Waterford Viking Marathon 2025

Get ready for an unforgettable weekend of fun, fitness at the Waterford Viking Marathon 2025, happening on June 21st and 22nd in the vibrant heart of Waterford City! Whether you’re a seasoned runner, a first-timer, or simply looking for a great family outing, this event truly has something for everyone.

Experience the thrill of taking part in an event like no other, offering a range of runs to suit all ages and fitness levels:- Full Marathon, Half Marathon, 10km Run, Disability-Friendly Run, Children’s Run at RSC.

Over two action-packed days, you’ll soak up the warm hospitality and lively atmosphere of Ireland’s oldest city, founded by the Vikings. From cheering spectators to scenic routes and historical landmarks, this is more than a race – it’s a celebration of health, history, and togetherness.

Sunday 22nd June 2025 at 9am

Full Marathon

The Waterford Viking Marathon is the perfect race for both first-time marathoners and seasoned runners aiming for a personal best. With its reasonably flat and fast course, it provides an excellent opportunity to achieve a strong finishing time, making it a great stepping stone for those looking to qualify for an Abbott World Marathon Major event.

Runners will experience the stunning Waterford countryside, cross iconic bridges, and race along the breathtaking Waterford Greenway. Set in Ireland’s oldest city, this scenic and well-supported marathon delivers a world-class running experience, whether you’re chasing a goal or simply soaking in the incredible atmosphere.

The marathon begins on The Mall in the heart of Waterford City, setting the tone for a journey steeped in history and natural beauty. As you cross the start line, you’ll weave through the ancient streets of this Viking-founded city, passing historic landmarks that tell the story of Ireland’s oldest city.

The route then takes you over historic Rice Bridge, offering stunning views of the River Suir, and then the jaw-dropping Thomas Francis Meagher Bridge an experience like no other. And here’s a fun fact – this is the only race in Ireland where you’ll cross a toll bridge on foot!

You will then leave the road and head into the picturesque countryside of County Waterford. Here, you’ll experience the tranquility and charm of rural Ireland, surrounded by lush green landscapes and rolling hills.

Your run continues along the famous Waterford Greenway, celebrated for its breathtaking scenery along the River Suir. This peaceful stretch prepares you for a truly unforgettable highlight: a turn into the world-renowned Mount Congreve Gardens.

At Mount Congreve, you’ll get a sneak peak into one of “The Great Gardens of the World.” Spanning around seventy acres, these gardens feature intensively planted woodlands, a four-acre walled garden, and an impressive network of 16 kilometers of walkways. The vibrant array of thousands of trees, plants, and shrubs is sure to invigorate your senses and lift your spirits as you pass through this living masterpiece.

Rejoining the Greenway, you will be guided further out along the route before taking a turn back for the city. Here, the finish line awaits in the city center on O’Connell Street, where a lively festival atmosphere welcomes you with cheers, music, and celebration. Crossing the line, you’ll not only have completed a marathon but also experienced a journey through history, nature, and community spirit, making this an achievement to treasure forever.

Half Marathon

Looking for a challenge without the full-on commitment of a marathon? The Waterford Viking Half Marathon is your perfect match! This exciting event offers a world-class route combining the best of city vibes and stunning countryside scenery.

The Route

Starting on The Mall in Waterford City, just like the full marathon, your journey begins in the heart of Ireland’s oldest city. From there, you’ll run across two iconic bridges: first, the historic Rice Bridge, and then the jaw-dropping Thomas Francis Meagher Bridge. And here’s a fun fact – this is the only race in Ireland where you’ll cross a toll bridge on foot!

Leaving the hustle and bustle behind, you’ll head onto the renowned Waterford Greenway. This stretch is pure bliss for runners, with its peaceful trails and gorgeous views of the lush countryside. But the highlight? A special detour into the world-famous Mount Congreve Gardens. Here, you’ll get a sneak peek of its stunning beauty, featuring vibrant woodlands, colourful blooms, and serene walkways.

After soaking in the garden’s magic, it’s back onto the Greenway for the final stretch. The finish line awaits on O’Connell Street, where a hero’s welcome, pumping tunes, and cheering crowds will make your victory unforgettable.

So, lace up your runners and join the fun – the Waterford Viking Half Marathon is calling your name!

10k Marathon

We’ve revamped our Quarter Marathon into an exciting 10k run, perfect for anyone seeking a challenge or just a fun-filled experience.

This distance and route is ideal for anyone looking to get a personal best in 10k or for those looking to expand on their 5k run or maybe just get involved by walking it. This distance is for everyone.

The Route

Kicking off from The Mall in Waterford City, just like the full and half marathon, your journey starts in the heart of Ireland’s oldest city.

From there, you’ll race across two iconic bridges—first, the historic Rice Bridge, followed by the breathtaking Thomas Francis Meagher Bridge. Fun fact: this is the only race in Ireland where runners cross a toll bridge on foot!

Leaving the city’s energy behind, you’ll transition onto the stunning Waterford Greenway. This section offers a runner’s paradise—serene trails, fresh air, and panoramic views of the lush countryside as you make your way back to the city centre for a hero’s welcome at the finishing line on O’Connell Street.

Last year, we made waves attempting to break the record for the most Vikings running a quarter marathon. It was a roaring success, but in 2025, we’re taking it to the next level – bigger, better, and even more Viking spirit!

 

Disability Run

The Waterford Viking Disability Friendly Run – An Inclusive and Supportive Experience

We’re thrilled to welcome you to the Waterford Viking Disability Friendly Run, an event specially tailored for adults with disabilities. Covering just over 8km, this inclusive run ensures a safe, supportive, and enjoyable environment for all participants.

The Route

Starting on Grattan Quay, the course takes you across the iconic Rice Bridge and the breathtaking Thomas Francis Meagher Bridge. You’ll pass through the toll bridge (a unique highlight!) before joining the scenic Waterford Greenway.

The route leads back to Grattan Quay, where the finish line awaits with a warm but quiet welcoming atmosphere. All participants will receive a medal, t-shirt, and goodie bag.

Whether you’re looking to challenge yourself, enjoy the experience, or simply take part in this inclusive celebration of fitness and community, the Waterford Viking Disability Friendly Run is for you. We can’t wait to see you cross that finish line!

Supportive Measures in Place

To ensure every participant feels comfortable and supported, we’ve introduced:

A quiet start and finish line for a calm and relaxed atmosphere.
Additional water stations along the route.
Extra toilets for convenience.
The option to have a support runner or walker accompany participants.
Trained stewards stationed throughout the course for assistance.
Signage every 500 meters to assure participants they are going in the right direction.
Headphones allowed for those to drown out sounds or who prefer their favorite tunes or calming audio.

Children's Run

The Waterford Viking Marathon will host their first ever children’s run in 2025. This event will be held in the fun but safe environment of the RSC in Waterford from 9.30am.

Here we will have a number of races taking part on Saturday the 21st of June, the day before the adults event. Currently there are the following races to register for:- 200m, 500m, 1km, 2.5km.

Please enter the children in the distance appropriate to their age group. This will be clear when registering. There will be many children running shorter distances, so don’t feel they need to run the distance recommended for their age group.

This is a fun run, all participants will receive a medal for their participation.

Virtual Run

A virtual run offers flexibility, convenience, and motivation—allowing you to run anywhere, anytime while still being part of a larger event.

Whether you’re training for a race, looking to stay active, or supporting a cause, virtual runs let you set your own pace and route. They’re perfect for those with busy schedules, providing the freedom to complete the distance at a time that suits you.

Plus, you still get the sense of achievement, a finisher’s medal and t-shirt, and often a community to share your success with—all without the pressure of race-day logistics!

By registering, you also have the chance to make a difference by raising funds for our 2025 charity partner, the RNLI, or any charity close to your heart. Whether it’s a cause you believe in or a local group you support, your participation helps make a meaningful impact.