RUN KILLARNEY: Launching Run Killarney at Ladies View were: Sean McDermott (Gleneagle Group), Mike Riordan (Sanctuary Runners), Oliver Kirwan (Run Killarney), Graham Clifford (Sanctuary Runners), Catherine Casey (Gleneagle Group) and Busie Mhlophe (Sanctuary Runners).

By Michelle Crean

Killarney will play host to one of Ireland’s premier running events tomorrow (Saturday) when more than 3000 competitors from all over the world take part in the Gleneagle Hotel Run Killarney half-marathon and 10K road race.

This sold out event will welcome all types of runners, walkers, newcomers and people who just want a challenge and a great day out. Participants will represent 15 countries from around the world including China, Brazil, Republic of Congo, Australia and UAE.

Road closures take place on the N71 Molls Gap to Muckross House Killarney from 6.30am to 11.30am.

For the first time ever Run Killarney will be plastic bottle free, replacing cups and bottles with compostable cups for water at the various water stations and the finish line.

As part of this year’s event, organisers have teamed up again with The Sanctuary Runners to help raise awareness of their mission and to collect donations of running gear from the public and those taking part in the race.

The Sanctuary Runners was set up by Graham Clifford in 2018. Their aim is to enable local runners to run alongside, and in solidarity with, those in Direct Provision thereby fostering friendship, positivity and respect while bringing greater awareness to the system in which asylum seekers live.

“We are really excited that Run Killarney returns, is still going strong and continues to be a significant date in the running calendar in Ireland,” Event Organiser Oliver Kirwan said.

“We are delighted to welcome The Sanctuary Runners to the event for their second year. Running is all about mental and physical health and achieving a balance in your life. It’s a great way to connect and interact with other people no matter what your or their situation is. I’d like to welcome everyone to the event and wish them the very best of luck, see you on the beautiful course!”

The race routes give competitors the chance to run one of the world's most breath-taking and scenic road races through Muckross House and the Killarney National Park.

Both routes are fast downhill courses with amazing scenery. The half-marathon starts at Molls Gap and continues through the National Park to the finish line and party atmosphere at the Gleneagle Hotel.

All competitors will receive a customised t-shirt and finisher’s medal and can embrace the great atmosphere at the Gleneagle Hotel once they cross the finish line.

For more information please contact Annette Grealish on annette@eliteevents.ie or 087 6024621 or visit www.runkillarney.com.