Cork City Marathon Set to Bring 11,000 Runners to the Streets This Weekend

The 2025 Cork City Marathon will take place this Sunday, 1st June, with all three race distances completely sold out as the city prepares for one of its largest sporting events of the year.

Organisers say the event has grown beyond just a race to become "a celebration of community and the vibrant spirit of our beloved city", with 11,000 participants expected to take part across the full marathon, half marathon, and 10k distances.

The full marathon will commence at 8:15am from St. Patrick's Street, whilst the half marathon starts later at 10:15am from Monahan Road, with assembly at Kennedy Park. The 10k race begins at 8:45am from St. Patrick's Street, with participants gathering on Merchant's Quay from 8:15am.

As a full member of AIMS (Association of International Marathons and Distance Races), the Cork marathon maintains World Athletics certification, ensuring international standards for serious runners.

Race Pack Collection and Expo

Participants must collect their race packs, including timing chips and race numbers, from Cork City Hall during official registration periods. Collection runs from 12pm to 7pm on Friday, 31st May, and 11am to 6pm on Saturday, 1st June.

The City Hall will simultaneously host an expo featuring key partners and sponsors including Analog Devices, The Edge Sports, Elverys, Red Bull, and various local charities. The expo remains open to the public, even for non-participants.

Course Support and Facilities

Marathon runners will find 13 water stations positioned throughout the course, whilst 10k participants have access to two stations. Toilet facilities will be available at City Hall, near start and finish lines, and at portable facilities along the route. Period products will also be available at water stations.

Transport and Road Closures

The city anticipates significant economic benefits from the weekend, with hotels fully booked and a festival atmosphere expected along race routes. However, road closures are essential for participant safety.

A Park and Ride service will operate from Black Ash Centre on the South City Link (N27), running every 8-12 minutes from 6:15am for £5 per day. Additional early train services will run from Cobh and Mallow at 7:00am, and Midleton at 7:15am.

City and suburban bus services will face restrictions, with detailed information available on the Cork City Marathon website and Bus Éireann updates.

Spectator Information

Race organisers encourage public support, highlighting prime viewing locations including Patrick Street, Grand Parade, St. Patrick's Bridge, Turners Cross, The Lough, and Model Farm Road near MTU. Support is particularly valuable at challenging points such as the marathon's mid-point and final kilometres.

Detailed road closure information and race maps are available on the Cork City Council website, with organisers advising advance route planning for anyone travelling through the city during race day.