Cork City Marathon: Get your running shoes on!

WITH 16 weeks until this year’s Cork City Marathon, race director Eamon Hayes has shared advice for those thinking of taking part.

This year’s event, led by Cork City Council, takes place on June 2.

Last year, there were more than 11,000 entries for the marathon, and registration is now open for this year’s marathon, half marathon, and the 10K race.

Organisers said that spectators play an equally vital role in the event, unleashing creativity with motivational signs, cheers, and applause that resonate throughout the course.

They said live music provided by members of the Cork School of Music and play activity with Let’s Play Cork will also add to public and participants’ enjoyment of the event.

Speaking ahead of the event, Independent councillor Kieran McCarthy, Lord Mayor of Cork, said: “The Cork City Marathon is renowned for its inclusivity, bringing together runners and walkers from different nationalities and backgrounds, including Cork’s very own Sanctuary Runners, along with wheelchair athletes, and fitness enthusiasts.

“This is an incredible event for the people of Cork, not only is it an event that promotes health and wellbeing, but it also provides a real economic benefit to the city. I want to acknowledge the incredible work of the organisers and volunteers and wish all those competing the best with their preparations in the coming weeks.

“The day is for all Corkonians, from young to old. Get involved in one of the city’s largest gatherings of people — all in the aid of sport, well-being, charities, comradeship and much more. Walk, jog, or run in this year’s marathon!“.

Race director Eamonn Hayes said that organisers are hoping 2024 will be Cork’s best Cork City Marathon yet.

“The running community’s high level of involvement in organising the event, coupled with our experienced team and commitment to continued improvement, makes this a great year to participate or support,” he said.

“The Cork City Marathon is not just a significant race on the athletics calendar, but is also a great showcase for our city. The event will yet again provide a cultural and economic boost to the local area and we are really calling on Cork locals to take pride in their city’s marathon by coming out in support of the event, the athletes, and Cork.”

Management of this year’s event is back under the auspices of Cork City Council and expert partners, with significant input from members of the running community.

The main organising committee features 14 runners.

Ahead of the event, Eamon Hayes shared the following tips:

1. Make a training schedule that you’ll stick to. A 16-week training plan for Cork City Marathon is now live on the ‘Runners Diary’ podcast and blog series by Brian Ahern and Damian Kenneally, which is also being shared on @corkcitymarathon social media channels. These will be helpful for first-time and seasoned runners in building up to race day. We will also have 12-week schedules available shortly on our website for the Marathon, Half Marathon, and 10k.

2. Don’t forget strength and conditioning: Doing one core-building training session a week will improve your strength, posture, running form and, as a result, stamina. Bodyweight exercises such as planks, side planks, burpees, press-ups, squats, leg presses and split squats are ideal, as they build strength and balance.

3. Fuel your body: Often overlooked, nutrition is a key part of training and recovery.

4. A flexible schedule: Things happen and schedules change. Work around work and family commitments and holidays. Missing a few sessions won’t put you off track. The most important thing is not to panic. Make it work for your lifestyle, be it running home for work, or taking the kids on their bikes while you run.

5. Stretching: Stretching after every run is just as important as the run itself in terms of recovery and injury prevention.

6. Listen to your body and slow down or stop when something feels off: Include plenty of rest days, as they’re crucial to make sure you don’t overtrain and pick up an injury.

7. Test your gear before the big day: Shoes, clothing, belt bags, energy gels, protein bars — anything you plan to put on or in your body.

8. Find a running group: Having company will motivate you and you’ll pick up tips from your companions. Keep an eye on our social media channels for groups in your area.

9. Visualise: Imagine the finish line during your training, and it will help you to keep going.

10. Try to enjoy the experience: You’ll have as many memories of your training as the big day itself, and whether you’re doing a 10k for the first time or looking to improve your marathon time, it’s an incredible adventure.

Enhancements this year include additional water stations and improved distribution channels, higher-spec race t-shirts, and perhaps most exciting of all: a brand-new medal design crafted from recycled metal, aligning with the event’s sustainability goals.

The 2024 Cork City Marathon will kick off at 8.15am for the full marathon, 10.15am for the half marathon, and 8.45am for the 10k race (assembly for this race will commence at 8.15am at Merchant’s Quay).

To register for the marathon, half marathon, or 10K, see www.corkcity.ie/cork-city-marathon-2024 and follow @corkcitymarathon on social media.