The Cape Clear Island Races
Always double-check with the organizer's website! This page may contain affiliate links.
The Cape Clear Island Races
The Cape Clear Island Races take place on Ireland's southernmost inhabited island in West Cork. This multi-terrain event utilizes the island's network of hiking trails and quiet island lanes to create a trail running experience through a Gaeltacht area where Irish is a spoken language. The landscape features views of Roaringwater Bay, the Fastnet Rock Lighthouse, and Sherkin Island.
Participants can choose from two main distances:
- Half Marathon
- 10 km
The course consists of long sections of trail and requires specific gear for safety and performance. Road shoes are not sufficient for the terrain. Mandatory kit for all participants includes trail running shoes, a waterproof jacket, a waistpack or backpack, a foil blanket, a whistle, a reusable cup, a mobile phone, and emergency food.
Access to the event is managed via two entry types. The Raceboat entry includes a chartered ferry service departing from Baltimore harbour specifically for the event. The non-Raceboat entry is reserved for those who can reach the island by private means or are already staying there, as the standard scheduled ferry service does not arrive in time for the race starts. Participants must be between the ages of 17 and 75 to take part in the races. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.
