Join the Belfast City Marathon Volunteer Race Crew
See the streets of Belfast come alive and experience the incredible atmosphere over Race Weekend! The events simply could not happen without the support of our incredible volunteers.
We are on the lookout for enthusiastic and dedicated volunteers to help us deliver a brilliant experience for our Marathon & Team Relay, Half Marathon, Women's 10k and Festive 5k Fun Run. By volunteering, you will play your part in helping participants achieve their goal and raise vital funds for charity.
Being a volunteer is incredibly rewarding — the difference you make to the event and local community is priceless.
Sign Up Now to Volunteer in 2026
Volunteer Benefits
Volunteers will have the satisfaction of knowing they are making an invaluable contribution to the largest mass sport participation event in Northern Ireland, and helping raise much-needed funds for charities. All volunteers will have the opportunity to:
- Meet like-minded people
- Learn new skills
- Gain valuable experience
- Give back to your community
- Boost your CV
- Be part of a fun-filled day and a special experience
- Soak up the amazing buzz and electric atmosphere
Volunteer Roles
There are a variety of exciting roles available — volunteers can select their preference when registering, and the Event Management Team will do their best to allocate you to that role.
| Roles | Responsibilities |
|---|---|
| Expo and Pack Collection | Assist in the distribution of all important race packs |
| Route Marshal | Help direct participants around the route, ensuring their safety while giving plenty of support and encouragement |
| Water and Nutrition Station Team | Boost participants with much-needed fuel |
| Start Area Support Team | Assist with start area setup, bag drop facility, and cheering participants off the start line |
| Finish Area Support Team | Assisting with bag drop facility and/or distribution of medals and water |
| Relay Support | Assist in the distribution of medals and water to relay runners finishing their legs |
| Transport Support | Assist participants with the shuttle bus system |
Volunteer Training
Each member of the Volunteer Race Crew will receive full (compulsory) training by the Event Management Team, Health and Safety Manager, and Medical Officer ahead of Race Day. Volunteers will also receive a digital handbook. Volunteers will only have to attend one training session. Expo-only volunteers will receive training on-site and do not need to attend a training session.
| Date | Location | Time |
|---|---|---|
| TBC | TBC | TBC |
| TBC | TBC | TBC |
Volunteer Testimonials
Volunteering at the Belfast Marathon has brought me so much joy over the years, whether you're handing out water or marshalling out on the course, there's an incredible buzz that comes from being part of something so positive. Watching thousands of runners push themselves and knowing you're helping them along the way, it's honestly one of the most satisfying things I've ever done - you finish the day tired but absolutely buzzing.
I always come away feeling proud, uplifted, and genuinely happy. I'd encourage anyone to give volunteering a go - it's truly rewarding experience that stays with you long after race day.
Name: Maurice Jeffers Age: 54 From: Carrickfergus
This year we volunteered as 3 groups, with incredible energy and commitment from early morning until evening, working across route marshalling, the finish area, and the energy station, where we experienced a wide range of tasks. We managed bags and arranged medals whilst celebrating participants' achievements, supported at energy stations and helped runners capture their proud moments with photos.
Above all, we were privileged to be part of an amazing event, supporting thousands of participants and share in their moments of triumph.
Name: Sumathy Thulasiraman Age: 44 From: Belfast
As a volunteer for a number of years with the Belfast Marathon, it's the most amazing experience to see it grow over the years from locals to people from all over the world, wanting to raise funds for charities.
Amazing, just amazing!
Thank you for letting me be a part of society and literally have the best laughs.
Name: Christine McCarron Age: 47 From: Newtownabbey
I've run many marathons and always appreciated the efforts of volunteers, so it was fun to be on the other side for the Belfast City Marathon. I handed out race packs at the Expo, and served as a route marshal at Mile 9.
All volunteers share a great team spirit and it makes for a very satisfying weekend!
Name: Glenn Weinstein Age: 57 From: Belfast
I’ve volunteered for the Belfast City Marathon for over 10 years and the Half Marathon since 2013. The atmosphere is electric — it feels great to give back and support athletes in achieving their goals. Without volunteers, neither event could happen, so sign up and be part of the crew!
Name: Karolyn Gaston Age: 50 From: Newtownabbey
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