500 Sanctuary Runners to take part in Sunday's Cork City Marathon

The Sanctuary Runners, participating in this year’s Analog Devices Cork City Marathon, will feature a team of almost 500 members from 42 countries.

The multi-award-winning international organisation, now with a presence in the UK and groups in Australia and the Netherlands, was founded in Cork some eight years ago in partnership with Cork City Council and marathon organisers.

This year’s team includes those seeking asylum, refugees, people who have moved to Ireland for other reasons, and runners from across Ireland — including more than 200 students from secondary schools in Cork city and county.

Runners participating from other countries include Palestine, the Democratic Republic of Congo, China, Bolivia, Zimbabwe, Ukraine, Syria, Afghanistan, Brazil, Sudan, and more.

Founder of the Sanctuary Runners, Graham Clifford, said this year’s group make up “an incredible multicultural team”.

He added that it was possibly the most diverse team to have taken part in any run, anywhere.

“Over the years we’ve broken so many records, and I think this may well be another,” he added.

“Most of our team will be taking part over the 10km distance, but we also have people from Afghanistan, Zimbabwe, Ukraine, and elsewhere taking part in the full marathon.

“At a time when certain elements in our country wish to divide and to dehumanise others, this team is one of complete unity where people of all nationalities are so entirely welcome, celebrated, and cherished. This is Ireland at its best.”

Marathon director Eamon Hayes said the presence of so many nationalities on the team, including many people currently living in direct provision, underscores the significance of the event in celebrating unity, resilience, and the power of shared movement.

Mr Clifford added that for many members of their team, especially those who are black and brown, these are “troubling and uncertain” times.

“It can be nerve-wrecking to go out and run in an event like this at the best of times — but now it feels even more difficult for many,” Mr Clifford said. 

“Let’s send out a signal to the world that we respect all regardless of nationality, ethnicity, legal status, religion, or culture.

“When you see Sanctuary Runners on Sunday give a smile and a roar of support — it could mean more to someone than you could possibly imagine.”

The Analog Devices Cork City Marathon 2026 will take place across the city this Sunday, with the full marathon starting from 8.15am on Patrick Street, followed by the half marathon at 10.15am from Monahan Road.

Participants in the half marathon will assemble at Kennedy Park prior to the race commencing.

• For more information on this year’s event, visit: www.corkcity.ie/en/cork-city-marathon