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Clontarf Half Marathon and 5 Mile Race
Luke McLeod
| Last Updated: Friday, 27 October 2023
| Minute Read
Luke McLeod
Last Updated: Friday, 27 October 2023
Minute Read
- Take to the Clontarf Promenade for this annual sell out race. Sponsored by Joe Duffy BMW Clontarf, the Half Marathon and 5 Mile race takes place twice a year in July and November. This flat course race attracted more than 3500 entrants last year, so be sure to book your place soon.
- The next race will take place on Saturday, 6th of July 2024. The 2024 event will have a new start location with an event village. You can find number collection, baggage and toilets here.
About the event
Set in the picturesque area of Clontarf Promenade towards Bull Island, as you run you can take in the views of Howth Head, Dublin Bay and smell the sweet sea air. Get your running shoes on and take part in the bi-annual Half Marathon and 5 Miler.
The July edition is a dream event for those in preparation for the Dublin Marathon. As Ireland’s flattest half marathon, it presents an excellent terrain for runners to get miles in without too much fatigue. The Winter race is perfect finish to the year of running events, on race day you will feel an incredible atmosphere at the Joe Duffy BMW Clontarf Half Marathon.
Types of Races
There are two races this July, a 10.5 mile and a 5 mile, both boasting a flat terrain course.
Half Marathon
One for the experienced runners, a 21km run in the scenic setting of Clontarf Bay. The race starts at 10am, with the entire route covering an off road promenade over to Bull Island. Thanks to it’s scenic route, the race atmosphere has a unique relaxing appeal to runners.
The flattest half marathon in Ireland is an excellent race for those training for the Dublin marathon as it will not require too much recovery.
Runners will take in the beautiful scenery of Clontarf Road as they take to the promenade, before heading in towards Sutton via the Howth Road. After a scenic jaunt past St. Annes Park, the journey will turn back towards Bull Island, to then make their way back along the coast.
Walkers will begin at 9.30am. Those running the race will start at 10am in four waves depending on their expected time. On race day, pacers will have a balloon attached for certain times. Be sure to look out for the pacer you need to focus on. However, your chip tracker will only start as you cross the mat, so don’t rush to the starting line.
5 Mile Race
This is an ideal race for those entering their first or junior runners. Starting on the flat ground of Alfie Byrne road at 10.20 am, just after the seasoned runners take on the half marathon. This exhilarating event takes a similar route too, Runners will take on Clontarf Road, running along the Promenade, before reaching Davis Court where they’ll turn and make their way back to the end of the race.
Like the half marathon, there will also be a wave start for the 5 mile race. The four waves will be available on the day. One thing to note is there are no pacers for this race.
Run and Refresh at Clontarf Castle Hotel
We have an exciting opportunity for runners to stay at the hotel on the night of the race in the stunning 4* Clontarf Castle Hotel.
Overnight accommodation in one of our beautifully re-modeled deluxe bedroom, these luxurious bedrooms come in a variety of boutique styles from country heritage to more contemporary schemes.
Refresh yourself from the race with a stay in one of the modern rooms with a 55” Tv, Fast Wi-Fi, Walk in Rain Shower, and a whole lot more.
After a refreshing sleep on our pillow top mattress, join us for breakfast in our restaurant. On your stay, you will receive event parking free of charge.
Book a Stay now!
Official links
Sign up to race at the Clontarf Half Marathon or the 5 Mile Race this July 6th.
Check out the competition on Strava!
FAQ’s about the Events
Is parking available at the Clontarf Castle Hotel?
Answer: Yes, guests who receive overnight accommodation at the Clontarf Castle Hotel can receive free event parking.
What time does the race start?
Answer: The Half Marathon starts at 10am and the 5 Mile starts at 10.30am.
Is the route for the event flat?
Answer: Yes, the route for the Clontarf Half Marathon is flat hard-surfaced ground.
Luke McLeod
Luke is a seasoned travel writer, with years of experience around Europe, America and at home in Dublin.
If it’s not discovering some of Clontarf’s finest coffee shops, Luke can be found in the city centre tracing over historic steps of Irish history or chatting with some of his favourite artisan producers in the town.
Wether it’s a pub for a quiet pint, a day trip from the capital or a dainty market to spend your Saturday morning, Luke’s travel tips will ensure your stay at Clontarf Castle Hotel is a unique experience.
