The Aer Arann Islands Half Marathon on Inis Mór is back, raising vital funds to support patients in the Mater Public Hospital and promising ceol, craic and camaraderie on the weekend of April 10 – 12.
Participants will touch down on the Aran Island for a weekend of action, breathtaking natural beauty and community, with the marathon itself taking place on the morning of Saturday, 11th April 2026.
Once again this year, the Mater Hospital Foundation and Aer Arann Islands are asking runners, joggers and walkers to join in the fun and participate in this marathon with a difference, with weekend, one-night, day trip and marathon only packages available.
The Half Marathon is a one-of-a-kind experience, offering the opportunity to take in the spectacular and scenic surroundings of Inis Mór and to soak up the atmosphere, ceol and culture that the island has to offer.
This unique event is raising vital funds for the Mater Hospital Foundation, with proceeds going to fund new equipment and projects to support staff and patients where it is needed most in the hospital.
Over the past three years, the Aer Arann Islands Half Marathon has raised just over €300k to transform and improve patient care in the Mater, which provides expert, specialist treatment to patients and their families from across Ireland each year.
Mary Moorhead, Chief Executive of the Mater Hospital Foundation, said, “The Aer Arann Islands Half Marathon has become one of the true highlights of our calendar, and we are honoured and excited to be heading back for a fourth amazing year.”
“The welcome our marathoners receive on the island from the residents, volunteers and the Half Marathon Committee is simply like no other, and this magic weekend wouldn’t be possible without their kindness and generosity.”
She adds, “We are delighted to welcome participants travelling from the US and Canada to soak up the Gaeltacht surroundings, as well as runners, joggers and walkers from all corners of Ireland.”
“If you would like to do something really special this spring, I’d urge you to sign up and take part in what will be a weekend to remember.”
Peter Mc Kenna, Managing Director, Aer Arann Islands shares, “This year, Aer Arann Islands is delighted to work with the Mater Hospital Foundation and the Inis Mór community to create another unforgettable and enjoyable experience whilst, at the same time, raising much needed funds to purchase vital equipment for the Mater Hospital.”
“The entire route passes through magnificent coastline scenery with world famous views of wide bays and sandy beaches.”
“So, whether you run, walk, or jog, the Aer Arann Islands Half Marathon is a unique and memorable experience for all involved. Thank you for your participation for this great cause and we look forward to flying you there.”
Get your ticket and fundraising page today by visiting www.materfoundation.ie/aerarann or by contacting the Mater Hospital Foundation’s Community and Events Specialist Angela McNulty at amcnulty@materfoundation.ie.
You can also find out more by visiting www.materfoundation.ie or call the Mater Hospital Foundation on 01 830 3482.
