Mayo airport and Portwest launch 2026 charity 5km runway fun run
Ireland West Airport Knock in partnership with Portwest, is delighted to announce that the hugely popular annual 5k runway fun run will take place on the runway on Saturday, September 19, at 7.15 p.m. Runners and walkers will gather on the runway and complete a 5km course with a difference.
All are welcome to attend for what promises to be a fantastic evening for all the family, raising much needed funds for the airport’s charity partners. The airport charity partners for 2026 are Cancer Care West, Family Centre Castlebar, Liver Ireland Support Network, Mayo Mental Health Association, Pancreatic Cancer Ireland, and Sunflower Children’s Hospice.
Entry to the event costs €20 per adult and €5 for under-16’s. A special family rate of €40 will be available for families of 2 adults and 2 children. All participants will receive a race t-shirt, complimentary car parking, and refreshments at the airport will be provided on the day. Participants can sign up and also find more information by visiting here.
The number of participants is restricted and those interested are advised to register early to avoid disappointment. A 'Virtual Option' will also be available again this year for those who wish to support the charities but are unable to make it on the day, and they can also do a virtual run or walk.
Commenting at the launch of the annual 5km runway fun run, Joe Gilmore, Managing Director, Ireland West Airport said: “We are delighted to launch our hugely popular airport runway run for the eighth year. It’s always a fantastic event, raising over €20,000 annually for our charity partners. This year, we are proud to partner with six new charities, recognising the incredible work they do in their local communities and beyond. 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”
Commenting on behalf of the Runway Run sponsor Portwest Ireland, Senior Commercial Manager Damien Fee said: "Portwest are proud to partner with Ireland West Airport Knock for the eighth consecutive year in support of the Runway 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.”