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Larne 10 Mile Race returns with major new sponsor for 2026 Saint-Gobain Exterior Solutions

  • Writer: Love Ballymena
    Love Ballymena
  • 4 hours ago
  • 3 min read
On Your Marks…launching the 2026 Larne AC 10 Mile Race is Kathryn Douglas of headline sponsor Saint-Gobain Exterior Solutions alongside Larne AC Co-Chairs Paul Tilson and Diane Hawthorne, and Larne AC athlete Jordan Heron.

On Your Marks… launching the 2026 Larne AC 10 Mile Race is Kathryn Douglas of headline sponsor Saint-Gobain Exterior Solutions alongside Larne AC Co-Chairs Paul Tilson and Diane Hawthorne, and Larne AC athlete Jordan Heron.


The much-loved Larne 10 Mile Race is set to make a powerful return this spring, with a new sponsor and growing momentum cementing its place as one of Northern Ireland’s standout road running events.


Organised by Larne Athletic Club, the race will take place on Saturday 11 April 2026 along the scenic County Antrim coastline, drawing runners from across the region and beyond for what promises to be another high-energy day.



New chapter as sponsorship continues


The 2026 race will be sponsored by Saint-Gobain Exterior Solutions, following its recent acquisition of Kilwaughter Minerals — a long-time supporter of the event.


Caroline Rowley, Business Development Director at Saint-Gobain Exterior Solutions, said:


“Saint-Gobain Exterior Solutions is delighted to sponsor the Larne 10 Mile Race in 2026, building on the strong foundations established through Kilwaughter Minerals’ support of the event over the past four years.



“As a company rooted in the local area, Saint-Gobain Exterior Solutions looks for meaningful ways to invest back into the community. This event provides a great platform for doing that, from promoting health and wellbeing to bringing people together and showcasing Larne at its very best.


“We look forward to welcoming runners, supporters and visitors to what promises to be another memorable day at the Larne 10 Mile Race this Spring.”


A race growing in popularity


With more than 700 runners taking part in last year’s event, the Larne 10 Mile Race has quickly become a firm favourite on the local running calendar.



Blending a welcoming atmosphere for beginners with a fast, competitive route for seasoned athletes, the race continues to attract a broad mix of participants.


Larne Athletic Club Co-Chair Paul Tilson said:


“We are once again delighted to welcome our headline sponsor back for the Larne 10 Mile Race in 2026.


“The company’s continued support is testament to its commitment to the local community and appetite for championing events such as ours that combine health and wellbeing with social cohesion.


“We have had a successful partnership in recent years, raising the race profile together, and it is a joy to continue that moving forward.”




Co-Chair Diane Hawthorne added:


“Since its inception, the Larne 10 Mile Race has grown into an extremely popular event that attracts runners of all levels, and we’re excited to build on this momentum to deliver another great race day this year with Saint-Gobain Exterior Solutions.”


Strong competition expected


The 2025 race saw impressive performances at the front of the field, with Candour Track Club runner Peter Donnelly claiming the men’s title in 53 minutes and 56 seconds.


Gladys Ganiel of North Belfast Harriers secured the women’s title in a time of 1:01:08, setting a strong benchmark ahead of this year’s event.



Registrations now open


Open to participants aged 17 and over, organisers are encouraging early registration to avoid disappointment as demand continues to grow year on year.


With its combination of coastal scenery, community spirit and competitive edge, the Larne 10 Mile Race is once again inviting runners to be “part of the tradition” in 2026.


Registrations are now open at: www.larneathleticclub.com



At a glance


  • Larne 10 Mile Race returns on Saturday 11 April 2026


  • Event sponsored by Saint-Gobain Exterior Solutions following Kilwaughter Minerals acquisition


  • More than 700 runners took part in the 2025 race


  • Open to participants aged 17 and over


  • Race takes place along the County Antrim coastline


  • Peter Donnelly won the 2025 men’s race (53:56)


  • Gladys Ganiel won the 2025 women’s race (1:01:08)


  • Event continues to grow in popularity across Northern Ireland


  • Focus on health, wellbeing and community engagement


  • Early registration encouraged due to high demand



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