THE MIDDLE: OF THE NIGHT, OF NOWHERE
On January 16th, 2026, the Art O’Neill (AON) will once again escape from Dublin Castle. In the escape of 1592 the Castle wardens gave chase, but gave up due to poor weather.
The event will start from Dublin Castle heading out through South Dublin , eventually passing Stone Cross and eventually continues over open mountain via Art’s Cross to its finish at Glenmalure. The event is fully supported, with Dublin & Wicklow Mountain Rescue Team at hand should help be needed.
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Entries for both the Challenge (62km) and Pursuit (25km) are capped at 200.
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The Ballot for Challenge places will open in October 2025 and close on October 11th 2025. It costs €5 (non refundable) to participate in the ballot.Places will be offered by email around Wednesday 15th October with successful ballot applicants given a one week window to sign up before their place if unclaimed is offered to the next person on the ballot list.
The AON Pursuit
Our new event, the AON Pursuit, is a nighttime race from Dublin Castle to Kippure Estate, Co. Wicklow.
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25km road race - a great intro to AON!
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Suitable for runners only, no walkers
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Dublin Castle to Kippure Estate
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Entry limited to 200 places
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Entries are not transferable
The AON Challenge
The AON Challenge continues to claim its place as one of the toughest outdoor events in Ireland.
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62km route on road and open mountain
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Suitable for runners and walkers
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Dublin Castle to Glenmalure
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Entry limited to 200 places - decided by ballot
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Entries are not transferrable
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Refunds are not allowed