Beara Way Challenge
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Beara Way Half Marathon : Beara Way Challenge
The Beara Way Challenge is a mountain half marathon held in County Cork on Saturday 16 May 2026. The event distance is 23.50 km with approximately 1100 m of ascent. The route is fully marked and GPS devices are allowed. The event is part of the Munster Half-Marathon League and is rated difficulty 9 (3,3,3) for difficult terrain, more than 500 m ascent and more than 10 km.
Race registration is at Castletownbere Town Centre and the course starts just outside the town on Derrintaggert Road. The route follows the Beara Way walking trail to a fire road, turns right following markers for Eyeries, then left over a foot-bridge towards Allihies. After the second stile the course ascends Knockoura Mountain, leaving the Beara Way to reach the summit, then descends north back onto the walking trail toward Eyeries. A marshal will be stationed at the forestry gate before the ascent of Mish Kish Mountain. The route climbs Mish Kish, then follows markers west to descend back onto the Beara Way and returns to Castletownbere Town Centre. The course includes open mountain sections and sea views.
Mandatory kit is Level B and includes a waterproof jacket, hat or buff, gloves, whistle, charged mobile phone with an emergency number stored, and a foil blanket, bivvy bag or equivalent. Runners must carry water in addition to mandatory kit. The actual required kit to be carried may be finalised at registration. Entry closes 8 May 2026, cost €40, entry limit 100, with 40 entries sold. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.
