Ireland's Best Races This May & June - Your Spring Running Calendar
Spring is peak season for Irish runners. The weather is improving, the legs are fresh from winter base training, and the race calendar is absolutely stacked. Whether you're chasing a PB on the roads, tackling your first half marathon, or hunting for a mountain challenge, May and June have something for every runner.
May 2026
Glendalough Lap of the Gap Marathon - May 23, Wicklow
The jewel of May. This takes you deep into the Wicklow Mountains National Park on one of the most spectacular marathon courses in Ireland. Don't come here chasing a flat PB - this is serious mountain terrain with breathtaking scenery at every turn. There's a half marathon option too.
Distance: Marathon and Half Marathon
Location: Laragh, Co. Wicklow
Terrain: Mountain / Trail
Delphi Half Marathon & 10K - May 16, Mayo
Running from Glenkeen to Delphi in the heart of Connemara, this race hugs the wild Atlantic landscape - bog, mountain, and coast. One of the most scenic half marathons in the country. The 10K option is ideal for runners building their base.
Distance: Half Marathon and 10K
Location: Delphi, Co. Mayo
Terrain: Road / Scenic
Ennis Half Marathon - May 31, Clare
A fast, flat road race in County Clare - great choice if you're targeting a half marathon PB this spring. Well-organised, accessible, and a proper community event.
Distance: Half Marathon
Location: Ennis, Co. Clare
Terrain: Road
June 2026
Irish Runner 5K - May 16, Phoenix Park, Dublin
The first event in the 2026 Athletics Ireland Race Series. A fast, chip-timed 5K in an iconic Dublin setting. Popular with club runners and recreational runners alike.
Irish Runner 5 Mile - June 21, Phoenix Park, Dublin
The second event in the Athletics Ireland Race Series. Five miles in Phoenix Park - a favourite distance for runners stepping up from 5K.
Distance: 5 Miles
Location: Phoenix Park, Dublin
Terrain: Road
Tips for Spring Racing in Ireland
Start conservative. Irish spring conditions can be unpredictable - mountain courses especially can turn cold and windy fast. Dress in layers.
Book early. Glendalough and the west coast races fill up quickly. If it's on your list, don't wait.
Train for the terrain. Road fitness doesn't always transfer to mountain courses. Get some hills in before Glendalough or Delphi.
Recovery matters. With a stacked calendar, leave 2-3 weeks between A-races.
Find Your Next Race on enduroeire
This is just a snapshot. There are hundreds of events across Ireland right now - 5Ks, ultras, HYROX, open water swims, and everything in between.
enduroeire uses AI to match you to races based on your location, distance preference, and terrain. Head to enduroeire.ie to explore the full calendar and get personalised recommendations.
Happy running.