Benbulben (Luke's Bridge)

Event Details

The Benbulben race takes place on Saturday, 4 July 2026 in County Sligo. The main course is 9 km long with 400 m of climb. A shorter course of 4.5 km is also available.

Route Description

The route starts with a gentle incline on a tarmac road, transitioning to a gravel trail and then to bog and grass. The main climb is a steep section of approximately 150 m beside a stream to reach the plateau. A marshal directs runners west along undulating terrain to the Benbulben summit trig point, which is the turn-around point. The return descent follows a different, marshalled trail back to the finish line. The route does not go near dangerous cliff edges. The main ascent and descent are very steep.

Mandatory Kit

All runners must bring Level B mandatory kit to registration. The specific items to be carried during the race will be confirmed on the day based on conditions. The required items are:

• Waterproof jacket
• Hat or buff
• Gloves
• Whistle
• Charged mobile phone with an emergency number stored
• Foil blanket, bivvy bag, or equivalent

Runners must have a means to carry all kit. Random checks may be conducted, and failure to have required items may lead to denied entry or disqualification.

Registration & Parking

Registration opens at 9:15 AM and closes at 10:15 AM at the North Sligo Sports Complex in Grange village (F91YX25). There is no parking or registration at the race start at Luke's Bridge. A shuttle bus will transport runners the 5 km from Grange to the start. The first bus departs at 9:45 AM and the final bus departs promptly at 10:15 AM. An alternate parking option is available at Gortarowey Forest Car Park in Cashelgarran, approximately 4 km from the race start, but runners must still register in Grange first.

An early start option is available for runners who typically finish in more than 160% of the winner's time. Registration for this option closes at 9:45 AM, with the early start commencing at 10:30 AM.

Entry Information

Online entries open on 29 June 2026 at 21:00. Entry closes on 3 July 2026 at 18:00. The entry limit is 250 runners. The cost is €7 for seniors and €5 for over 65s and under 18s. This event is part of the Connacht Championship and North West League. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.