County Guide
Running Races in Mayo 2026: Westport, Clew Bay and Beyond
Looking for running races in Mayo in 2026? Mayo doesn't have the volume of races that Dublin or Cork does — but what it has is quality. Particularly for anyone who wants to race somewhere genuinely beautiful, without three thousand other people on the start line.
Westport has become one of Ireland's best running towns. The Westport House grounds, Clew Bay, the Greenway — the races that use them are well-run, well-attended, and unlike almost anything else on the Irish calendar.
Upcoming races in Mayo
Popular Mayo races
Westport 10K — one of the most popular races in Connacht. The town comes out for it. Good course, manageable field size, and the post-race coffee situation in Westport is genuinely excellent.
Clew Bay Half Marathon — follows the coastline around Clew Bay with views across to Clare Island. The kind of course that rewards you for finishing even when it's being difficult.
Sea2Summit — not a traditional running race, but involves a lot of running. Swim across Clew Bay, cycle to Croagh Patrick, climb it, run back. If you've done every road race in Ireland and want something that feels genuinely hard, this is it.
When do Mayo races happen?
- Spring (March–May): Sea2Summit and some early-season club events. Good conditions out west when the weather cooperates.
- Summer (June–August): Peak Westport season. Most of the popular races in this window. Book accommodation early.
- Autumn (September–October): Trail events and club races across Castlebar, Ballina, and Swinford.
Beyond Westport
Away from Westport, Mayo's race calendar is quieter — but there are solid club events in Castlebar, Ballina, Swinford, and Belmullet that are worth the drive. Trail racing in Mayo is underrated — the Nephin range and the Ox Mountains both have events that barely register nationally but are excellent for what they are.
What to know before you go
Weather: Mayo racing weather is unpredictable even by Irish standards. A shell jacket is never a mistake. Conditions on the coast can change in an hour.
Entry: Most Mayo races don't sell out the way Dublin events do — a few weeks is usually fine. Exception: anything in Westport in summer. Book those early.
Getting there: Westport has a rail connection from Dublin via Athlone. Most other Mayo race locations need a car.
More Connacht racing
Related: Running races in Galway 2026 · Half marathons in Ireland 2026 · Races still open for entry
Browse all upcoming races in Ireland → — updated daily.