King of the Hill Triathlon - Kinsale

A sprint triathlon in Kinsale that earns its name the hard way - a 750m sea swim, a hilly 23km bike leg through south Cork’s backroads, and a run that ends with the Castlepark Hill climb. Organised by Cork Triathlon Club, the King of the Hill has been running since at least 2014 and draws a reliable mix of seasoned competitors and first-timers tackling a proper open-water event for the first time. The distances are sprint category, which makes it accessible, but the terrain means no one finishes without working for it.

What to expect

The race starts at Dock Beach in Kinsale Harbour - a sheltered, calm stretch of water that suits open-water swimmers who are not yet comfortable in exposed coastal conditions. From there, athletes transition to bike and head out on an undulating 23km loop through Garylucas and Garretstown, along the coast past sandy beaches, through Ballinaspittle (past the famous moving statue), before looping back to Kinsale. The route takes in a stretch past the Speckled Door and through inland villages before the final return leg.

The run is a 5km out-and-back that saves the sting for last - Castlepark Hill. It is a genuine climb that tests legs already spent from the bike, but the views from the top are a fair reward. Experienced participants describe it as breath-taking in more ways than one.

Cork Triathlon Club provides route maps and a beginner’s guide on their website. Registration is handled through Triathlon Ireland. Spaces are limited each year, so early entry is recommended.

Getting there

Kinsale sits roughly 28km south of Cork city on the R600. By car from Cork, allow 35-40 minutes depending on traffic. There is no direct public bus to Kinsale on race day, so most participants drive. Parking in Kinsale can be tight in summer - arriving early is sensible. Dock Beach is at the lower end of the harbour, signposted from the town centre.

While you’re in Kinsale

Kinsale has a well-earned reputation as one of Cork’s finest towns - good food, a working harbour, historic forts, and well-kept streets. Race day or not, it is worth staying on for a meal. There is more to see in Kinsale and across Co. Cork.

Good to know

• Saturday 18 July 2026, starting at 9:00am
• Sprint triathlon: 750m swim, 23km bike, 5km run
• Registration fee applies - enter via the Triathlon Ireland website (corktri.com links through)
• Organised by Cork Triathlon Club
• Spaces are limited - check corktri.com for registration status