Are you thinking of running this year’s Cork City Marathon on June 2nd, 2024? Led by Cork City Council, the 2024 event promises to be an even better running experience this year with lots of race improvements. Registrations are now open for the Marathon, Half Marathon, and the 10K Race, which is back due to popular demand!
With scenic courses winding through the picturesque streets of Cork City and suburbs, participants can expect a memorable and challenging experience – where every mile will make lasting memories.
With over 11,000 entries in 2023, the Cork City Marathon continues to grow each year, attracting participants from Ireland and around the globe. From the USA to Asia, runners flock to Ireland, contributing to the international flavour of this remarkable event.
Race Director Eamon Hayes has the following advice for those thinking of taking part, whether it’s the full marathon, half marathon or 10k.
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Make a training schedule that you’ll stick to: A 16 week training plan for Cork City Marathon is now live on the ‘Runners Diary’ podcast and blog series by Brian Ahern and Damian Kenneally, which is also being shared on @corkcitymarathon social media channels. These will be helpful for first time and seasoned runners in building up to race day. We will also have 12 week schedules available shortly on our website for the Marathon, Half Marathon and 10k.
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Don’t forget strength and conditioning: Doing one core-building training session a week will improve your strength, posture, running form and, as a result, stamina. Bodyweight exercises are ideal, as they build strength and balance like planks, side planks, burpees, press-ups, squats, leg presses and split squats.
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Fuel your body: Often overlooked, nutrition is a key part of training and recovery.
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A flexible schedule. Things happen and schedules change. Work around work and family commitments and holidays. Missing a few sessions won’t put you off track. The most important thing is not to panic. Make it work for your lifestyle, be it running home for work, or taking the kids on their bikes while you run.
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Stretching: Stretching after every run is just as important as the run itself in terms of recovery and injury prevention.
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Listen to your body and slow down or stop when something feels off: Include plenty of rest days, as they’re crucial to make sure you don’t overtrain and pick up an injury.
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Test your gear before the big day: shoes, clothing, belt bags, energy gels, protein bars – anything you plan to put on or in your body.
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Find a running group: having company will motivate you and you’ll pick up tips from your companions. Keep an eye on our social media channels for groups in your area.
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Visualise: Imagine the finish line during your training and it will help you to keep going!
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Try to enjoy the experience: You’ll have as many memories of your training as the big day itself and whether you’re doing a 10k for the first time or looking to improve your marathon time, it’s an incredible adventure Enhancements this year include additional water stations and improved distribution channels, higher spec race t-shirts, and perhaps most exciting of all: a brand-new medal design crafted from recycled metal (set to be revealed soon!), aligning with the event’s sustainability goals.
Spectators play an equally vital role, unleashing creativity with motivational signs, cheers, and applause that resonate throughout the course. Live music provided by members of the Cork School of Music and play activity with let’s Play Cork will also add to public and participant enjoyment of the event. The city can anticipate a significant economic boost, with hotels booking up for the weekend and a vibrant festival atmosphere along the race routes.
The Lord Mayor of Cork, Cllr. Kieran McCarthy said: The Lord Mayor of Cork, Cllr. Kieran McCarthy said: “The Cork City Marathon is renowned for its inclusivity, bringing together runners and walkers from different nationalities and backgrounds, including Cork’s very own Sanctuary runners, along with wheelchair athletes, and fitness enthusiasts This is an incredible event for the people of Cork, not only is an event that promotes health and wellbeing, but it also provides a real economic benefit to the city. I want to acknowledge the incredible work of the organisers and volunteers and wish all those competing the best with their preparations in the coming weeks.
The day is for all Corkonians, from young to old. Get involved in one of the city’s largest gatherings of people – all in the aid of sport, well-being, charities, comradeship and much more. Walk, jog, or run in this year’s Marathon!“.
Eamonn Hayes, Race Director said, “We’re hoping 2024 will be Cork’s best Cork City Marathon yet. The running community’s high level of involvement in organising the event, coupled with our experienced team and commitment to continued improvement, makes this a great year to participate or support. The Cork City Marathon is not just a significant race on the athletics calendar but is also a great showcase for our city. The event will yet again provide a cultural and economic boost to the local area and we are really calling on Cork locals to take pride in their city’s marathon by coming out in support of the event, the athletes and Cork!!”
Management of this year’s event is back under the auspices of Cork City Council and expert partners with significant input from influential members of the running community. The main organising committee features 14 runners, with many more providing insights to ensure that the 2024 event is better than ever. This highly experienced team is dedicated to ensuring a seamless and enjoyable event for participants with a minimum of disruption to the city.
The 2024 Cork City Marathon will kick off at 8:15 am for the full marathon, 10:15am for the half marathon and 8:45am for the 10k race (assembly for this race will commence at 8:15am at Merchant’s Quay). As a full member of AIMs, the Cork marathon is IAAF certified. Make sure to mark the date in your diary as it promises to be an unforgettable day for both participants and spectators.
To register for the Marathon, Half Marathon, or 10K, and for more information on this year’s event, please visit www.corkcity.ie/cork-
