Triathlon Ireland, Triathlon Cymru and Triathlon Scotland are going head-to-head in the ultimate showdown – the Celtic Cup 2026 held on 28th June in the seaside town of Llandudno, Wales.
Triathlon Ireland is inviting Age-Group athletes to express their interest in representing Tri-Team Ireland at the 2026 Celtic Challenge – an exciting international competition bringing together Age Group athletes across the island of Ireland, Wales and Scotland.
The Celtic Challenge is a unique nation-versus-nation event, giving Age-Group athletes the opportunity to race in a team environment and wear either your age group Tri-Team Ireland or your club kit.
This initiative forms part of a longer term ambition to strengthen collaboration between the federations – with the potential to host the event in Ireland in future years.
More event information can be found HERE.
The Celtic Cup offers:
This event is intended to become an annual fixture, providing ongoing opportunities for athletes to represent their nation and develop within a team environment.
Expression of Interest open from today, Friday 20th February until Friday 20th March 2026.
There are two places available per age-group (Open and Female).
Selection will be based on final positions in the 2025 Irish Age Group Rankings, ensuring that selection reflects performance across the full season rather than a single race.
Selection review will take place week commencing 23rd March 2026.
Team confirmation will happen by 30th March 2026. Athletes will then enter the race directly with the event organiser.
Celtic Cup race registration deadline is 14th June 2026.
A €10 administration fee will apply at the application stage.
Key dates at a glance
Athletes will travel independently
Race entry fees: €122 / £105.99 (A direct entry code will be supplied to selected athletes)
Triathlon Ireland membership must be valid for the event
A team hotel option will be explored to support athletes who wish to stay together and build team spirit.
Subject to final confirmation with Triathlon Cymru, further information will follow including:
Athletes wishing to be considered must complete the ‘Expression of Interest’ via their Triathlon Ireland account under: ‘Age-Group Selection Application’ and select the Celtic Cup event.
