Diversity and Inclusion – Irish Life Dublin Marathon
The Irish Life Dublin Marathon believes in the power of running to bring people together, regardless of background, ability, or circumstance. We are committed to making our events as inclusive, welcoming, and accessible as possible. Our approach to diversity and inclusion evolves yearly, guided by participant feedback and a deep commitment to fairness and respect.
Inclusive Representation
We strive for diversity in all our content, ensuring that athletes from various backgrounds, abilities, and communities are represented and celebrated. Visibility matters, and we aim to reflect the diverse running community that makes the Dublin Marathon special.
Equity in Participation and Recognition
- Equal Prize Money for Male and Female Athletes: We ensure that all competitors are equally recognised and rewarded in each relevant category, upholding our commitment to gender equity at every level of the event.
- Wheelchair Users: The Dublin Marathon was one of the first city marathons in Europe to offer entries for assisted wheelchair users. We proudly feature assisted wheelchair participants and their support teams and continue to make course adjustments to ensure the route is accessible and supportive for all wheelchair participants.
- Pregnancy Policy: The Dublin Marathon offers a deferral policy for pregnant or postpartum participants, allowing them to postpone their entry to a future race. Deferrals are valid for up to three years, providing flexibility and respect for each runner’s journey
Accessibility and Facilities
We are committed to removing barriers and creating an environment where all participants feel supported and included. Some of our initiatives include:
- Designated Female Toilets: Marked facilities with female staff for added comfort and safety.
- Wheelchair Access: Wheelchair-friendly spectator zones at Castleknock village
- Quiet Zone in Phoenix Park: This area is designed for neurodivergent runners and those with sensory sensitivities. It features a signal to alert runners as they approach.
- Sensory-Friendly Space: In partnership with AsIAm, we provide a dedicated area in Phoenix Park for individuals with sensory processing differences.
- Expert Guidance: We are working with the team from Empower Abilities—experts in neurodivergence and inclusive participation—to ensure that every aspect of our race experience is as positive, respectful, and accommodating as possible for neurodivergent runners, as well as taking on board valuable feedback from our participants.
Community Inclusion Programme
Each year, we allocate several marathon entries to individuals and organisations that positively impact their communities. This programme helps those who lack opportunities to participate.
Recent partners include:
- Sanctuary Runners: A solidarity-through-sport initiative bringing together asylum seekers, refugees, migrants, and Irish residents through walking, jogging, and running.
- Dublin City Council: Collaborating with the Sports and Wellbeing Partnership, providing access to individuals in underrepresented communities.
Zero-Tolerance for Harassment
The safety and dignity of every participant, volunteer, and staff member is paramount. Our final runner instructions include a clear and enforced zero-tolerance policy for harassment.
A Continuous Commitment Inclusion is not a one-time action but an ongoing process. We constantly review our practices and listen to feedback to make our races more accessible, welcoming, and fair for all. Whether it’s through new policies, improved facilities, or community outreach, we’re committed to running forward together.