Cork City Marathon Launches Charity Places for 2026 Event

The Analog Devices Cork City Marathon is selling out in record time, but a new charity places initiative offers runners who missed out an opportunity to still sign up for the 31 May event.

The Analog Devices Cork City Marathon has introduced a charity places scheme that allows charities to purchase a limited number of guaranteed entries for both the marathon and half marathon, which they can offer to supporters within the running community.

Runners who take part through a charity place will commit to a fundraising target set by the participating charity, helping charities continue the vital work they do. Anyone keen to secure one of these sought-after spots is encouraged to reach out to their chosen charity to see if they're involved.

The charity places initiative is operated by the Analog Devices Cork City Marathon organisers in partnership with Eventmaster. Charities can get involved in the initiative and ensure they secure their marathon and half marathon spots in the event. The model is already a familiar one at major events such as the Phoenix Energy Belfast City Marathon, and organisers believe it will significantly boost the event's fundraising impact.

The charity places initiative forms part of the Cork City Marathon's wider 2026 fundraising drive, with all runners across the full marathon, half marathon and 10k encouraged to make every kilometre count when the event returns to the city on Sunday, 31 May. Even runners who are already registered can get involved by choosing a charity on Eventmaster and fundraising as they train.

Proudly community-driven and inclusive at its core, the Analog Devices Cork City Marathon is one of Cork's most powerful fundraising platforms, supporting more than 500 Irish registered charities each year. The charity message "Your Race. Their Hope" underscores the impact of the event, with funds raised supporting local and national charities across health, disability services, community support and social inclusion.

In 2025, an impressive €307,000 was raised for Irish charities and community groups, and organisers hope the introduction of charity places will help exceed that figure in 2026.

Lord Mayor of Cork, Cllr Fergal Dennehy, said:

"Every year we see people lining up on the start line with very different reasons for being there, but fundraising is often what gives their run real meaning."

Chief Executive of Cork City Council, Valerie O'Sullivan, said:

"The Cork City Marathon is hugely important for charities in this region. Each year, thousands of participants use the race to raise vital funds for organisations of every size, from local volunteer groups to national charities delivering essential services. The sense of shared purpose on race day reminds us that sport can be a powerful force for social good. This year's hosting of the National Half Marathon Championships adds even more to the event, attracting additional athletes and supporters and further boosting the fundraising potential for charities."

Managing Director, Precision Technology at Analog Devices, Inc. (ADI) Brendan O'Dowd, said:

"At ADI, we're proud to support initiatives that reflect our deep commitment to people, community, and planet. The Cork City Marathon embodies all of these; it brings people together, breaks down barriers to participation, and channels positive energy towards a greater purpose. We're especially excited to see the introduction of charity places in 2026, enabling more runners to support causes close to their heart. It's a privilege to be part of an event that's growing in ambition and impact year after year."

Race Director Eamon Hayes said:

"We have worked hard to make it as easy as possible for runners to support charities through the registration process. Introducing official charity places this year allows people who missed out on a general entry to still be part of the event while making a real and lasting difference, and we really appreciate Eventmaster's support in making this happen."

The Analog Devices Cork City Marathon takes place on Sunday, 31 May 2026. For more information, visit corkcitymarathon.ie and follow @CorkCityMarathon on social media.