City marathon places reserved for charities
A number of guaranteed entries for this year's Cork City Marathon and half marathon will be offered to charities, which they can then offer to supporters within the running community.
Runners taking part through a charity place will commit to a fundraising target set by the participating charity.
The initiative is being operated by the Analog Devices Cork City Marathon organisers in partnership with Eventmaster. The model has been used previously at major events like the Phoenix Energy Belfast City Marathon.
Organisers of the Cork event believe it will significantly boost the event’s fundraising impact.
The initiative forms part of the marathon’s wider 2026 fundraising drive. Runners already registered can still choose a charity on Eventmaster and fundraise as they train.
Race Director Eamon Hayes said they have worked hard to make it “as easy as possible for runners to support charities through the registration process”.
“Introducing official charity places this year allows people who missed out on a general entry to still be part of the event while making a real and lasting difference, and we really appreciate Eventmaster’s support in making this happen,” he said.
In 2025, €307,000 was raised for Irish charities and community groups, and organisers said they hope the introduction of charity places will help exceed this figure in 2026.
Lord Mayor of Cork Cllr Fergal Dennehy said: “Every year we see people lining up on the start line with very different reasons for being there, but fundraising is often what gives their run real meaning.”
Funds will be raised to support local and national charities across health, disability services, community support and social inclusion.
Managing Director, Precision Technology at Analog Devices Brendan O’Dowd said the marathon “brings people together”.
“It breaks down barriers to participation, and channels positive energy toward a greater purpose,” he said.
The Analog Devices Cork City Marathon will take place on 31 May.
More information can be found at corkcitymarathon.ie or by following @CorkCityMarathon on social media.
This article was produced with the support of the Local Democracy Reporting Scheme funded by Coimisiún na Meán.