Charity places available for Cork City Marathon

A limited number of charity places are now available for the sold-out 2026 Analog Devices Cork City Full Marathon and Half Marathon. The popular annual event takes place on Sunday, May 31. 

The organisers, Cork City Council, really want people to raise as much money as possible for local and national charities, so they’re inviting further entries for the two sold-out races, the Marathon and Half Marathon. The organisers are giving these extra places to charities, who will, in turn, pass these places onto runners. 

In 2025, an impressive €307,000 was raised for Irish charities and community groups, and organisers hope the introduction of charity places will help exceed that figure in 2026. 

With a race ethos of 'Your Race, Their Hope', it is hoped that €350,000 can be raised for charities by runners this year. 

Charities can use the marathon as a fundraising tool by purchasing a limited number of guaranteed entries for the marathon and half-marathon, which they can offer to supporters within the running community. 

The charity places initiative is operated by Analog Devices Cork City Marathon organisers, in partnership with Eventmaster. Charities can get involved in the initiative and ensure they secure their Marathon and Half Marathon spots in the event here. The model is already a familiar one at major events such as the Phoenix Energy Belfast City Marathon, and organisers believe it will significantly boost the event’s fundraising impact.   

Runners who take part through a charity place will commit to a fundraising target set by the participating charity, helping charities continue the vital work they do. Anyone keen to secure one of these sought-after spots is encouraged to reach out to their chosen charity to see if they’re involved. 

If you’ve signed up for the event on Sunday, May 31, 2026, be sure to visit the 2026 Analog Devices Cork City Marathon website; a valuable resource with detailed training plans designed for runners of all levels. Whether you’re tackling your first 10K, progressing to the Half Marathon, or taking on the Full Marathon challenge, these plans are designed to guide you every step of the way. 

Proudly community-driven and inclusive at its core, the Analog Devices Cork City Marathon is one of Cork’s most powerful fundraising platforms, supporting more than 500 Irish registered charities each year. The charity message ‘Your Race. Their Hope’ underscores the impact of the event, with funds raised supporting local and national charities across health, disability services, community support and social inclusion.

Lord Mayor of Cork, Cllr Fergal Dennehy, said. “Every year we see people lining up on the start line with very different reasons for being there, but fundraising is often what gives their run real meaning.” 

Valerie O’Sullivan, chief executive of Cork City Council, said: “The Cork City Marathon is hugely important for charities in this region. Each year, thousands of participants use the race to raise vital funds for organisations of every size, from local volunteer groups to national charities delivering essential services.

“The sense of shared purpose on race day reminds us that sport can be a powerful force for social good. This year’s hosting of the National Half Marathon Championships adds even more to the event, attracting additional athletes and supporters and further boosting the fundraising potential for charities.” 

Brendan O’Dowd, managing director, Precision Technology at Analog Devices, Inc. (ADI) said: “At ADI, we’re proud to support initiatives that reflect our deep commitment to people, community, and planet. The Cork City Marathon embodies all of these; it brings people together, breaks down barriers to participation, and channels positive energy toward a greater purpose. We’re especially excited to see the introduction of charity places in 2026, enabling more runners to support causes close to their heart. It’s a privilege to be part of an event that’s growing in ambition and impact year after year."

Eamon Hayes, race director, said: “We have worked hard to make it as easy as possible for runners to support charities through the registration process. Introducing official charity places this year allows people who missed out on a general entry to still be part of the event while making a real and lasting difference, and we really appreciate Eventmaster’s support in making this happen.”

The Analog Devices Cork City Marathon takes place on Sunday, May 31, 2026. 

You can register your fundraising page HERE. Visit the 2026 Analog Devices Cork City Marathon website for more information.   

For more information, visit corkcitymarathon.ie and follow @CorkCityMarathon on social media.

#AnalogDevicesCorkCityMarathon #YourRaceTheirHope