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sport · Saturday 27 June 2026 · 8:00am 
Sheephaven Half Triathlon
At Downings · Downings, Co. Donegal
At Downings · Downings, Co. Donegal
One of the most scenic middle-distance triathlons in Ireland, the Sheephaven Half draws competitive and recreational athletes from across the country to the Rosguill Peninsula each summer. This is a 70.3-style event - 1.9km swim, 90km bike, 21.1km run - set against the kind of north Donegal coastline that makes the hard miles feel worth it. If you are thinking about your first half triathlon or looking for a tough qualifier in a memorable location, this is a strong choice.
The swim takes place in the sheltered waters of Downings Bay, which gives even open-water nervous starters a relatively calm first leg. From transition, the 90km bike leg heads out via the Atlantic Drive toward Carrigart and Milford, then swings through Rathmullan and up and over the famous Knockalla Hill climb - a proper test of legs - before crossing the Harry Blaney Bridge and returning to Downings via the Mulroy Bridge. Along the way cyclists pass Ballymaskockar Strand and take in views of the Atlantic that briefly make you forget your heart rate.
The run is a two-lap half marathon course around Downings village and out to the Isle of Roy, with turnaround points on Rosapenna Drive and at Isle of Roy. It is described as a mainly flat, fast course with a few hills to keep things honest. Local spectators tend to line the village sections, which helps in the later kilometres.
The event is organised by Letterkenny 247 Triathlon Club and is sanctioned by Triathlon Ireland. The Downings Bay Hotel is the main event sponsor and sits close to the start area, making it a natural base for the weekend. Places are limited and sell out - early registration through the Triathlon Ireland race calendar is strongly advised.
Downings is on the Rosguill Peninsula in north Donegal, roughly 30km north of Letterkenny. From Letterkenny, take the N56 toward Creeslough, then follow the R245 out through Carrigart to Downings. The drive from Dublin is around three and a quarter hours via the N2 and N14. There is no reliable public transport to Downings itself, so most athletes travel by car. Event parking is provided on site - follow marshal signage on arrival and allow extra time on race morning.
Downings sits at the edge of the Atlantic on one of Donegal’s finest peninsulas, with a Blue Flag beach, good seafood, and the wild loop of the Atlantic Drive on your doorstep. A post-race weekend here is well earned. There is more to see in Downings and across Co. Donegal.
Heading to Downings in Downings? Donegal has plenty more to see. Read the Downings area guide, find what else is on, and explore the towns and villages nearby.