- The 40th Warriors Run is taking place in Strandhill on 22 August 2026
- Approximately 1,200 competitors are tackling the 10-mile course to Knocknarea
- The event includes a 10 km fun walk and a 5 km Young Warriors Run
- Local businesses are experiencing high demand from participants and spectators
- The race has raised funds for community organisations throughout its history
The Sligo seaside village of Strandhill is hosting the 40th Warriors Run this Saturday 22 August 2026, with approximately 1,200 competitors tackling the challenging 10-mile course from the seafront cannon to the top of Knocknarea mountain and back to the finish line. The event also includes a 10 km fun walk and a 5 km Young Warriors Run for younger participants, with live coverage planned from the start-finish area. The race has become a landmark event on the Irish running calendar, attracting participants from across the country and overseas.
The course takes runners along Strandhill’s coastline and up the slopes of Knocknarea, one of County Sligo’s most iconic landmarks, offering views over Sligo Bay and the surrounding countryside. The route includes significant elevation gain, with the return section of the course challenging participants’ endurance and fitness. Local volunteers have organised water stations, marshalling points, and first aid facilities along the route to support competitors. The event has raised funds for community organisations throughout its 40-year history.
Strandhill businesses have reported strong visitor numbers for the weekend, with accommodation, cafés, and restaurants experiencing high demand from participants and spectators. The event attracts media coverage across local and national outlets, promoting Strandhill as a destination for outdoor and sports tourism. The organisers plan to continue the tradition of the Warriors Run, with the race maintaining its position as one of Ireland’s most popular off-road running events.
John McGowan, the Race Director, shared: “We are delighted to be celebrating the 40th anniversary of the Warriors Run, and the entry numbers show just how much this event means to the local community and to the wider Irish running community.”
