Warriors Run
Gortarowey, Ireland • 22 Aug 2026
Warriors Run : Strandhill, County Sligo
The Warriors Run is a 15 kilometre multi-terrain race that starts at the Cannon Gun on Strandhill beachfront, climbs to the summit of Knocknarea, loops around Queen Maeve’s cairn, and returns to the beachfront. Knocknarea’s summit sits at about 1,070 ft and contains a megalithic cairn where Queen Maeve is reputedly buried.
The course combines paved roads and off-road sections. Approximately nine kilometres are on paved roads while a central six kilometre section ascends and descends the mountain. That middle section includes a roughly 700 foot climb through fields, loose gravel, unsurfaced and heather paths. The route contains steep inclines and potentially slippery slopes on the descent.
The event is traditionally attended by around 1,200 runners. All competitors who complete the course receive a bespoke medal. For 2026 the race date is Saturday 22 August. Registration for the Warriors Run is closed for 2026 and the event is full. Registration for the Warriors Walk and the Young Warriors Run is scheduled to open on Friday 22 May at 4pm.
A portion of the course marked in red on the official map goes over private property and will be open only on race day; participants are advised to use public paths and roads for training. The organisers welcome volunteer support for the event. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.