TriAthy — XVIII Edition

TriAthy is one of Ireland's longest-running and most popular triathlons — the XVIII edition on 30 May 2026 marks 18 years of racing on the River Barrow at Athy, Co. Kildare. Four race options from the beginner-friendly Try-a-Tri to the long-distance TA-100 make it one of the most inclusive events on the Irish triathlon calendar. The swim in the River Barrow through Athy town centre is the signature feature.

The swim takes place in the River Barrow at Athy town centre — a downstream river swim with the current assisting. The bike leg uses quiet Kildare roads, and the run follows the Barrow towpath and surrounding roads. The course is flat, which makes it fast and suits first-timers. The TA-100 long-distance option adds a serious endurance element for experienced athletes. TriAthy has a reputation for being one of the friendliest triathlon events in the country. The town gets behind it, the volunteer support is strong, and the post-race atmosphere in Athy is genuinely social. For beginners, the Try-a-Tri is one of the best first triathlon experiences available in Ireland — short distances, a river swim with current assist, and a supportive community.

Registration is through Active.com via triathy.ie. Entry opens well in advance and the event is popular — Sprint and Olympic distances tend to fill first. Check the TriAthy FAQ section on their website for detailed entry requirements, transition guidance, and course information. Triathlon Ireland licence or ODM required.

Athy is in south Co. Kildare — about 1 hour from Dublin via the M7/M9 and 1 hour from Kilkenny. Race HQ is at Barrow Quay in Athy town centre. Parking is available in the town, though spaces near the start fill quickly — arrive early. Athy has a train station on the Dublin-Waterford line (less frequent service, check schedules). The town has hotels, B&Bs, and restaurants within walking distance of the course.

TriAthy is one of the best first-triathlon options in Ireland alongside the Lough Cutra Castle Starter triathlon (May). For swimmers progressing into triathlon, the river swim format is similar to the Gaelforce Great River Swim (May). The Tribesman Triathlon in Galway (June) is the next major sprint event on the calendar. TriAthy is part of the broader Triathlon Ireland race scene — see the Dublin City Triathlon (August) for the National Series.