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NI Running Show launched: Northern Ireland’s first running expo coming February 2026

  • Writer: Love Ballymena
    Love Ballymena
  • Oct 5
  • 2 min read
Athletics NI, Development Manager, Declan Leung Oonagh Cattigan, Founder, NI Running Show, Lady Mary Peters, and Parkrun Ireland Country Manager. Matt Shields.

Athletics NI, Development Manager, Declan Leung

Oonagh Cattigan, Founder, NI Running Show, Lady Mary Peters, and Parkrun Ireland Country Manager. Matt Shields.



NI Running Show recently hosted its launch event — attended by local running clubs, media, and sports leaders — organisers unveiled their vision to create a vibrant, inclusive space for runners of every background.


A number of major brands are already on board, including Decathlon, Shokz, Scimitar, and Pure Running, with more top partners to be announced in the coming weeks.



Founder and event organiser Oonagh Cattigan described the expo as “the ideal home show for runners.” She added:


“Expect to shop, discover new products and techniques, connect with running groups and events and learn from our expert coaches and speakers.”


Highlights of the NI Running Show


Visitors to the 2026 show can look forward to a range of interactive and educational experiences, including:


  • Leading exhibitors showcasing footwear, nutrition, and running gear

  • Gait analysis and tailored training advice

  • The Decathlon-sponsored kids’ zone and an ice bath challenge

  • Expert-led talks on nutrition, injury prevention, and performance

  • Club and community networking opportunities



Lady Mary Peters endorses the event


Athletics NI, Development Manager, Declan Leung Oonagh Cattigan, Founder, NI Running Show, Lady Mary Peters, and Parkrun Ireland Country Manager. Matt Shields.

Athletics NI, Development Manager, Declan Leung

Oonagh Cattigan, Founder, NI Running Show, Lady Mary Peters, and Parkrun Ireland Country Manager. Matt Shields.



Among those welcoming the new initiative was Lady Mary Peters, who shared her enthusiasm at the launch:


“I admire those who go out running, especially on a day like today. As a trustee of the London Marathon for 15 years, I saw first-hand how events like this bring people together from all over the world.


“From Couch to 5k beginners to seasoned athletes, people of all standards and with all the joy-of-running are out there, and that’s why the NI Running Show will be such a popular and important event.



“At the Mary Peters Trust, now in our 50th year, we’ve supported over 5,000 athletes across all sports, and it’s wonderful to see running celebrated in this way here in Northern Ireland.”


Inspiring, educating and connecting runners


Northern Ireland’s running scene has grown rapidly in recent years, with thousands taking part in parkruns, road races, and trail events every week. Yet until now, there has been no single event to unite this diverse community.


The NI Running Show aims to change that — offering an inclusive, educational, and inspirational platform for all who share a passion for running.



Tickets and registration details are available at www.nirunningshow.com/tickets.


Event details



About NI Running Show


The NI Running Show is Northern Ireland’s first-ever dedicated running expo. Founded by Oonagh Cattigan, the event is designed to inspire, educate, and connect runners at every stage of their journey, while showcasing the best in running innovation, gear, coaching, and community engagement.



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