What started as an idea spotted on TikTok has grown into one of Drogheda’s most welcoming fitness communities.
Cuppa Cardio, founded by Conor Sweeney in February 2024, is a social run club that blends exercise with connection – and always finishes with a well-earned cuppa. The club meets twice a week for relaxed, social-paced runs, usually between 3km and 7km.
Each meet-up offers two route options to suit different levels, and there’s one golden rule: nobody runs alone. After the jog, the group gathers over coffee for chats, laughs and, sometimes, plans for their next night out or race.
“It’s not about pace or performance,” Conor explains. “It’s about enjoying the experience together. Running can feel like a solo sport, but when you do it as a group it becomes something much bigger.”
From Idea to Movement
Conor, a long-time runner who swapped Gaelic and rugby for marathons and Hyrox training, first dreamed up the idea after seeing similar clubs thrive in the UK. What started as a few friends preparing for a half marathon soon turned into a proper run club open to everyone.
Since then, the group has grown steadily, with between 5 and 20 people showing up for each session. Members range from casual runners and first-timers to seasoned athletes. Some even join to walk while recovering from injury.
“The vibe is always chilled and supportive,” says Conor. “We’ve seen people run their first 5k, 10k, even their first half marathon with us. Others have found best friends just by showing up.”
Rotating Routes, Local Support
Midweek runs set off from local pubs like Barlow’s Railway Tavern, Mother Hughes and the Black Bull, while weekend sessions rotate around Drogheda’s coffee shops.
The aim is to keep routes varied and to spread business to local cafés.
More Than a Run
Beyond weekly jogs, Cuppa Cardio members sign up for races together, host fundraisers and take on challenges. In March 2025, three members even ran the Barcelona Marathon.
In August, they organised the “More Than a Run” fundraiser in aid of Pieta House, and plans are already underway for festive events like the “12km of Christmas.”
A Free and Friendly Welcome
Cuppa Cardio is completely free to join – no sign-up required. Newcomers can simply turn up, or message the group on Instagram for details.
And yes, there really is always a cuppa at the finish line. “That’s the idea,” Conor says. “Cardio first, then coffee. It’s simple, but it works.”
For updates and run schedules, follow @cuppacardio on Instagram, where you’ll also find a link to their WhatsApp group.
Their next run takes place Wednesday, September 24th at 7pm from Mother Hughes, with a special collaboration with an Irish clothing brand on Saturday, September 27th.
