Sanctuary Runners is a solidarity-through-sport initiative that brings together people seeking asylum, refugees, migrants, and longer-term Irish residents through running, walking, and jogging.
With groups across Ireland and growing internationally, our model helps communities to connect, fosters integration, and supports both physical and mental wellbeing.
Guided by the principles of solidarity, friendship, and respect, we focus on positive action. Winning races isn’t our goal–making friends is!n
Our vision is of a more inclusive society where people from all backgrounds and nationalities are valued, and where community integration is properly understood and championed.
Mission
Our mission is to build bridges and bring communities together through running, jogging, and walking, creating a welcoming space for people of all backgrounds, especially migrants and people seeking protection.
Making Strides for Solidarity
We have recently launched Making Strides for Solidarity – our 5-Year Strategic Plan, setting out our vision for growth and greater impact across Ireland and internationally.
At Sanctuary Runners, we believe community integration takes planning, focus and ambition. This new strategy outlines how we will strengthen our network, expand our reach and continue building inclusive communities through solidarity in action.
You can read our full 5-Year Strategic Plan here
How we’ve grown
Sanctuary Runners started in Cork in 2018 with a simple idea: running and walking together can build friendships and community. That first year, 200 runners took part in the Cork City Marathon, representing 40 nationalities, including 51 participants from five Direct Provision centres. Growth was rapid: by 2019, we had over 1,200 runners taking part in more than 50 events nationwide.
We now have 40 groups across Ireland and a group in Brighton, England. Our Global Solidarity Run shared our message of friendship and solidarity in almost 100 countries. In 2024, the largest-ever marathon team of people seeking international protection ran with us in the Dublin Marathon. Thousands of people join our regular meetups and special events, proudly wearing our iconic blue t-shirt—a symbol of inclusion, joy, and togetherness.
We make sure everyone can participate. No fees, no barriers: we provide transport, running gear, and a warm welcome, particularly for those seeking international protection. Hundreds of volunteers help make our meetups and events possible, creating a community that celebrates connection, despite the challenges many face. Our participants are also visible in major events like the Dublin, Cork, and London marathons, running, volunteering, and cheering together.
Today, in 2026, Sanctuary Runners has over 40 local groups across Ireland, providing weekly runs and walks in cities, towns, and villages. With our growing network, small team of dedicated staff, and strong partnerships with Sport Ireland, Athletics Ireland, Canoeing Ireland, Swim Ireland, and supporters like Rethink Ireland, we help communities come together through movement, friendship, and fun. Sanctuary Runners continues to grow internationally, with groups in the UK and interest from communities across Europe and beyond. Stay tuned – new opportunities for connection and integration through sport lie ahead!
In 2024, Sanctuary Runners listened to our members across Ireland to understand how running, walking and swimming together is shaping health, connection and community. You can read our Impact Report here Impact Study here.