Cork City Marathon Launches NextGen Solidarity 10k for Young Runners

The Analog Devices Cork City Marathon has announced a new initiative aimed at encouraging young people to embrace running and community solidarity through the NextGen Solidarity 10k event on 31 May 2026.

The Analog Devices Cork City Marathon, in partnership with the Sanctuary Runners, has launched the NextGen Solidarity 10k run, an official part of this year's Cork City Marathon. The programme specifically targets people aged 15 and older, forming the 10k leg of the marathon event scheduled for Sunday, 31 May.

The initiative aims to encourage young participants to get active, embrace healthier lifestyles, and experience the atmosphere of marathon day alongside thousands of other runners across Cork.

Eamon Hayes, Race Director of the Analog Devices Cork City Marathon, said:

"It's fantastic to be here in Coláiste Éamann Rís to see this many people out running. I've run nearly 50 marathons but there is no way I could have run 10k at their age. Let's hope they enjoy the experience, keep it up and go on to take part in the full or half marathon in future years."

Cllr Fergal Dennehy, Lord Mayor of Cork, added:

"I wish all our young people taking part in the NextGen Solidarity 10k the very best of luck and I encourage them to embrace and enjoy it. All of this takes a lot of organisation and preparation from all parties involved. We hope to see this event grow and grow in the coming years. It also shows Cork City Council's commitment to making Cork a healthy city."

Joe Creech, Cork Site Lead and Director at Analog Devices, said:

"It is inspiring to see so many young people come together with such energy and enthusiasm. Events like this highlight the power of community, encouraging healthy habits and building confidence through shared experience. At ADI, we are proud to support initiatives that uplift and strengthen our local communities, and we hope today's run marks the beginning of a lifelong interest in staying active and connected."

Graham Clifford, Founder of Sanctuary Runners, stated:

"We are very excited to work with students across Cork to emphasize the intrinsic importance of solidarity to all in our community as part of this year's marathon. It's very apt too that we partner with Cork City Council on this initiative given the great relationship which has been formed between the two entities over the last eight years. Now, more than ever, it's so vital our young people display empathy and understanding with all in our communities."

Dan Fox, Cork City Council Sports Development Officer, said:

"I am super excited to get this project up and running. It is fantastic to see all the students here in Coláiste Éamann Rís excited to start a memorable journey together. Being together is a huge part of this project. It is great to get active, but this is also going to be a brilliant chance for the kids to learn about inclusion and integration."

The NextGen Solidarity 10k represents a collaboration between the Cork City Marathon, Sanctuary Runners, Analog Devices, and Cork City Council to promote physical activity and community solidarity among young people in Cork.