Famine Way Ultra
Famine Way Ultra 2026
Famine Way Ultra is a long-distance running event held on 1st - 2nd August 2026 that follows the historical Famine Way route in reverse. The event traces the route taken by Strokestown tenants who were marched from Roscommon to Dublin in 1847; many later boarded ships to Liverpool and North America and became known as the "Missing 1490". The 2026 edition starts at the Famine Statues in Dublin and finishes at Strokestown Park Estate, Co. Roscommon.
Distances:
- 105 mile ultra
- 50 mile option starting near Mullingar
The 105 mile route is described as being around 105 miles and is slightly longer than the Famine Way's stated 165 km because of some alternate sections. Much of the course runs beside the Royal Canal, which keeps the route relatively traffic free and relatively flat.
Support and logistics include fixed and mobile aid stations, on-course tracking, trained medics, event insurance, and bespoke finishing medals (a buckle is a possible alternative depending on entries). The 105 mile race will have a strict cutoff at the 50 mile mark. Runners may have personal crew support; pacers or buddy runners are not permitted unless formally entered. There will be at least two fixed aid stations with drop bag access on the full ultra and three fixed stations on the 50 mile option.
Participants must carry essential kit items; an example list is given and will be confirmed before the event. Finish facilities include free parking and toilets; there are no showers and public transport access is limited. Accommodation near the finish includes a small hotel, B&Bs, and a nearby camping option. Transport to the starts may be arranged by private coach if demand covers the cost; transport is not included in entry. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.