The Cape Clear Island Races
Always double-check with the organizer's website! This page may contain affiliate links.
About the race
The Cape Clear Island Races is a trail running event on Cape Clear Island, off the coast of West Cork in Roaring Water Bay. The event offers two distances:
- Half Marathon
- 10 km
Runners travel to the island on chartered raceboats from Baltimore; the return ferry is included in the race ticket. Only two raceboats are available and places are limited, so participants using the raceboat must adhere to designated travel allocations. There is also a non-raceboat option for those who make their own way to the island, but those runners must be on the island well before their race start.
Routes combine paved lanes, single-track trails, rough island paths, steep climbs and rolling descents, with views that can include the Fastnet Lighthouse. The event emphasizes careful planning and local respect, and concludes on the island with a medal ceremony and on-site music.
Organisers publish route maps for each distance and specify mandatory kit for all participants, which includes trail shoes, waterproof jacket, foil blanket, whistle, waist pack or backpack, fully charged mobile phone, and emergency food.
Accommodation options are limited on Cape Clear Island; Baltimore and nearby Skibbereen offer additional hotels, B&Bs and self-catering choices. The island setting is compact but varied in terrain and landscape. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.
