Record year for charity donations

More than €430,000 was raised for charities and community organisations across Ireland from this year’s Cork City Marathon, it was recently revealed.

Alongside this, family, friends and supporters of the Ellen Cassidy Fund raised a further €44,000 while another €4,800 was raised on idonate bringing the overall fundraising total generated through the 2026 event to more than €484,000

Donations were made by more than 13,450 supporters, who rallied behind friends, family and colleagues taking part in the Full Marathon, Half Marathon and 10K races at the end of May.

The combined fundraising total €484,800 represents an increase of 57% on the €307,673 raised in 2025, making 2026 another record-breaking year for the event's charitable impact.

Cork-based charities featured strongly, with substantial funds raised for Cork ARC Cancer Support House CLG, Down Syndrome Centre Cork, Cork City Hospital Children's Club, Cork Simon Community, Iris House Cork Cancer Support, Cork Mental Health Foundation, Brú Columbanus, The Crann Centre and the Cork Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals.

Race Director Eamon Hayes said: “Every year, we are humbled by the kindness and determination shown by our runners and their supporters, and 2026 has once again demonstrated the incredible generosity of the Analog Devices Cork City Marathon community.

“Whether running in memory of a loved one, in solidarity with a cause, or to give back to a service that has helped them, these fundraising efforts are at the heart of what makes this event so special.

He added: “This year, there was particular poignancy in seeing the family and friends of Ellen Cassidy honour her memory through their participation and fundraising efforts in support of charities and causes that were close to Ellen's heart. It is not just a race; it is a platform for hope, solidarity and genuine impact in communities across Ireland.”