EuropeIreland

Limerick Marathon

A welcoming, flat-leaning tour along the Shannon through the Irish midwest.

Good for Debut
4.7/10 Difficulty
227m Elevation Gain
2010 Founded

Course Map

Elevation Profile
km
mi

About this Race

The Great Limerick Run Marathon is a welcoming course through the Irish midwest city, tracing the banks of the mighty River Shannon and the streets of Limerick on largely flat, gently rolling terrain. The forgiving profile makes it accessible and reasonably fast. Held in May over the bank holiday, it offers cool spring conditions and warm, festive local crowds in one of Ireland's biggest running events. The river setting and friendly atmosphere define the day. It suits runners who want an accessible, well-supported Irish race with a flat-leaning profile in a cool-weather window.

city flat river urban

Course Insight

The Great Limerick Run is a flat-ish May marathon along the Shannon through the city, runnable on gentle terrain with the chance of mild warmth. The mostly level course leaves pacing discipline to you on the open stretches. The riverside setting is pleasant. Spring conditions are generally cool. Pace it evenly and the gentle course rewards a measured effort.

Pro tip: Hold even pace on the flat Shannonside course and enjoy the cool spring conditions.

Difficulty Breakdown

4.7/10

Mostly due to tough late hills.

Elevation
5.5
Hill Placement
7.6
Weather
0.3
Turns
4.3

How we calculate difficulty →

Course Details

Course type
Loop
Elevation gain
227m
Elevation loss
235m
Highest point
24m
Lowest point
3m
Net elevation
-8m

Race History

The Great Limerick Run Marathon was first held in 2010 as a welcoming course through the Irish midwest city, tracing the banks of the mighty River Shannon on largely flat terrain. Its forgiving profile and festive local crowds made it accessible and popular. From its founding it grew into one of Ireland's biggest running events. Held each May, it draws a large field to the river city.

Plan Your Trip

Everything you need to know to get there, get settled, and get to the start line.

Nearest airport(s)
Shannon (SNN), Dublin (DUB)
Best area to stay
The city centre for proximity to the route and full hotels, the Georgian Quarter for characterful stays, and the riverside for scenic options.
Getting to the start
The start is in the city centre; walk from central hotels, as it's a central course.

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