Cloone Triathlon

The Cloone Triathlon brings multi-sport racing to a corner of south Leitrim that was built for exactly this kind of event. The village sits close to Keeldra Lake, which has hosted open-water swimming for decades and has changing facilities on site, and the surrounding countryside offers the kind of quiet roads and off-road trail that make for honest, testing cycling and running legs. If you want a summer triathlon that feels like real Ireland rather than a city-centre production, this one is worth the drive.

What to expect

Competitors take on all three disciplines - swim, cycle, and run - in a timed format with transition zones between each stage. The Cloone area is well set up for exactly this kind of event: Keeldra Lake, roughly three kilometres from the village, is a long-established open-water swimming venue where locals have swum every summer for generations, and the Bóthar Na Naomh recreational trail network gives the run or cycle legs proper terrain. The event is open to competitors of varying abilities, with sprint and standard options typically available so it suits both first-timers and seasoned triathletes. Water safety protocols are in place for the swim leg, and participants bring their own bikes and swimming gear. Entry is €40.

Getting there

Cloone is in south Leitrim, closest to Mohill and roughly 20 kilometres from Carrick-on-Shannon. By car from Dublin, take the N4/M4 west to Longford and follow signs for Carrick-on-Shannon, then head south on the R201 towards Mohill - the journey is around two hours. Carrick-on-Shannon has a rail station on the Dublin Connolly to Sligo InterCity line, with the trip from Dublin taking just over two hours; Bus Éireann also runs services from Dublin Busáras. From Carrick, you will need a car or taxi for the final stretch to Cloone village. Parking on the day is normally roadside around the venue.

While you’re in Carrick-on-Shannon

Carrick-on-Shannon is the county town of Leitrim and sits on the River Shannon, making it a popular base for river cruising, kayaking, and waterside eating. After the race, the town has no shortage of good pubs and restaurants to refuel in. There is more to see in Carrick-on-Shannon and across Co. Leitrim.

Good to know

• Date: Saturday, 1 August 2026, starting at 9:00am
• Entry fee: €40
• Venue: Cloone, Carrick-on-Shannon, Co. Leitrim (swim leg at Keeldra Lake area)
• Check for booking: Running Calendar Ireland (runningcalendar.ie) lists the event; check there or Triathlon Ireland’s race calendar for registration links
• What to bring: Your own bike, helmet, and swimming gear; water safety is provided for the swim leg