Deep RiverRock Queen’s 5k ‘Race Round the River’

The date has been set for this year's Deep RiverRock  'Race Round the River'.

On Wednesday 11 March 2026 over 1,000 runners will once again transform the Stranmillis and Annadale embankments into one of the most exciting race nights in Northern Ireland.

Following the hugely successful race format first introduced in 2024, three races will take place on the night, ensuring an unforgettable experience for runners of all abilities:

• 3km Run - starts 6:50pm
•  Elite 5km - starts 7:15pm (open to athletes with a sub-20-minute 5k)
•  Open 5km - starts 7:35pm

Whether you’re chasing a personal best, taking part with friends, or simply soaking up the electric atmosphere, there’s a race for everyone, including University staff, students, and the wider community.

This year’s race is again supported by principal partner Deep RiverRock with additional support from Belfast City Council's  - Support for Sport Fund.

All entrants will receive a specially branded event t-shirt, with prizes for the top three finishers in each race. The event is set to attract some of the best local, national, and international 5k athletes.

As always Deep RiverRock will be on hand on the night to keep racers hydrated with locally sourced water in their 100% Recycled Bottles!

Calling All Queen's Staff

Queen's Staff Wellbeing are actively encouraging colleagues to get involved this year, highlighting the benefits of taking time to move, reset, and enjoy being active together - whether walking, jogging, or racing - as part of building positive, lifelong habits. They are also generously offering 20 FREE staff places, along with a selection of spot prizes for Queen’s staff taking part in either the 3km Run or 5km Open Run. These will be allocated on a first come, first served basis.

Queen’s staff who wish to avail of a FREE entry for the 3km or 5km are asked to email Staff Wellbeing at staffwellbeing@qub.ac.uk to register their place.

If you have any questions, please contact Wellbeing Officer Gary Kane at gary.kane@qub.ac.uk 

For more information about this year's races visit www.queenssport5k.com

Email: 5kraceadmin@qub.ac.uk

Registration Now OPEN