WATCH 2026 Regeneron Great Limerick Run expecting record numbers once again

The launch of the Regeneron Great Limerick Run 2026 took place at Limerick Strand Hotel on January 26, 2026. The Run takes place on Sunday, May 3rd over the May Bank Holiday weekend and is in its 17th year. Picture: Olena Oleksienko/ilovelimerick

The Regeneron Great Limerick Run 2026 was officially launched, with this year’s event expected to attract record-breaking participation, building on the 18,000 participants in 2025

The Regeneron Great Limerick Run 2026 was officially launched at the Limerick Strand Hotel, with this year’s event once again expected to attract record-breaking participation over the May Bank Holiday Weekend, with registration now open online.

Following last year’s phenomenal success, which saw over 18,000 participants take part across the weekend, organisers are preparing for another milestone year as the event continues to grow in scale, popularity, and impact.

The Regeneron Great Limerick Run is widely regarded as the largest mass participation sporting event outside of Dublin and is an event in the Limerick Calendar, generating significant social, cultural, and economic benefits for the city and region.

advertisement
advertisement

advertisement
advertisement

advertisement
advertisement

advertisement
advertisement

Mayor of the City and County of Limerick, John Moran, noted the event’s continued importance to Limerick’s reputation as a vibrant, active, and welcoming city, “We’re all well aware just how big a sporting event the Great Limerick Run is, which is now sewn into the fabric of our May Bank Holiday Riverfest weekend each year.

“It is also more than that, as it brings our city and county together into a wonderful social and cultural occasion, with families, volunteers, visitors and of course the athletes filling our streets with the different kind of energy that Limerick is famous for.. It reflects the Limerick we are building – more healthy, more vibrant and more confident for our future. I wonder who will be our new Ava Crean this year?!”

Niall O’Leary, Senior Vice President, Site Head at Regeneron Ireland, reaffirmed the company’s pride in its ongoing partnership, “As proud title sponsors of the Regeneron Great Limerick Run, it is a privilege to once again support an event that brings our community together in celebration of fitness, perseverance, and generosity.

“This year, with thousands of runners taking to the streets, the race continues to unite people from all walks of life—whether seasoned athletes or newcomers—all driven by a shared sense of purpose and camaraderie.

“Regeneron’s commitment to the Limerick community remains steadfast, and we are dedicated to fostering opportunities for wellness and connection. My heartfelt thanks go to the organisers, volunteers, and every participant who contributes to making this event such a memorable occasion. Wishing everyone an inspiring and successful race day.”

Sliabh Wells, Managing Director of The Bear Group (Event Organiser), welcomed the continued support of Regeneron and highlighted the ongoing development of the event, “The Regeneron Great Limerick Run continues to grow year after year, and 2026 promises to be another record-breaking edition. Last year’s turnout of 18,000 participants was our biggest ever, and we’re on course to exceed that once again. We’re also immensely proud that the event raised over €300,000 for local and national charities — a testament to the generosity and community spirit of all involved.

“We’d like to thank all of our partners and supporters — especially our title sponsors Regeneron for their continued commitment, Limerick City and County Council for their invaluable support in facilitating the event, and Crescent Shopping Centre for backing the Volunteer Programme, which helps raise over €20,000 for local sports and cultural groups. Finally, to the people of Limerick — thank you. Your enthusiasm, support, and pride in this event are what make it so special.”

As in previous years, both the Marathon and Half Marathon have been designated by the Munster Athletics Council as their official Munster Championship races, attracting top-level athletes alongside thousands of recreational runners and walkers. The Regeneron Great Limerick Run remains the only ‘Tier One’ sporting event in the Mid-West region, further cementing its status as one of Ireland’s premier running experiences.

Register for this year’s Regeneron Great Limerick Run online now!