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 water station at the BCM is the best day out, helping to motivate and cheer the amazing runners on at the same time is so much fun. It’s also an opportunity to cheer, clap, and jump around like crazy!
There’s such a sense of togetherness — it’s something you cannot describe until you’ve been part of it.
Name: Carol McAdam Age: 46 From: Belfast
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I volunteered at both the Expo and Race Day — it was a very rewarding experience. My eyes were opened to just how important volunteers are for this great event to run. I’d recommend the experience to anyone!
Name: Daniel Catterson Age: 26 From: Maghera
Having volunteered for the Belfast City Half Marathon at both the Expo and the start/finish area, I would recommend it to anyone. Two brilliant days meeting lovely people and seeing all the happy faces cross the finish line. I look forward to volunteering again!
Name: Caroline Johnston Age: 54 From: Ballyclare
I volunteered with the Belfast City Marathon for the first time in 2022 after working with the team for a few months. Seeing all the behind-the-scenes work come together was incredible! I’ll be back volunteering for years to come — the Marathon Team makes it so enjoyable.
Name: Kristen Haire Age: 24 From: Belfast
I volunteered all day Friday for the Marathon Expo with my fellow Mallusk Harriers members. It was fantastic giving out race packs and seeing so many familiar faces. I love volunteering and giving something back to the running community that’s given me so many memorable days.
Name: Martin McCready Age: 53 From: Newtownabbey
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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