Duathlon National Championships — Phoenix Park

The Duathlon National Championships at Phoenix Park is the final round of the Duathlon National Series and the race where Irish duathlon titles are decided. The 2026 edition on 19 April features a run-bike-run format through the Phoenix Park — Europe's largest enclosed urban park. Organised by Belpark Triathlon Club and sanctioned by Triathlon Ireland, it also hosts the Intervarsity Duathlon Championship.

The course uses the closed roads of the Phoenix Park — flat, fast tarmac through the park's wide avenues lined with ancient trees. The run-bike-run format means two transitions, and the park's flat profile favours strong cyclists who can hold power on the bike leg. The atmosphere is competitive: this is a national championship, and the field includes club racers, age-group contenders, and elite duathletes chasing national titles. April weather in Dublin can be mixed, but the park's sheltered layout offers some protection from wind. The event is well-marshalled with clear course markings. Spectators can position themselves at multiple points around the park to see the action.

Registration is online — check popupraces.ie or the Triathlon Ireland race calendar. Triathlon Ireland licence or ODM required. Entry fees are typically €40–€60 depending on distance. The event is part of the National Series, so points are at stake for series competitors.

Phoenix Park is in west Dublin, accessible from the M50 via the Chapelizod Gate or from the city centre via the main Parkgate Street entrance. Free parking is available within the park, though some areas are closed on race day — arrive early. Dublin Bus routes serve the park entrances. The Luas Red Line stops at Heuston Station (10-minute walk to the park). The park itself has no accommodation, but Dublin city centre is 15 minutes away.

The Phoenix Park Duathlon is the competitive season opener before the triathlon season begins in earnest. The Dublin City Triathlon (August) uses the same Phoenix Park venue for its triathlon events. The Quest Glendalough Duathlon (April) is the off-road alternative for duathletes who prefer trails to tarmac. The Triathlon Ireland National Series kicks off in May with the Lough Cutra Castle Triathlon.