The Early Years
2008Established in 2008, the Killarney Marathon is now 18 years old. From its first edition in Killarney, it has evolved into a race that reflects the character of its host region in Ireland.
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Course & Elevation
The Killarney Marathon showcases the spectacular landscapes of County Kerry, featuring loops through Killarney National Park with views of the MacGillycuddy's Reeks mountains. The course winds through picturesque villages, lakeside paths, and scenic mountain valleys, offering runners a perfect blend of challenging terrain and stunning natural beauty.
Surface: road Profile: Rolling
Weather
Temperature 15°C
Humidity 75%
Rain Chance 60%
Typical Irish early summer weather with mild temperatures and a high probability of rain or drizzle. Cloud cover and cool winds common; dress in layers and waterproof gear recommended.
The Race
Killarney
Race Lore
Running Through a Postcard
The Killarney Marathon route is one of those courses where runners forget their pace and reach for their phones. The scenery through Killarney and its surroundings has earned this race a reputation as one of the most photogenic in Europe.
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Registration
Registration Opens January
Registration Closes April
Entry Cost €85-€105
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Fun Facts
- ▸ The race starts and finishes in Killarney town center, a UNESCO World Heritage Site nestled between three lakes and surrounded by Ireland's highest mountains.
- ▸ Runners pass through Killarney National Park, established in 1932 and home to the rare Killarney yew tree and native red deer population.
- ▸ The course elevation gain of 520m is distributed as rolling terrain rather than steep climbs, making it accessible for recreational runners while still challenging serious competitors.
- ▸ Killarney hosts one of Ireland's oldest running communities, with the local athletics club dating back over 50 years of race organization experience.
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