Killarney hosted the largest orienteering festival ever held on Irish soil this past week, bringing over 2,000 international competitors and generating more than 10,000 bednights for the local area.

Organised by Kerry Orienteers, the week-long event drew participants from 35 countries to take on a series of technical courses across local mountain terrain, indoor spaces, and town streets. Organisers claimed the gathering was the largest of its kind globally.
The festival kicked off at St Brendan’s College with Ireland’s first-ever indoor orienteering event. Competitors then moved into the wild for five days of open mountain challenges around Glenflesk and Kilgarvan, tackling the rugged slopes of Crohane Mountain and Black Lakes.
The action will draw to a close today (Friday) following a high-speed urban street event through the centre of town.
Athlete ages ranged from under 10 to over 80, with Switzerland bringing the largest international group of nearly 300 entrants, alongside major teams from the UK, Finland, France, and Czechia.
Brendan O’Brien of Kerry Orienteers said the club was thrilled with the turnout, noting that the week provided a massive economic boost for local accommodation and tourism while putting Killarney on the global orienteering map.

John O’Donoghue begins 3,000km coastal cycle around Ireland

Killarney man John O’Donoghue set off yesterday on a demanding 3,166km cycle around the entire coast of Ireland to raise vital funds for St. Francis Special School.

John aims to complete the extensive coastal journey over 17 days of continuous cycling, with a target finish date of August 15. The challenge will see him take on changing weather conditions and long hours in the saddle every day as he navigates the perimeter of the country.
All proceeds raised from the fundraiser will go directly to St. Francis Special School to support their ongoing work with children and young people with additional needs. The school provides a caring, inclusive learning environment featuring specialized teaching, therapies, and tailored supports designed to help pupils reach their full potential.
Members of the public can make a donation online to support the cause, and followers can track John’s daily progress along the route via his Instagram page, @kerryjohncycles.