisations like the Sanctuary Runners to support those living in direct provision. It works with Munster Sports

Partnership to provide free entries for people with disabilities. It collaborates with Back2Boston, founded by our own ADI colleague John Kinsella, to sponsor young runners from disadvantaged communities. And through SheRACES, it actively drives female participation in running. These are the kinds of initiatives that mirror our own values of inclusion and community impact. Our sponsorship supports the continued growth of the event in a way that is meaningful and sustainable, helping to improve the race day experience, expand capacity, and support initiatives focused on inclusion, wellbeing and youth participation. It also strengthens Cork’s position as a city that champions sport, health and community connection. On race day, many ADI employees will be running, volunteering and cheering from the sidelines. We are delighted to be part of an event that brings such energy to the city and creates a positive impact long after the final runner crosses the line. We wish all participants the very best of luck and hope you enjoy every step of the journey through Cork.

Best of luck to you all!

Brendan O’ Dowd Managing Director, Precision Technology and Ireland Site Lead at Analog Devices

Cork City Marathon 2026

The family of Ellen Cassidy would like to sincerely thank everyone who is making a special effort to come out in support of Ellen’s memory at this year’s Analog Devices Cork City Marathon, whether by running or simply being there on the day. Ellen tragically passed away while taking part in last year’s Half Marathon, doing something she truly loved. Her memory will be honoured this year by her friends, family, fellow runners, and the event organisers, and it means so much to us to see so many people coming together in her name. We encourage everyone supporting to wear yellow on the day in memory of Ellen, as it was her favourite colour. We would also like to express our heartfelt thanks to Cork City Council for the beautiful tributes they have created in Ellen’s honour, including placing Ellen’s name and a yellow heart on this year’s race jerseys and medals, releasing yellow balloons at the start of the half marathon, establishing the Ellen Cassidy Perpetual Cups for the Half Marathon, and creating a beautiful yellow bench in her memory at the Marina Promenade. The support shown means far more than words can express and ensures that Ellen’s spirit will always remain part of this special event and of the city she loved.

This run is for you Ellen. With sincere gratitude, Tom, Violet, Charlie & Mary

Cork City Marathon 2026

If you want to run fast run alone

If you want to far run TOGETHER

MAP LEGEND

New Route Map

Marathon Mile Marker

Marathon Route

CORK CITY MARATHON ROUTE Half Marathon Mile Marker Half Marathon Route 10 Kilometer Route 10 Kilometer Marker

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Registration & Expo at City Hall

ALL RUNNERS WILL NEED TO REGISTER AT THE EXPO & PICK UP THEIR RACE NUMBERS, T-SHIRTS AND GIFTS. Entrance Albert Quay side. Even if you are not participating in this year’s Marathon, come on down and chat to the exhibitors and stock up on some of your apparel for the coming season.

Registration and Expo will take place in City Hall, Cork City. Eircode T12 T997 Friday 29 th May from 12 Midday - 7pm Saturday 30 th May from 11am to 6pm.

List of Exhibitors:

Analog Devices Cork City Marathon Merch The Edge Sports Elvery Sports Decathlon John Buckley Sports 42K The Runners Diary Inkspire Soleful Steponesocks Allstrings Attached Running Buddy Altar Nutrition

Greg Dillon Buff Barrier PaceMates Apex Nutrition Meet the Pacers Charity Zone

Cork City Marathon 2026

Race Starts Locations & Times

Full Marathon PLEASE NOTE NEW START LOCATION

8.15am 31 st May on Grand Parade Assembly is from top of South Mall only at junction of Parnell Place. Wave 1: 10:15am: Sunday 31 st May on Monahan Road. Wave 2: Lead by the 2 Hour Pacers will start at 10:30.

Half Marathon

10k

8.45am 31 st May on South Mall

PLEASE NOTE NEW START LOCATION

Runners must assemble at 8:15 on Parnell Place and will be walked down South Mall after the Full Marathon has started.

BAG DROP: City Hall, Eglington Street, Cork City T12 H795 Open 7am to 5pm

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From World Records to the Formation of the Exclusive 150 Club

Alex O’Shea’s Burning Ambition.

Alex’s commitment to charity remains tireless. In 2018, he completed the staggering challenge of 32 marathons in 32 counties in under 16 days. Despite his global exploits, Alex’s heart remains in Cork. He has returned to his home race as a top-10 finisher, a pacer, and a dedicated volunteer. 2027: Can Lightning Strike Twice? To celebrate the 150th Anniversary of the Cork City Fire Brigade in 2027, Alex is returning to where it all began. But this time, he’s upping the stakes. Alex will once again “toe the line” in full fire gear, but with a grueling addition: he will also be wearing and breathing through a Breathing Apparatus (BA). This introduces a daunting set of hurdles: Restricted Vision: The mask limits his peripheral awareness of the road and fellow runners. Extreme Heat Stress: The fire suit and mask trap body heat, making temperature regulation extremely difficult. Air Management: Alex must carry a heavy tank and backplate, changing cylinders numerous times while the race clock continues to tick. He can only hydrate by stopping completely to remove his gear.

In 2014, at age 40, Alex O’Shea stood at the start line of the Cork City Marathon with a goal that seemed impossible. It was his first-ever marathon, but he wasn’t just running for a finisher’s medal. Clad in his full, heavy fire kit, Alex didn’t just break the Guinness World Record for the fastest marathon in firefighter gear - he shattered it. Crossing the line in 3:41:10, he took nearly an hour off the previous record set only weeks earlier in London. In doing so, he raised vital funds for the Irish Guide Dogs for the Blind and earned the nickname that stuck: “The Running Fireman.” At the time, Alex was balancing his running with life as a father to four children under the age of six & career as a firefighter. “Preparation was key” A Decade of Endurance Since that historic day, Alex hasn’t slowed down. He has become a titan of the Irish ultra-running scene, earning national medals at 50km, 100km, 24-hour distances & breaking the national 6hr record. He has donned the Irish singlet five times and conquered some of the most brutal footraces on the planet—from the scorching heat of the Spartathlon race in Greece to the sub-zero extremes of the Arctic.

Cork City Marathon 2026

Join “The 150 Club”

How to Get Involved

Alex isn’t just running for the record books; he’s running for a community. To honor 150 years of Cork Fire Brigade’s service, he is inviting 150 people to join “The exclusive 150 Club.” This team will support the Irish Guide Dogs for the Blind, turning their personal marathon journey into a collective mission. Whether you are a seasoned athlete or a total beginner, there is a place for you. Members of the exclusive 150 Club will receive: Expert & Peer Support: Access to a dedicated WhatsApp group for advice and motivation. Tailored Training: Plans designed to fit your life, catering to everyone from first- timers to veterans. Inspiration: Tips from guest speakers on training, mindset, nutrition & clothing. A commemorative “Team” T-shirt and access to exclusive spot prizes. “Could this be the biggest charity team the Cork City Marathon has ever seen? Together, let’s make history.”

If you want to be part of this historic experience, contact Alex directly at therunningfireman.ie. You can also follow his journey on Instagram @therunningfireman make sure to like the page. If you’ve ever dreamt of completing a marathon, let that “someday” start today. Join the 150 Club and let’s make it happen together.

Alex O Shea The Running Fireman

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Early Marathon Days on the Streets of Cork By John Walshe The choice of marathons nowadays is endless, both at home and abroad. Such was not the case in the late 1970s when just three or four took place during the entire year on the island of Ireland. The BLE national championship, held in spring or early summer, was the main attraction where entries rarely reached 100, all male and club runners. That all changed in October 1980 when the first Dublin City Marathon took place. Six months later, a headline in the then-Cork Examiner read: “Cork marathon fever begins. Close on 10,000 runners could throng the streets of Cork next Easter Monday for the inaugural running of the adidas Cork City Marathon.” A number of possible courses were considered. Jack O’Leary from St Finbarr’s AC, an engineer with Cork Co Council, measured the selected route. It started out the old Mallow Road and then came through Blackpool, MacCurtain Street, North Gate Bridge and along the Mardyke. Out the Carrigrohane Straight, on to Rossa Avenue and Wilton before returning to the city centre at 11 miles. The halfway mark was on the Marina, the route then went through Blackrock and Ballinlough and on to the Douglas Road, returning to the Tramore Road and 20 miles in Togher. Another two miles brought the runners through Glasheen and down Barrack Street to the finish on South Mall.

Easter Monday of April 12th finally arrived and in ideal conditions around 700 runners started out in what was for many a step into the unknown. Tullamore-man John O’Toole was first home in 2:20:40, followed 43 seconds later by Michael Walsh – brother of the more famous Donie – from Leevale. Another from that club, Marie Buckley, passed Dublin-based Cork native Catherine Sutton around 15 miles to win decisively in 3:08:17. That year of 1982, following the inaugural event, road running took off with over 8,700 finishers recorded at the Dublin Marathon. With the boom in full swing, it needed a star, a cult hero that the public and media could relate to. It found one in Jerry Kiernan. A live television audience that October saw the Kerry native set a tremendous pace in the capital, leading by nearly four minutes at 20 miles. But the wheels came off and although in an exhausted state, Kiernan held on to cross the line in the sixth-fastest time by an Irish man of 2:13:45. As he was now supported by adidas, Kiernan’s appearance in the southern showpiece on Easter Monday was virtually assured. A new course saw the race now starting and finishing on the South Mall. Kiernan duly obliged, winning in a time of 2:13:20, over three minutes ahead of Ray

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Treacy. Lucy O’Donoghue had only taken up jogging the previous year when she completed the marathon in 4:11:44. Now, with 12 months training behind her, she improved by almost an hour to take the title in 3:13:33, with Maura Curtin from North Cork second in 3:17:04. The following year of 1984 Cork was rewarded the national championship, which also doubled as the selection race for that summer’s LA Olympics. With a late Easter, the weather was unseasonably warm. The course was unchanged from the previous year and it soon developed into a showdown between Cork holder Kiernan and three-time national champion, Dick Hooper. Kiernan just held on to win, his time of 2:14:30 nine seconds clear of the Raheny man. But then the drama began. Because the size of the advertising logo on Kiernan’s vest transgressed IAAF rules, he was disqualified as national champion. The ironic fact was that he was wearing adidas apparel, the overall sponsor. At the prize presentation, Hooper was declared the winner. But when presented

with the winning trophy and medal, he turned and handed it to Kiernan and in a brief emotional speech said: “As much as it breaks my heart, I didn’t win this race and I now hand over the trophies to the real winner.” Although somewhat overshadowed, the women’s race saw Deirdre Nagle of Dublin City Harriers win her first marathon in 2:48:26, over a minute clear of Christine Kennedy from Galway. Sheila Curtin, sister of Maura, made it to the top spot in 1985 with a winning time of 3:01:23 with Billy Gallagher from Roscommon the first of the men in 2:18:58. There was a noticeable change for the fifth and final Cork City Marathon in 1986 as it took place a month later than normal, on Sunday May 25th. With numbers now dropping to around 400, Gallagher made it two wins in a row when coming home first in 2:20:12. And there was great local delight when Marion Lyons of St Finbarr’s crossed the finish line looking remarkably fresh, the clock showing 3:01:05 and making her the third Cork woman in five years to take the coveted title.

Jerry Kiernan

MARATHON RESULTS & PICTURE SPECIAL

Don’t miss your results in our Analog Devices Cork City Marathon 2026 Results and Picture Special supplement. Tuesday, June 2

MEDIA PARTNER

National Half Marathon Championships 2026 Analog Devices Cork City Marathon are delighted to host the National Half Marathon Championships 2026. We are looking forward to two amazing races. Jake O’Regan currently holds the men’s title with Anne Marie McGlynn holding the female title. Who will come out on top this year in two very strong fields? We wish all competitors the best of luck.

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Trip along the New Route

The Cork City Marathon Course is generally a flat course and is the flattest City Marathon in Ireland with the two worst hills on 19 and 21 miles.

They call it the Grand Départ in cycling - but in 2026, our marathon’s own Grand Départ will take pride of place on the Grand Parade. This year marks a return to the historic sporting heart of Cork, a centre that has hosted countless iconic sporting moments over the decades.

The Grand Parade (the clue really is in the name) gives us the space, atmosphere, and visibility to elevate the start and finish of the race. It becomes the new focal point of the event, a stage worthy of Cork’s running community and its supporters. For many, memories of Sean Kelly and Stephen Roche powering down the Grand Parade in the 1980s capture exactly the spirit we want to revive - fast, fearless, and unmistakably Cork. And with marathons of that same era finishing on the South Mall, this move brings us right back to the historic core of street sport in the city. 2026 isn’t just a new route. It’s a homecoming.

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Trip along the New Route

The curve of St Patrick’s Street follows the line of a river that once flowed freely along it. St Patrick’s Street has held many historic gatherings over the years with rallies from political figures such as Charles Stewart Parnell and Michael Collins. Many of the buildings were destroyed during the Burning of Cork in the War of Independence in 1920. Today it stands proud as the main street in Cork City . ½ mile in to your run you pass the Opera House on your left hand side as you continue on down the quay to cross the River Lee at North Gate Bridge. On the one mile mark you pass St. Marys Dominican Church on the left with the River Lee now on your right hand side. Following Sinn Féin’s victory in the local elections of January 1920, Tomás Mac Curtain was elected Lord Mayor of Cork on 31 January 1920. His tenure as the first Republican to hold the office, however, was cut short. In the early hours of his 36th birthday, on 20 March 1920, members of the RIC (the Royal Irish Constabulary) burst into his house in Blackpool and shot him dead in front of his family. The shocking murder brought near universal condemnation. At the coroner’s inquest into the killing, the jury passed a verdict of wilful murder against the British Prime Minister, Lloyd George, and various members of the RIC. Just before the Church of the Annunciation on Great William O’Brien Street, a monument to Mac Curtain stands on the right-hand side outside the Baldy Barbers’ shop. You’ll pass Mac Curtain’s house where he was murdered shortly after the two-mile mark, on the left-hand side just as you come onto Thomas Davis Street. It’s commemorated by a plaque over the Daybreak shop, opposite the church.

St. Patrick’s Street, Opera House, Dominican Church.

Tomás Mac Curtain & Blackpool

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Some of the world’s best cyclists have raced up St Patrick’s Hill, with its 25% gradient towards the top, over the years – from Sean Kelly, Stephen Roche and Sean Yates, in the Nissan Classic in the late 1980s and early 90s, to Frank and Andy Schleck, in the 2007 Tour of Ireland. In 2009 Lance Armstrong famously decided not to risk the tricky ascent during a torrential downpour. Today you are lucky – keep running along the flat banks of the River Lee and enjoy one of the flattest Marathons in Ireland. No climbing St Patrick’s hill for you! On the 4-mile mark along the banks of the lovely Lee look to the left and you will see a beautiful row of terraced houses called Myrtle Hill Terrace. Count 13 houses from the left and there is a house steeped in history. 13 Myrtle Hill Terrace was used as a safe house for Terence MacSwiney during the War of Independence in 1919/20. Terence MacSwiney was elected Lord Mayor of Cork in March 1920, succeeding the late Tomás Mac Curtain. In August 1920, he was convicted of possession of seditious material and died in Brixton Prison in October after 74 days of Hunger Strike. After registering for the marathon in City Hall, you’ll exit the main Concert Hall onto Terence MacSwiney Quay. MacSwiney and Mac Curtain are commemorated by two stone busts looking proudly over the river outside the City Hall. As you pass the Clayton Silver Springs Hotel on the left-hand side you are now in the leafy city suburb of Tivoli. The Cedar Trees in the area are reputed to have been planted by Sir Walter Raleigh. The Port of Cork dominates the riverside by Tivoli, with its container- handling facilities for oil, livestock and ore and car-import point. Until the 1980s, the Swansea-Cork ferry docked at the roll-on/roll-off ramp here. Roughly halfway along the Silversprings dual carriageway, you cross over from the City into the County of Cork.

Look left and be thankful that you only look up St Patrick’s Hill & don’t have to run up it!

Terence MacSwiney’s Safe House

Tivoli and Sir Walter Raleigh

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So far you have run 6 flat miles. The good news is that there’s another flat bit ahead for you to enjoy. From the six-mile marker, you are about to experience something unique. You are now about half a mile away from entering the Jack Lynch Tunnel, named in honour of an accomplished local sportsman and later Taoiseach. The Jack Lynch Tunnel is an immersed tube tunnel. It’s part of the South Ring Road (N40). The Tunnel takes the road under the River Lee and connects the South Ring Road with the M8 to Dublin, the N8 Road to the City Centre (which you’ve just run on) and the N25 to Waterford. It’s a unique experience running in an underwater tunnel. The north-bound bore is closed to traffic for the duration of the race, so enjoy it and don’t forget to holler OGGY OGGY OGGY, OI OI OI! After all that excitement, as you approach the 7-mile marker you begin to see light at the end of the tunnel (sorry couldn’t resist). Just 19 more miles to go! We now have a hill out of the tunnel and onto the N40. After 6.5 miles of dead flat, it’s time to give the legs a small bit of a warm-up in the tunnel. This hill isn’t too bad and flattens out relatively quickly after you exit the tunnel. If you are visiting Cork for the weekend and fancy some out-of-town shopping, you are in the right place. You now take the slip road up past Mahon Point Shopping Centre. You won’t have your wallet or purse with you but that’s ok, it’s not open yet anyway. Call back after the race when it’s open and reward your efforts with a cup of coffee and get yourself something nice to remember your achievements in Cork.

The Jack Lynch Tunnel

Shopping Heaven

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If you are visiting Cork for the weekend and fancy some out-of-town shopping, you are in the right place. You now take the slip road up past Mahon Point Shopping Centre. You won’t have your wallet or purse with you but that’s ok, it’s not open yet anyway. Call back after the race when it’s open and reward your efforts with a cup of coffee and get yourself something nice to remember your achievements in Cork. Just before the 11-mile mark, you’ll see the picturesque Blackrock Castle ahead. Perched on the shore of Lough Mahon, the castle was originally built as a fortified defence in the 16th century to protect the upper harbour and port. The castle was destroyed by fire twice, in 1722 and again in 1827, after which the castle as we see it today was designed by James and George Pain. Within the castle, you can explore the universe at the CIT Blackrock Castle Observatory, or enjoy a meal in the Castle Café and Restaurant in the courtyard – a lovely setting away from the hustle and bustle of city life. After the Castle, you enter the flat walkway that sweeps along the edge of Lough Mahon. We are being very good to you, another flat mile completed as you pass the 12-mile mark. Take a look around and ask yourself, ‘have I ever run a City marathon in such a nice place?’. You have the beautiful River Lee estuary to your left and across the water are Rochestown and Passage West. Next up it’s time to catch the train! Just before the 13- mile mark, we leave the Lough Mahon walkway using a steep bridge over the N40. But don’t worry, it’s just a short, steep hill and the rewards are worth it. Down off the short bridge and you enter the Old Cork to Passage West Railway line and another dead flat section. This is a spectacular section of the course. This is Greenway heaven! You get about a mile and a half of this, so enjoy it. 27 Cork City Marathon 2026

Sporting Mahon & Blackrock

Blackrock Castle

The Lee Estuary

The Railway Line

After the old railway line and approx 14.5 miles into your journey, you come out onto the Marina. You are now on the banks of the River Lee again and in the newly opened Marina Park, directly across from where you were on mile 5. Now you have another feast in store. You are approaching the Historic Cork GAA Grounds Páirc Uí Chaoimh on the left. The redeveloped stadium opened in 2017. This is the heartbeat of Cork GAA and has hosted legends of the game since its original opening in 1976. Cork Legends of Hurling and Football, such as Ray Cummins, Jimmy Barry Murphy, Teddy McCarthy, Brian Corcoran and Seán Óg Ó Hailpín to name but a few, created some magical moments here over the years. In fact, legends of music have also played here including Michael Jackson, Prince, Bruce Springsteen, U2, The Stone Roses, Paul Weller and Oasis. You merge with the Half Marathon here. The Half Marathoners have the unique experience of running underneath the back of the stand. The Cork City Marathon organising Committee work very closely with the GAA and are grateful for their help and assistance.

Páirc Uí Chaoimh

Flat again all the way to the 16-mile mark via the Centre Park road where in October 2017 Storm Ophelia wreaked havoc knocking 27 trees. This is a noisy spot so soak in the atmosphere as you come back into the City via the old Jewish Quarter.

Centre Park Road and the Jewish Quarter

As you approach the 17-mile mark there is a gentle hill out the N27 South Link Road. We have to ask you to climb a sharp hill too, right on the 17-mile mark. You have been getting away with it up until now but to get back across the city we need to climb a short, sharp slip road up towards Turners Cross. This hurts, we won’t lie. However, it’s very very short and over very soon. After an almost completely flat 17 miles so far I’m sure you won’t

Turners Cross

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hold a small hill against us! At the top of this hill, you arrive downhill into Turners Cross. Turners Cross is best known for the football ground of the same name on your righthand side. It’s home to Cork City FC. Visiting Turners Cross is a rite of passage for most Cork people. The club boasts a proud tradition, with Hall of Famers Dave Barry, John Caulfield and Pat Morley household names for their exploits at ‘The Cross’. Another stadium on the 18-mile mark. This time it’s Munster Rugby’s second ground, Irish Independent Park (formerly Musgrave Park) on the righthand side. Rugby has a proud tradition in Cork with international household names such as Donal Linehan, Ralph Keyes, Ronan O’Gara, Peter Stringer and Donncha O’Callaghan adorning the rugby fields of Cork, Munster, Ireland and the World! We haven’t spoken about hills much because quite frankly they have been few and far between. However, we’ve got one here on the 18.5- mile mark. We are now in Ballyphehane, one of the early suburbs of Cork. Many of the main roads through Ballyphehane are named after the executed leaders of the 1916 Rising. Our hill is on Connolly Road, named after James Connolly. The climb itself could be described as a flat lead-up to a medium distance, medium gradient climb. It flattens out as you reach the 19 mile Mark. The compensation is that this is a truly Cork suburb, with fantastic local supporters who’ll cheer you up that hill! After roughly 19.5 miles you approach The Lough to your right. There aren’t many bodies of water identified simply by their geographical description but this is one. Everyone in Cork knows where The Lough is! It defines the area, and rightly so. It’s a shallow freshwater lake that’s one of the oldest official wildlife habitats in Ireland. Designated in 1881, it’s the protected home for numerous

Munster Rugby

Ballyphehane

The Lough

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species of wildlife. Give a wave to the swans as you run past. The 20-mile mark is up ahead.

From the 20.5-mile mark to 21 mile mark you are running downhill. Enjoy it, and it’s time to take a nice breather before the last climb of the day on Farranlea road. It’s our version of Heartbreak hill except it’s not really all that bad. More like a mild romantic disappointment rather than heartbreak! I tend to split this climb into three. It’s best described as one short, sharp climb followed by a plateau. A second long, light, almost flat gradient climb followed by a high, short step at the end. Confused? Don’t worry. You have the worst of the climb over you when you reach the top of the hill behind County Hall. When you come out towards Model farm Road there is a very short, sharp step up onto Model farm road. You’ve 21 miles down and the remaining 5 miles are flat. You know that the hills are behind you and glory is ahead. We now take you down a quiet country lane just to cover off everything. You’ve run on every kind of road Cork has to offer from bridges to tunnels, railways, greenways, motorways and now the country boreen! Get some fuel on here before you exit onto the Straight Road. You are now on the Carrigrohane ‘Straight’ Road (N22). As the name suggests, it is straight – you have a full mile, dead straight and dead flat, ahead before you reach the County Hall. Built in the mid-19th century, the Straight Road was served by trams in the late 19th/early 20th centuries. In the 1920s, it became one of the first concrete road surfaces in Great Britain or Ireland. Because it was built on a flood plain, the road and its surrounding areas have seen dramatic flooding, most recently in 2009. The Straight Road used to be part of a Grand Prix Circuit, believe it or not! Combined with the Model Farm Road,

Farranlea Road

The Last Leg!

Carrigrohane Straight

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it made for a nice looped circuit where The Cork Grand Prix was held in the late 1930s. The 1936 race was the first-ever motor race in Cork, and by 1938 Cork hosted the only motor race ever in Ireland to run to the then new International F1 rules. It was won by GP legend René Dreyfus of France, in a 4500cc Délahaye 145, averaging speeds of almost 93mph. Just imagine a former Monaco GP winner tearing down the Carrigrohane straight in an F1 car today! Due to the flat surface of the Straight Road, it has also proved suitable for motorbike and car speed trials, where the Irish Land Speed record was set many times. The Carrigrohane Straight hosted the finish to a stage of 1998 Tour De France. This Dublin to Cork stage was won by the Mapei rider Jan Svorada, in the year that the late Marco Pantani won the Tour. Enough talk of speed. At this stage in your run, you are no doubt going a lot slower than René Dreyfus or the Tour De France Peloton! You have got there. It’s County Hall. At one stage while you were running along the Straight Road you thought it was getting further away. But it’s here now. County Hall is the administrative headquarters for Cork County Council. The 67m-storey building opened in 1968, but the cladding was extensively redeveloped in the early 2000s. Oisín Kelly‘s statue, Two Working Men, stands outside the complex.

County Hall

Cork City Marathon 2026

After County Hall, you hang a left at the AIB Bank and a right down the Mardyke past the Mardkye Arena and the Sonia O’ Sullivan Track, named in honour of the Legendary runner from Cobh. Sonia won a host of titles from Gold Medals at European Championships for 3,000, 5,000 and 10,000 meters, Gold at the World Cross Country Championships for 4k and 8K, Silver at the 1993 World Championships in Stuttgart for 1500 meters and of course Gold at the 1995 World Championships in Gottenburg over 5,000 meters and Silver in the Sydney Olympics in 2000 for 5,000 meters. Further along the Mardyke is Fitzgerald’s Park on the left-hand side. A public park, Fitzgerald’s Park is also home to the Cork City Museum which is well worth a visit.

Sonia O’ Sullivan Track at the Mardyke

THE FINAL STRETCH

Now comes the exciting part. You’ve already banked an extra half mile compared to the old marathon route, and the finish is getting close. At the end of the Mardyke Walk, with just three quarters of a mile to go, you swing right onto Western Road and then onto Washington Street. Washington Street gives you a long, straight run in - the kind of stretch where you can hear the crowd before you can see them. The noise builds, the energy lifts, and suddenly you’re turning right at Singer’s Corner. Ahead of you, the finish line outside the City Library comes into view. Just after you cross it, look to your right. The statue there is of a very famous Cork man on a bike. Sadly, it’s not John Quigley, the AIMS measurer who painstakingly charts every inch of the course on his bicycle (and maybe it should be). Instead, it’s another legendary son of Cork - Michael Collins.

But at this point, none of that matters.

You’ve done it. You’ve run a marathon.

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Why we Got Involved

As title sponsor, we are delighted to support an event that has become such a powerful celebration of community, wellbeing and achievement. Each year, the Marathon brings thousands of people together in a shared moment of effort, encouragement and pride, and it continues to grow in strength and impact. There’s a natural connection between what we do at ADI and the world of running. Our semiconductor technology powers some of the most advanced sports wearables on the market, helping athletes of all levels track their performance and push their limits. The same spirit of precision, performance, and continuous improvement that drives our engineering drives the runners who take to the streets of Cork every summer. Supporting the marathon is about more than race day. It is about helping create opportunities, encouraging participation, and

contributing to initiatives that make a real difference in the communities where we live and work. We are grateful to partner with Cork City Council and to work alongside the incredible organisers, volunteers and local services who make this event possible. Through a collaborate approach we’re ensuring the marathon continues to evolve while staying true to its inclusive, community focused roots. To everyone taking part today, whether you are running, volunteering or supporting from the sidelines, thank you for being part of something special. We wish you a safe, enjoyable and memorable race. Best of luck to you all!

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Silversprings Kevin O Leary

Official Motor Group of

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Andy Goulding Hi my name is Andy Goulding, I am a marathon runner with Leevale AC but a lot of you may know me as one of the co-hosts for The Runners Diary Podcast.

been to a race nor did I see the attraction to it all. That day is a day I will never forget, what an experience, the support, the crowds, the buzz running around the streets of Cork, I couldn’t believe how much I loved it. At the time I had a lot of struggles in my life with a drug addiction and mental health issues. That day all be it only for a couple of hours, took me away from my worries and stress that surrounded me at the time. I always remember thinking the people that ran the marathon are just super human and I would love to be like them some day. I started taking running a bit seriously after that day while at the same time digging myself a deeper hole into the world of addiction. My life was hell for many years after this but I always found those couple of times a week that I went running was a massive escape for me. I think this is where my love for marathon running came from because the longer I ran meant the longer I was able to escape from the struggles I had in life. I battled on for another few years until eventually in July 2020 it all got too much and I tried to take my own life. What happened after that really showed me how special the running community is. I went into treatment for five months and on my return I was blown away by the support I received from everyone of my friends in the running community. Today I would say 95% of my friends I have met from running and it gives me so much joy to be able to share my running journey with like- minded people.

I am delighted to be running the Cork City marathon again this year for the fourth time. I have raced it in 2022 and 2023, I was also lucky enough to be one of the three hour pacers last year for the 2025 marathon. Cork Marathon always holds a special place in my heart, not only is it my home marathon but it was also my first ever race. Back in 2017 I ran the fourth leg of the relay with only a week’s notice after my brother in law got injured leading up to it. I honestly had never

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dream is to run a sub 2.30 marathon. How special would it be for me to do it in the Cork marathon over the next few years. I will continue to dream and hopefully some day this dream may come through.

This years Cork marathon is going to mean a lot to me as it will be the first marathon I’m racing since getting a sacral stress fracture back in February 2024. I kind of fell out of love after getting injured. For years I used running as a crutch to help me stay on the road to recovery. Now nearly six years clean and sober I no longer need to run but instead I can now just run for the love of it. I suppose the message I hope people get from this piece is that firstly, nobody is a lost cause, don’t ever be afraid or ashamed to ask for help, it is not a sign of weakness, in fact it is a sign of strength. I paced four marathons last year and to be honest it was my way of trying to give back to the running community. I am so grateful for what running has given me over the past nine years and I am also really excited to see where this road leads me too. I have openly said in the past that my

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