Storming the Castle 10K: 10th Anniversary Smashes Records in Carrickfergus
Storming the Castle 10K celebrated its 10th anniversary on Sunday, August 23, 2026 — and it was the biggest one yet.
The numbers:
🏃 1,000+ runners (sellout field)
🧒 150+ kids in the junior races
🙌 ~100 volunteers on the day
🏰 Route: Carrickfergus Amphitheatre → waterfront & marina → finish at the 12th century Norman Castle
Organised by Seapark AC under the "Ten Storms, One Castle" theme, the day also featured two Chase the Knight fun runs and a Junior Race for teenage Stormers.
🏆 Results
Men's winner: Kieran Kelly (Raheny Shamrock) — 32:12
Women's winner: Gemma Turley (Ballycastle) — 37:46, a new women's course record 🎉
Race director Andy Smyth called Turley's run a fitting highlight for the tenth anniversary event.
Community Spirit
Supporters packed the promenade and town centre all day. Deputy Mayor Bethany Carson Ferris presented the podium and team prizes, calling it one of the borough's most uplifting events.
Thanks also went to volunteers, marshals, and local partners including the Carrickfergus Air Force Cadets, Senior Gateway Club, and Vineyard Church, plus sponsors Ownies Bar and Bistro, Clanmil Housing Association, PureRunning Belfast, and The YogaLoft/StrengthLoft.
Save the Date
Storming the Castle returns for edition #11 on Sunday, August 22, 2027.
📋 Full results: seaparkac.com 📘 Facebook: Storming the Castle 10K
Results and quotes via Seapark AC and Northern Ireland World.