Date set for eighth annual charity 5km fun run at Ireland West Airport
The annual charity runway fun run at Ireland West Airport has been launched, with organisers hoping this year’s event will be particularly special as the airport celebrates its 40th anniversary.
Now in its eighth year, the popular 5km run will take place on Saturday, September 19 at 7.15pm, offering runners and walkers the rare chance to take off down the runway themselves.
The course offers a very different experience from the usual parkrun loop, one that participants are unlikely to have logged on Strava before.
Ireland West Airport is inviting runners, joggers and walkers of all abilities to take part in the event, which promises a memorable experience that will also help to raise money for charity.
The event is organised in partnership with Mayo-founded company Portwest, and this year it will support six charities, including Cancer Care West, Family Centre Castlebar, Liver Ireland Support Network, Mayo Mental Health Association, Pancreatic Cancer Ireland, and Sunflower Children’s Hospice.
Managing Director at Ireland West Airport, Joe Gilmore, said he was delighted to welcome the event back for its eighth year and said he hopes a record-breaking sum will be raised for the charities, as this year’s run will take place during the airport’s 40th anniversary year.
“This year, we are proud to partner with six new charities, recognising the incredible work they do in their local communities and beyond,” he said,
“Last year we raised a record €54,000 for our charity partners, and we hope to exceed this amount in 2026, which will be particularly poignant as we celebrate the 40th anniversary of the official opening of the airport later this month.”
Senior Commercial Manager at Portwest Ireland, Damien Fee, said the business was proud to partner with the airport once again for the annual fun run.
“This unique event continues to grow from strength to strength, bringing communities together while promoting health, wellbeing, and meaningful support for a range of deserving charities,
“We are delighted to play a role in helping these organisations continue their vital work. Portwest wishes every success to all the charities involved and to each participant taking part in this year’s event,” he said.
The airport has advised that participant numbers will be limited and is encouraging early registration to avoid disappointment.
Entry costs €20 for adults and €5 for under-16s, with a family rate of €40 available for two adults and two children.
All participants will receive a race T-shirt, while complimentary parking and refreshments will be provided on the day.
A virtual option will also be available for those who wish to support the charities but cannot attend in person, allowing participants to complete their run or walk at a location of their choice.
This article has been funded by the Local Democracy Reporting Scheme.