Gaelforce Great River Festival 2026
RIVER SHANNON Kayak Marathon
EVENT DATE: 16 May 2026
Ireland’s newest kayak marathon race takes place as part of the Gaelforce Great River Festival on 16 May 2026. A fast-flowing, portage-filled 22km challenge starting on the Royal Canal and finishing in Lanesborough River Side with the festival atmosphere at the finish.
Designed for K1 and K2 racing, this is a point-to-point test with portages, canal paddling, and a final section on the Shannon. Changing facilities and food and drink will be available at the finish.
The course
Route explained: The map includes the opening 2km down-and-back used to spread competitors before the first portage at Lock 43.
The race starts at Lock 43 on the Royal Canal, beside St Patrick’s Catholic Church in Aghnaskea. Competitors park in Lanesborough and are shuttled to the start with their kayaks.
The course opens with a 2km down-and-back to spread the field. Paddle from Lock 43 to a turning buoy 1km south of the start, then back to Lock 43 and into the first portage. From there, it continues through locks and portages towards Cloondara and the river.
After the final lock, you enter the River Shannon approximately 200m later near Termonbarry. Turn left and head downriver to Lanesborough with 12km to go.
After passing under the bridge in Lanesborough, there is 500m to the finish beside the Gaelforce Great River Festival.
Boat Requirements
Recommended: K1 (Singles) and K2 (Doubles) racing kayaks
Allowed but not ideal: Surf Skis
Not allowed: sea kayaks, sit-on-tops, plastic recreational boats
Each kayaker will be equipped with a tracker so family and friends can follow progress live (subject to final confirmation).
What’s included
- Exclusive finishers t-shirts
- Live GPS tracker
- Event parking
- Bus to start line
- Changing marquee at finish line
- Post-event food, hot drinks & live music at the Gaelforce River Swim Festival
- Rescue power boats in river section
- First aid, doctor with medical & safety team
- Event photography
