On Thursday evening (February 12) competitors will line the streets of Armagh to witness runners from across the globe take part in what is now regarded as the “fastest road race in the world!”
The 2026 edition of the Armagh International Road Race celebrates its 34th year and is expected to see participating athletes clock up some of the most impressive personal bests.
Organised by Armagh Athletic Club the event came about through the “incredible in-depth, consistent standard of the Men’s 5k over many years” which they say has been highlighted by the fact that “no other race brings together so many athletes running under 15 minutes”.
Last year, a total of 155 runners recorded sub-15 times!
Proving their global recognition, organisers say that no fewer than 167 of the 220 finishers in last year’s race were from outside the island of Ireland.
This year’s race programme – sponsored by On and Armagh Sports & Trophies – will see the 11 underage category races commence at 6.30pm sharp on the Mall.
At 8.10pm, the On International Women’s 3K will commence followed by the On International Men’s 5k at 8.30pm.
The Linwoods & XMiles sponsored Men’s 3k signals the final race of the evening crossing the starting line at 8.55pm.
Entrants in the Armagh 3k & 5k races can pick up their numbers from the Armagh City Hotel on Wednesday (February 11) from 10am until 8pm and on Thursday (February 12) from 11am until 3pm.
After the cut off at the Hotel on Thursday, the numbers will then be available in the Crozier Hall on the Mall from 4pm until races start.
All juvenile entrants can pick up their numbers from the Crozier Hall from 4pm on Thursday until races start.
Some road closures will be in place on Thursday evening. The Mall East will close from 5pm to allow the juvenile races to take place and a portion of Barrack Street (near the Gaol) will also close from 8pm for runners’ safety.
