Founded in 1944, Blackrock A.C. has grown from a small volunteer military unit into one of Ireland’s largest athletic clubs. We are a community-focused club dedicated to physical and mental wellbeing, helping members of all ages and abilities build fitness, skills and confidence.

Our History & Growth

  • Legacy
    Since our first national title in 1950, the club has gone from strength to strength.
  • Inclusion
    While originally men-only due to the era’s social constraints, we have spent the last 50 years building a diverse membership and are proud to have a thriving women’s section.
  • Elite & Grassroots
    We have shaped the careers of national champions, but we remain equally committed to grassroots athletics, supporting every member to achieve their personal best.

 

Why Train With Us?

  • Expert Coaching
    Our team is highly experienced, qualified, and Garda-vetted. It includes national champions and specialists in everything from 60m sprints to ultramarathons.
  • Diverse Disciplines
    We cater to track and field, cross country, road, and trail running.
  • Safe & Inclusive
    We provide a supportive, friendly atmosphere with a strong sense of community at every training session.

 

Our Sections

We are a club for life, catering to athletes at every stage:

  • Academy & Juveniles
    Encouraging a love for sport in children from age 6+.

  • Juniors
    Supporting teenagers as they specialise or run for fitness.

  • Adult Section (Men, Women & Fit4Life)
    From beginner joggers to elite competitive athletes.

Couch to 5k

(New start 15th September 2026)

Come join us and build up to running a 5k distance over 9 weeks.

Starting in Week 1 with a 5 mins walk and 20 mins run/walk (in reps of 1m run/1m walk) and increasing time spent running across 9 weeks, with a final target of approximately 35 mins running continuously! Yes, you can do this!

Our focus is helping you reach your target and having fun while doing so!

Join us at the clubhouse at Carysfort Park on Tuesdays and Thursdays at 6:30pm for a guided session with our club coaches. We recommend you repeat the drills yourself at the weekend or do your own walk/run drill for about 30 minutes.

Our aim is to run the Shanganagh Parkrun together on Saturday at the end of 9 weeks.

Once you complete the 9 week programme you are welcome to join us at any of our training/running sessions which are run throughout the week.

We are offering this 9 week programme at a great Introductory Price of €60 which includes annual membership of the club and registration with Athletics Ireland. See training times.

 

Fit4Life

Launched in 2013, our Fit4Life programme offers a social, pressure-free environment for recreational runners. Whether you want a chat while you jog or are training for your first marathon, we provide a safe, organised space for all abilities. See training times.

Men

The Men’s section is open to all adult runners with some experience. We cater to various abilities, from those comfortable with a 10k up to elite level. Our sessions are designed to be social and relaxed while providing the motivation to push your personal goals. See training times. 

Women

The Women’s section welcomes adult runners of all ages and abilities. Most of our members can run at least 5km and enjoy a relaxed, encouraging atmosphere designed to help you reach your personal running goals. See training times.

Racing & Socials

While training is our core, the social side is just as important.

  • Key Races: We regularly target the Women’s Mini Marathon, Raheny 5-mile, Meet & Train leagues, and the Dublin Race Series/Marathon.

  • Social Events: We host group meals twice a year, weekend away trips, and the annual Rory Byrne Run to the Forty Foot after Christmas. Most weekend sessions end with a social coffee and chat.