Great Limerick Run Marathon
LimerickIreland
Next race
Sunday, 2 May 2027
9:00 am start
Distance
42.195 km / 26.2 mi
Urban road
Elevation
Rolling · 100 m gain
100 m climbing
Race profile
Overview
The Great Limerick Run Marathon draws approximately 1,650 finishers each May on an urban road in Limerick, Ireland. It is the biggest mass-participation sporting event outside Dublin and anchors the city's running calendar. The route passes the River Shannon, Georgian streets, and broad city roads through Limerick's main districts. Gentle undulations are the only breaks on an otherwise flat profile.
Great Limerick Run Marathon is a certified 42.195 km (26.2 mile) marathon — the standard World Athletics marathon distance.
- Typical participants
Approximately 1,650 finishers
- Weather
Course & terrain
Great Limerick Run Marathon course
Course route details and elevation profile for race-week planning.
Starts at Pery Square and finishes on O'Connell Street in Limerick. The route passes the River Shannon, Georgian streets, and broad city roads through Limerick's main districts. Mostly flat with gentle undulations. Very flat throughout.
The Great Limerick Run Marathon course is rolling over 42.195 km (26.2 miles). Runners cover 100 metres of climbing and 95 metres of descent, with a net climb of 5 metres from start to finish.
- Elevation
Rolling · 100 m gain — approx. 7 m above sea level
↑ 100 m · ↓ 95 m · net +5 m
Registration
Great Limerick Run Marathon entry requirements
The Great Limerick Run Marathon uses open online registration at greatlimerickrun.com with no ballot or qualifying time for the general field. Sign-up for the May race typically opens the previous year and places are allocated first-come, first-served. Charity bibs are available through partner organisations when general entry closes.
Getting there
Great Limerick Run Marathon travel
Airports closest to Limerick for flight planning and race-week travel.
- Closest airport
Shannon (SNN)
Shannon Airport
21 km / 13 mi
Common questions
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is the Great Limerick Run Marathon elevation profile?
- The Great Limerick Run Marathon has 100 metres of total climbing and 95 metres of descent over 42.195 km (26.2 miles). The course is rolling, with 5 metres of net climb from start to finish.
- How long is the Great Limerick Run Marathon?
- The Great Limerick Run Marathon is the standard marathon distance of 42.195 kilometres (26.2 miles), certified to World Athletics rules. Starts at Pery Square and finishes on O'Connell Street in Limerick.
- What time does the Great Limerick Run Marathon start?
- The 2027 Great Limerick Run Marathon starts at 9:00 am local time on Sunday, 2 May 2027. Arrive early for baggage drop and corral access — official race communications confirm any last-minute schedule changes.
- Where does the Great Limerick Run Marathon start and finish?
- Starts at Pery Square and finishes on O'Connell Street in Limerick. Updated each year.
- When is the Great Limerick Run Marathon and how do I register?
- Great Limerick Run Marathon is typically held in May. Registration opens may use a lottery or tiered entry when demand exceeds capacity.
- Is the Great Limerick Run Marathon course flat?
- Yes. Great Limerick Run Marathon is known for a largely flat profile with only minor undulations, making it popular with runners chasing steady pacing.
- What landmarks does the Great Limerick Run Marathon pass?
- Runners see the River Shannon, Pery Square, and the city-centre finish on O'Connell Street.
- What weather should runners expect at Great Limerick Run Marathon?
- Usually mild with soft Atlantic air and a chance of light rain.
Official resources
Great Limerick Run Marathon links
Websites
Social Media
Last updated 11 October 2026. Edition dates and course details are reviewed regularly.
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Planning guides
Related guides
Practical guides to help you plan, train for, and run this race.
Marathon Course Profiles Explained
What flat, rolling, and hilly really mean — and how to read elevation gain, net change, and altitude on a marathon course.
Marathon Weather: What to Expect
How temperature, humidity, wind, and rain affect marathon performance — and how to use typical race-day weather when choosing a start line.
How to Choose a Marathon
Match a race to your goals — personal bests, sightseeing, atmosphere, or a major milestone — using course data and realistic expectations.