Beyond the Wall 2026: A Race to Remember

On Saturday 13 June, athletes, supporters and volunteers once again gathered at Castle Ward for the fifth edition of Beyond the Wall—and what a day it was.

Set against the spectacular backdrop of Strangford Lough and the Castle Ward Estate, the race has quickly become one of the standout events on the Irish triathlon calendar. Having been shortlisted for Triathlon Ireland’s 2025 Race of the Year, the 2026 event returned as Round 4 of the Triathlon National Series, welcoming hundreds of athletes from clubs across the country.

A course with real character

Beyond the Wall is not an easy sprint triathlon—and that is part of its appeal.

The day began with a rolling start from Coal Quay into the sheltered salt water of Strangford Lough. From there, athletes made the short run into transition before heading onto the rolling bike course towards Downpatrick.

Competitors then faced the now-famous climb through the Castle Ward grounds, known locally as Dave’s Hill. It demanded plenty from the legs, but the panoramic views across the estate and surrounding countryside provided a fitting reward.

The final discipline took athletes onto Castle Ward’s trails, along the shoreline and past Audley’s Castle, before a fast and atmospheric finish in the historic Farmyard. It is a course that is challenging, scenic and unmistakably Beyond the Wall.

Excellent racing at the front

The open race was won by Conor Maguire of Omagh Triathlon Club, who produced a strong all-round performance to cross the line in 1:05:45. Craig Harrison of TUNA Triathlon Club finished second, with Callum O’Neill of Belpark Triathlon Club completing the podium.

Helen Perry of Lisburn Triathlon Club claimed victory in the female race in 1:11:01.

There was also a fantastic result for the host club, with Kirsty Kee and Eirin Corbett securing second and third places, giving Down Triathlon Club two athletes on the female podium. A proud moment for the club and a brilliant reward for two excellent performances.

The next generation goes Beyond the Wall

One of the most important developments in 2026 was the introduction of the first Beyond the Wall Youth Aquathlon.

Young athletes aged 11 to 17 had the opportunity to compete in a swim-and-run event within the same beautiful Castle Ward setting. The race formed part of the Triathlon Ireland Youth Series and represented another important step in making multisport accessible and exciting for the next generation.

The young athletes also played a part in creating the event itself. The official medals featured designs by junior triathletes Sophia and Yvaine, adding something unique and personal to the occasion.

A club and community effort

While the performances of the athletes provide the visible excitement, a race of this scale is only possible because of the work taking place behind the scenes.

From the early planning and course preparation to registration, transition, water safety, marshalling and the finish-line celebrations, Beyond the Wall is built through the efforts of a huge team of volunteers.

Our sincere thanks go to Race Director Brian Corry, the organising team, Triathlon Ireland officials, the National Trust at Castle Ward, Strangford Sailing Club, the emergency and safety teams, the police, marshals and every club member who gave their time.

We are also extremely grateful to our title sponsor, Hillyard House, and to all the sponsors, partners and local organisations whose support helped us deliver another memorable event.

Most importantly, thank you to every athlete who travelled to County Down and took on the course. Whether you were chasing a National Series result, completing your first triathlon or simply testing yourself on Dave’s Hill, we hope you left Castle Ward with good memories—and perhaps slightly tired legs.

Beyond the Wall continues to grow, but its character remains the same: a challenging race in an extraordinary setting, delivered with the warmth and community spirit of Down Triathlon Club.

Congratulations to everyone who went Beyond the Wall in 2026. We look forward to welcoming you back.