The Cape Clear Island Races

The Cape Clear Island Races

The Cape Clear Island Races are a trail running event on Cape Clear Island (Inis Cléire) off West Cork (Corcaigh), organised as part of OuterEdge Éire. The island sits in Roaring Water Bay and is reached by a 30–35 minute ferry from the harbour village of Baltimore.

Only two chartered race boats are provided for the event and return ferry travel is included in the race ticket. The number of raceboat places is limited; once the boats reach capacity no further raceboat places are available. Runners who travel independently must be on the island well before their race start.

Routes cross quiet paved lanes and single-track trails, with rough island paths, steep climbs and rolling descents. The course reveals views across the archipelago, including the Fastnet Lighthouse roughly 6 km away. After the race the medal ceremony takes place on the island and is followed by music and a celebratory pint in the island pub beer garden.

Distances:

• Half Marathon
• 10 km

Mandatory kit includes trail shoes, waterproof jacket, foil blanket, whistle, waist pack or backpack, a fully charged mobile phone with race contacts stored, and emergency food. Accommodation on Cape Clear is limited; Baltimore and Skibbereen offer additional options and services. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.