Results of the 5k parkruns in Cork - Sat 31st May 2025

Results of the 5k parkruns around the county on Saturday 31st May 2025. Approximately 1,124  runners and walkers took part in the 11 events in Co Cork.

If I missed anyone who passed a notable milestone like 100, 200, 250 or above parkruns then let me know.

***

Ballincollig Regional Park: 265 this week, 302 last week.

First 3 men & women...

1 Liam RYAN Male VM45-49 17:41

2 Alan O'BRIEN Male VM45-49 Eagle A.C. 18:04

3 James CALLANAN Male VM55-59 19:33

7 Niamh CRONIN Female VW45-49 St Finbarrs AC 20:06

13 Nollaigh O'NEILL Female VW50-54 21:34

17 Clodagh CREEDON Female VW45-49 St Finbarrs AC 21:59

Ballincollig results... https://www.parkrun.ie/ballincollig/results/377/

Tramore Valley Park: 224 this week, 232 last week.

First 3 men & women...

1 Marcus BISHOP Male SM30-34 17:17

2 John COAKLEY Male JM15-17 17:21

3 Rory O' SULLIVAN Male VM45-49 St Finbarrs AC 17:44

4 Michelle KENNY Female VW45-49 Leevale AC 18:08

7 Heather DUNLEA Female SW25-29 19:28

9 Katalin SZABO Female VW45-49 Chorlton Runners 20:22

Tramore Valley Park results... https://www.parkrun.ie/tramorevalley/results/155/

Glen River: 59 this week, 61 last week.

First 3 men & women...

1 Richard HOBSON Male VM35-39 St Finbarrs AC 19:23

2 Diarmuid DEASY Male SM20-24 20:25

3 Edward BARRY Male VM40-44 21:07

9 Mags HASSETT Female VW50-54 St Finbarrs AC 23:41

19 Ciara YOUNG Female SW30-34 26:05

20 Catherine DEENIHAN Female VW55-59 UCC Staff Athletics Club 26:08 

Glen River results...  https://www.parkrun.ie/glenriver/results/261/

Midleton Greenway: 136 this week, 153 last week.

First 3 men & women...

1 Keith KELLY Male VM45-49 17:06

2 Sean O BRIEN Male VM40-44 St Finbarrs AC 17:48

3 Daniel ROSS Male SM30-34 18:00

5 Lorraine MANNING Female VW45-49 18:59

32 Edel MULLAN Female VW40-44 Clongriffin Runners 23:16

43 Fiona ODONNELL FLEMING Female VW45-49 26:11

Midleton Greenway... https://www.parkrun.ie/midletongreenway/results/18/

Mallow Castle: 87 this week, 46 last week.

First 3 men & women...

1 Anthony MANNIX Male VM35-39 Cork Track Club 17:09

2 Simon BERNARD Male VM40-44 Wimbledon Windmilers 17:30

3 James MAHER Male SM30-34 18:04

12 Deirdre DUFF Female VW35-39 22:55

21 Mariann O'FLYNN Female VW40-44 25:38

23 Maria O REILLY Female VW35-39 25:51

Mallow results...  https://www.parkrun.ie/mallowcastle/results/183/

Youghal (Pobalscoil ne Tríonóide) : 60 this week, 39 last week.

First 3 men & women...

1 Robert RIORDAN Male SM18-19 18:34

2 James COADE Male VM35-39 19:45

3 Adam BULMAN Male SM25-29 19:45

6 Shannon SOTOK Female SW30-34 21:33

10 Éadaoin COLEMAN Female VW40-44 22:30

17 Saoirse CORRIGAN Female SW18-19 24:14

Youghal results... https://www.parkrun.ie/pobalscoilnatrionoide/results/161/

Macroom Castle Demense: 44 this week, 45 last week.

First 3 men & women...

1 Unknown   

2 Rory MCELROY Male JM15-17 West Muskerry A.C. 20:34

3 Conor LUCEY Male VM40-44 20:43

18 Danielle SEXTON Female JW11-14 West Muskerry A.C. 26:05

22 Mairead MURPHY Female VW45-49 West Muskerry A.C. 27:41

23 Kay RING Female VW45-49 28:04

Macroom results... https://www.parkrun.ie/macroomcastledemesne/results/529/

Clonakilty: 55 this week, 35 last week.

First 3 men & women...

1 Emer PERKINS Female SW25-29 19:33

11 Jenny QUINN Female SW25-29 22:40

16 Sandra WALSH Female VW55-59 23:46

2 Anthony RYAN Male VM40-44 19:51

3 Edward AHERN Male SM25-29 20:34

4 Bryan GALLWEY Male VM40-44 20:43

Clonakilty results... https://www.parkrun.ie/clonakilty/results/483/

Glengarriff Woods: 107 this week, 81 last week.

Top 3 men & women...

1 David BARRY Male VM50-54 18:45

2 Darragh COPPINGER Male JM15-17 20:20

3 Finn CONNER Male JM15-17 20:21

5 Hester HILL Female SW25-29 Vegan Runners 20:49

17 Alice COPPINGER Female VW45-49 Bantry Athletic Club 24:27

20 Breda MCELHINNEY Female VW55-59 25:09

Glengarriff results... https://www.parkrun.ie/glengarriff/results/402/

Bere Island: 60 this week, 29 last week. 

First 3 men & women...

1 Jp TREACY Male VM40-44 St Finbarrs AC 19:47

2 Matt MORHAN Male VM45-49 20:22

3 Unknown  

5 Breeda O SULLIVAN Female VW55-59 Beara AC 23:52

11 Emily COOPER Female SW25-29 EBORIENTEERS 25:47

12 Leahanne SULLIVAN Female SW25-29 27:07

Bere Island results... https://www.parkrun.ie/bereisland/results/494/

Castlehaven (Rineen Woods): 27 finishers this week, 28 last week.

First 3 men & women...

1 Patrick O'DRISCOLL Male VM35-39 19:06

2 Brendan CROWLEY Male VM40-44 22:18

3 Niall O'CONNOR Male VM50-54 West Cork Triathlon Club (WCTC) 22:54

8 Caitlin MAGUIRE Female SW25-29 25:29

10 Helen CRIDLAND Female SW25-29 27:02

11 Kate CROWLEY Female VW35-39 27:11

Castlehaven results... https://www.parkrun.ie/castlehaven/results/414/

For more information about the weekly 5k parkruns in Co Cork, go to this page HERE.

Guest Post: Cork City Marathon 2025 ...by Pat Walsh

 * Cork City Marathon 2025 *

Where has the last year gone? and we are now back to another Marathon weekend here in Cork. Last year was an excellent event and this year promises to be just as good if not better.

Cork has sold out all 3 events, Full, Half and 10K and this is a fantastic outcome for the organisers. In fairness, as I mentioned recently, numbers for running events are climbing again. Limerick on May Bank Holiday had record numbers as well. 

Us runners love a good day out with a big crowd. Throw in a t-shirt and a medal and we are smitten. The work that goes on behind the scenes to get to this level of organisation is phenomenal and thanks must go to all those who get involved.

Thanks also to the band of Volunteers in the days leading up to it and especially on the day of the event for stewarding, minding, coaxing and providing us with water stops. 

It is fantastic to take over a city and get a chance to run the streets traffic free. Throw in the good humour and fun of the Cork people and it really makes for a special day out whatever side of the ropes your are on. The crack on Patrick Street at the finish is special. 

Again, I’m encouraging participation and supporting at all these events as it is so good to be involved with loads of people out exercising and trying to help the quality of their lives. Many a spectator returned the following year as a participant.

There are no winners and losers in a day like this. Everyone is a hero to be applauded. Weather looks to be kind for a change. We are used to either heatwave or rain deluge so a milder windy day is to be welcomed. 

Don’t go mad and enjoy the event. As you approach the finish line on Patrick St., allow yourself a smile, a wave and maybe a fist pump. Take the applause and act like you were born for this day.

G’wan the Bull, ‘tis your field…. J.BKeane

I’m was helping at Marathon Expo on Friday 30th and will be walking the 10k on Sunday as part of ongoing recovery. If you see me, say hello. Whatever you are doing this weekend get out there and have some fun, meet and greet other people and get involved. You won’t regret it.

Have a great weekend wherever you are and enjoy whatever you are doing.

#pwr #dowtchaboy

Cork runner Michael Minehane to run from Malin to Mizen in 15 days for charity - Fri 16th to Fri 30th May 2025

Fundraiser for LauraLynn: Malin to Mizen – 15 Marathons in 15 Days

On 16 May 2025, Michael Minehane from Kealkill, Co. Cork will start at Malin Head in Donegal and complete 15 marathons over the following 15 days, finishing on 30 May 2025 at Mizen Head in Co Cork. 

Update...

Fri 30th May: Michael completes his 15th marathon in as many days and finishes at Mizen Head.

Thurs 29th May: Michael starts in Ballineen and runs over the Cousane Gap to Kealkill and Bantry.

Wed 28th May: Michael starts in Cork City, runs to Bandon and finishes in Ballineen.

Tues 27th May: Michael starts  at Newtwopothouse near Mallow and finishes in Cork City.

Mon 26th May: Michael starts near Croom in Co Limerick and finishes near Newtwopothouse in Co Cork.

Donations... https://www.idonate.ie/fundraiser/2025Malin2MIzen1

This event is a fundraiser for LauraLynn which is the only Children’s hospice in Ireland, provides care and support to children with life limiting conditions and their families. 670 Families were supported by LauraLynn in 2024.

Prize winners in the West Cork Jesters Rugby Peer to Pier 5k - Sun 25th May 2025

First place finish for Anna O'Neill

This small charity 5k run/walk was held in Rosscarbery on Sunday 25th May 2025.

Prize winners...

Women 1st Anna O’Neill. 2nd Maeve O’Mahony. 3rd Hilary Walsh. 
U-18 Girls 1st Elaine O’Sullivan. 
Girls U-12. 1st. Clodagh Duggan. 2nd Eabha Duggan. 3rd. Emily O’Sullivan. 
Men 1st Mark Bryan. 2nd Brian Murnane. 3rd Gerard Hourihane. 
U-18 Boys 1st Seamus O’Sullivan. 
Boys U-12 1st Gabriel Middea. 2nd. Ben Ahern. 3rd Theo Ahern.
Jesters; 1st Eddie & Jessie Nicholson. 2nd. Patrick Santry. 3rd Niall Collins. 4th Geraldine Middea.
Family event. 1st Jerry Keohane. 2nd Walsh’s. 3rd Ian O’Driscoll. 

BHAA numbers - A matter of perspective

Some of you may not be aware that there are two versions of the BHAA i.e. the Business Houses Athletic Association. 

The Cork BHAA hold some of the most popular road races in Cork with the evening races getting anywhere from 300 to 1200 finishers. There is also another version in Dublin known just as the 'BHAA' and they hold their own series of races.

Last Tuesday, they had the BHAA Irish Life 5 mile race in Dunboyne, Co Meath. They said that this was a 'record 220 runners'. 

If a Cork BHAA evening race got 220 runners, we'd be wondering what went wrong, why were the numbers so low?

It really is a matter of perspective. A record number for the Dublin BHAA may look poor to us here in Cork but maybe the numbers here in Cork are exceptionally high?

HSE podcast about parkrun - Fitness, Fun & Friendship

The HSE recently released a podcast in which Eamon Keogh talks to Jenny Branigan of parkrun Ireland and Katie Dillon Keane, HSE Health Promotion Officer about the benefits of parkrun.

"In this episode of the HSE Talking Health and Wellbeing Podcast, we talk about parkrun, a free, volunteer-led, 5k and 2k events that take place in open spaces every weekend around Ireland. This HSE supported initiative encourages people of all ages to come together to run, walk and talk.

We talk about the origins of parkrun and how it has gone from strength to strength, with over 14,000 participants weekly and over 10% of the population registered, it is a community initiative which is open to all ages.

Jenny Branigan, parkrun, Territory Manager, Republic of Ireland, talks about the parkrun experience, how it is volunteer-led and that everyone is made to feel welcome. She stresses that parkrun is a free, fun event to be enjoyed by people of all ages and at their own pace. She also acknowledges the supportive role the HSE has played over many years through funding and also through the many volunteers who give up their time to organise events across the country. Katie Dillon Keane, HSE Health Promotion Officer, talks to us about the benefits and importance of physical activity and also shares her thoughts and experiences of being a volunteer with parkrun."

Weather forecast for the 2025 Cork City Marathon

 As we get closer to Sunday the 1st  of June, we can get a better idea of what the weather might be like.

At the end of this week, there is an area of low pressure nearby so the weather is changing a lot with weather fronts passing through. On race day, the weather is likely to be broken clouds with some sunshine with a reasonably strong westerly breeze.

As the day goes on, the cloud cover will increase and there is a chance of some showers.

For an event at the start of June, the forecast is about as good as it gets for a running event. The chance of rain is low and the temperature will be in the mid teens as opposed to 20 deg C plus.

For marathon runners, the wind will be into their face as they head west from Mahon to Bishopstown. The wind will be behind all runners for the end of the full, half and 10k.

As we're still a few days out, things may well change a bit but it's looking pretty good for now.

Results of the Sheeps Head Challenge 10-mile - Sat 24th May 2025

The annual Sheeps Head Challenge 10-mile was held this year on Sat 24th of May 2025 and there were 59 runners in the event.

Results of the Rathpeacon National School 5k - Sun 25th May 2025

This was a new 5k road race on the calendar and got 145 finishers with pretty much an even split between runners and walkers.

Top 3 men & women...

1 Mark WALSH 15:51 
2 Barry TWOHIG 15:56 
3 James HAYES 15:58
1 Martina KIELY 17:56
2 Sonia O'LEARY 18:05
3 Michelle KENNY 18:52

Full results HERE

Notice: Run with Ray 5k - 16th to 20th June 2025

Ray Darcy of RTE will be doing a series of 5k runs this year in June and the Cork event is at Tramore Valley Park on Monday 16th of June at 5:30pm.

The entry fee is €5 and entry includes a t shirt that can be collected on the evening of each 5k event.

Number and t-shirt collection from 4.15pm to 5:15pm

Start time 5:30pm

Mon 16 Jun 2025 17:30, Run with Ray Cork (Tramore Valley Park)
Tues 17 Jun 2025 17:30, Run with Ray SETU Waterford,
Wed 18 Jun 2025 17:30, Run with Ray Kilkenny
Thurs 19 Jun 2025 17:30, Run with Ray Meath (Oldbridge House)
Fri 20 Jun 2025 17:30, Run with Ray Dublin (Malahide Castle)

Full event info... https://www.runwithray.ie/ 

Results of the Buttevant 4-mile road race - Sun 25th May 2025

Top 3 men & women...
 189 1 Declan MOORE Bilboa A.C. M 19:53  
200 2 Tadhg O SULLIVAN Bweeng Trail Blazers A.C. M 21:17  
2320 3 James DORAN Killarney Valley A.C. M40 21:23  
246 13 Aoife COOKE Eagle A.C. F 23:46  
243 22 Breeda MCGINN F40 24:58  
234 32 Clotilde FITZGIBBON Grange/Fermoy A.C. F50 26:22

Full results HERE

Results of the 5k parkruns in Cork - Sat 24th May 2025

Results of the 5k parkruns around the county on Saturday 24th May 2025. Approximately 1,051  runners and walkers took part in the 11 events in Co Cork.

Report... In contrast to the sunshine of the last few weeks, it was overcast for the 5k parkruns in Co Cork this week.

Macroom... Well done to Padraig Sheahan who completed his 200th 5k parkrun!

Ballincollig... Well done to Tobi Grab who earned his 100th volunteer credit this weekend!

Well done to Donal Hannigan who completed his 100th 5k parkrun at the Ballincollig event!

100 parkruns for Donal Hannigan

Castlehaven... Olympic Silver medallist and former world champion Sonia O'Sullivan was a visitor to the Castlehaven 5k parkrun this weekend.

Glen River... Well done to Catherine Deenihan who ran her 100th 5k parkrun this weekend. 98 of the 100 have been at the Glen River event.

A century of parkruns for Catherine Deenihan

ONGOING

If I missed anyone who passed a notable milestone like 100, 200, 250 or above parkruns then let me know.

***

Ballincollig Regional Park: 302 this week, 311 last week.

First 3 men & women...

1 Rory O' SULLIVAN Male VM45-49 St Finbarrs AC 18:00

2 Jj JORDAAN Male SM30-34 Togher AC 18:28

3 Tobi GRAB Male VM45-49 Leevale AC 18:33

23 Nollaigh O'NEILL Female VW50-54 22:03

29 Siobhan HOLLAND Female VW45-49 Eagle A.C. 22:31

46 Sarah BLOWER Female SW30-34 23:50

Ballincollig results... https://www.parkrun.ie/ballincollig/results/376/

Tramore Valley Park: 232 this week, 189 last week.

First 3 men & women...

1 Sean O BRIEN Male VM40-44 St Finbarrs AC 17:56

2 Paul COTTER Male VM50-54 Eagle A.C. 18:08

3 Rob BAGNALL Male SM30-34 18:40

19 Jacqueline HUGHES Female SW30-34 Musselburgh & District AC 21:08

22 Elaine CARDIFF Female VW35-39 21:34

30 Ruth FORBES Female VW45-49 Carrigaline A.C 22:08

Tramore Valley Park results... https://www.parkrun.ie/tramorevalley/results/154/

Glen River: 61 this week, 60 last week.

First 3 men & women...

1 Colin MORRISON Male VM50-54 19:30

2 Cian MCPARLAND Male VM45-49 St Finbarrs AC 19:35

3 Diarmuid DEASY Male SM20-24 21:01

10 Mags HASSETT Female VW50-54 St Finbarrs AC 23:33

13 Rachel Catherine GYTE Female SW30-34 Chorlton Runners 24:51

17 Saoirse CORRIGAN Female SW18-19 25:28

Glen River results...  https://www.parkrun.ie/glenriver/results/260/

Midleton Greenway: 153 this week, 148 last week.

First 3 men & women...

1 Brendan MAGUIRE Male VM45-49 18:26

2 Kevin SMITH Male VM45-49 Midleton AC 18:39

3 Seán RUSSELL Male SM25-29 St Finbarrs AC 19:07

13 Pamela BARRY Female VW45-49 Aghada Running Club 21:40

22 Nicola COMER Female VW35-39 23:03

39 Maura FITZGERALD Female VW35-39 24:24

Midleton Greenway... https://www.parkrun.ie/midletongreenway/results/17/

Mallow Castle: 46 this week, 69 last week.

First 3 men & women...

1 Michael MALLEY Male VM35-39 18:45

2 Matthew COOKE Male JM15-17 18:51

3 David BROPHY Male VM60-64 Mallow AC 21:07

12 Marie MONAGHAN Female VW35-39 23:27

13 Aoife O FLYNN Female VW35-39 24:00

18 Louise FOY Female SW30-34 25:40

Mallow results...  https://www.parkrun.ie/mallowcastle/results/182/

Youghal (Pobalscoil ne Tríonóide) : 39 this week, 38 last week.

First 3 men & women...

1 Shannon SOTOK Female SW30-34 20:54

7 Claire MURPHY Female VW50-54 24:24

9 Aoife BARRY Female JW11-14 25:19

2 Adam BULMAN Male SM25-29 21:08

3 Ciaran MITCHELL Male VM35-39 21:15

4 Ger FOX Male VM50-54 21:52

Youghal results... https://www.parkrun.ie/pobalscoilnatrionoide/results/160/

Macroom Castle Demense: 45 this week, 51 last week.

First 3 men & women...

1 Conrad WATT Male VM35-39 Cork Track Club 17:48

2 Conor LUCEY Male VM40-44 20:22

3 David BRADLEY Male JM11-14 21:05

14 Margaret LUCEY Female VW45-49 25:48

16 Aisling O'KEEFFE Female SW30-34 26:19

17 Carmel PURCELL Female VW45-49 West Muskerry A.C. 26:25

Macroom results... https://www.parkrun.ie/macroomcastledemesne/results/528/

Clonakilty: 35 this week, 37 last week.

First 3 men & women...

1 Anna O'NEILL Female VW55-59 23:05

2 Maura REGAN Female VW45-49 Eagle A.C. 23:06

5 Sandra WALSH Female VW55-59 23:34

3 Lennart LINDENFELD Male JM15-17 23:24

4 Declan RICE Male VM45-49 23:28

6 Björn SEIFFERT Male SM25-29 24:08

Clonakilty results... https://www.parkrun.ie/clonakilty/results/482/

Glengarriff Woods: 81 this week, 62 last week.

Top 3 men & women...

1 Finn CONNER Male JM15-17 20:55

2 Liam O'CONNOR Male VM45-49 21:18

3 Stephen O'SULLIVAN Male VM55-59 22:05

6 Maria HURLEY Female VW60-64 Bantry Athletic Club 24:17

9 Emily JONES Female SW25-29 24:59

10 Pippa O SULLIVAN Female JW11-14 25:27

Glengarriff results... https://www.parkrun.ie/glengarriff/results/401/

Bere Island: 29 this week, 44 last week. 

First 3 men & women...

1 Cyril MCNAMARA Male VM55-59 21:50

4 Edward BOYLING Male VM50-54 Dartford Road Runners 25:08

5 Edward STEL Male VM55-59 26:01

2 Breeda O SULLIVAN Female VW55-59 Beara AC 23:28

3 Laoise Ann O SULLIVAN Female JW11-14 24:11

6 Megan JOHNSON Female VW40-44 28:45

Bere Island results... https://www.parkrun.ie/bereisland/results/493/

Castlehaven (Rineen Woods): 28 finishers this week, 20 last week.

First 3 men & women...

1 Anthony MANNIX Male VM35-39 Cork Track Club 17:55

2 Patrick O'DRISCOLL Male VM35-39 18:58

3 Adam TAYLOR Male SM30-34 19:04

8 Sonia O'SULLIVAN Female VW55-59 26:38

9 Kathleen O REGAN Female VW40-44 26:39

10 Deirdre DUFF Female VW35-39 27:00

Castlehaven results... https://www.parkrun.ie/castlehaven/results/413/

For more information about the weekly 5k parkruns in Co Cork, go to this page HERE.

Results & Photos of the Ardmore 5-mile road race - Fri 23rd May 2025

Cork runner Aoife Cooke receiving the Noel Faherty Cup after winning the 2025 Ardmore 5-mile road race

Top 3 men & women...

1 FITZGERALD, Evan West Waterford A.C. M Sn 0:24:09
2 FITZGERALD, Pat Waterford A.C. M Sn 0:26:09
3 CONNELL, Aidan West Waterford A.C. M 40 0:26:29
16 COOKE, Aoife Eagle A.C. F 35 0:30:03
18 KENNY, Michelle Leevale A.C. F 45 0:30:31
21 VEALE, Kate West Waterford A.C. F Sn 0:31:04

Photos...

1) West Waterford AC have a selection of finish line photos... Album 1 ... Album 2 ... Album 3 ... Album 4 ... Album 5 ... Album 6 ...

Full results below...

 Round Tower Hotel Ardmore 5 Mile Road Race Friday 23rd May 2025  
1 FITZGERALD, Evan West Waterford A.C. M Sn 0:24:09
2 FITZGERALD, Pat Waterford A.C. M Sn 0:26:09
3 CONNELL, Aidan West Waterford A.C. M 40 0:26:29
4 MURPHY, Noel Waterford A.C. M 40 0:27:01
5 CAVANAGH, Conor Waterford A.C. M Sn 0:27:23
6 DONAGHY, Declan Waterford A.C. M Sn 0:27:38
7 KELLY, Keith Youghal A.C. M 45 0:27:40
8 HENNEBRY, Conor West Waterford A.C. M Sn 0:28:47
9 MULLIGAN, Conor Individual M Sn 0:28:55
10 MC SWEENEY, Seamus Grange Fermoy A.C M 50 0:29:11

Guest Post: Participation ...by Pat Walsh

 * Participation *

Has running participation reached a new peak in Cork? I look at 1206 finishers in the John Buckley BHAA 5k last Tuesday and an average of 1100 people completing a parkrun most weekends at the 11 venues scattered around Cork. The club races are also well supported around the county. Brilliant.

Add to this the number of people who have moved on from running to triathlons, cycling, swimming, adventure racing and we get a huge number of people actively taking part in physical activity on a regular basis.

Thanks must be given to all who organise and volunteer at these events. Also, thanks to people and websites who promote the races and publish results and photos. Again thanks to the photographers who take the time and effort to capture these memories.

The vast majority of those taking part are there for their own reasons and winning a prize is far from their expectations prior to an event. The social and health benefits are enough to draw them to the start line. 

In the afters of a race, is too much emphasis placed on prizewinners and category prizes but not enough on the field and encouraging everyone to keep participating? The gang finishing down the field. The first-timer, the person recovering from injury, the pb that is personal and hard earned but wins nothing.

That is just a personal opinion and no way to detract from the great work going on in Club events, BHAA, Charity events and the universal weekly parkrun movement. Whatever they are doing at the moment is working. WELL DONE.

So the balance is between racing too much with inherent injury problems or not racing at all and end up with lack of motivation. I’m not offering answers only questions for you to ask yourself.

It seems the whole of Ireland is moving in some form or other. 

Are you part of it? If not then get out and join in. You will be made feel welcome. No one will knock on your door and wonder are you coming out to play. You must make the first move. You won’t regret it. There are lots of people out there enjoying themselves.

‘From that day on if I was going somewhere, I was running’ Forrest Gump

Have a lovely weekend

#pwr

Resurfacing of the athletics track at the Mardyke to start in early June

In previous posts, I've covered the ongoing saga of the damage to the athletics tracks at the Mardyke in Cork City...

Mardyke track shut down with immediate effect due to safety concerns - 11th March 2024

The ongoing saga of the Mardyke athletics track - 27th March 2024

UCC issues tender for repair of the Mardyke athletics track - 23rd January 2025

UCC Mardyke have just announced that resurfacing works on the athletics track will commence on the 6th of June 2025.

I presume this will take a good few weeks so perhaps it will be open for September and the shorter evenings?

Results of the Run Killarney Half Marathon & 10k - Sat 17th May 2025

Cork runners dominate the podium at the Run Killarney Half-Marathon (L-R) - Maurice Feehan of Duhallow AC 2nd, Danny Mullins of Bantry AC 1st & Michael Harrington of Durrus AC 3rd

The annual Run Killarney Half-Marathon & 10k was held this year on Saturday 17th May 2025 on what turned out to be a stunning day with blue skies and sunshine.

Between the two events, a total of 2418 runners crossed the finish line, 1207 in the half-marathon and 1211 in the 10k. Both events sold out several months ago.

Half-Marathon - Top 5 men & women...

1 Danny MULLINS 1:12:24 901 M MS Bantry A.C.
2 Maurice FEEHAN 1:16:34 372 M M40 Duhallow A.C.
3 Michael HARRINGTON 1:18:11 507 M M50 Durrus A.C.
4 Robbie MULHALL 1:18:18 897 M MS
5 Eoghan O'DONOVAN 1:18:40 1045 M MS
1 Fliss TOURNANT 1:25:44 1581 F FS Watford Joggers
2 Eilís RYAN 1:27:28 1284 F FS 
3 Carole ROBERTS 1:30:24 1573 F FS Watford Joggers
4 Samantha LAMBERT 1:31:18 677 F FS 
5 Anna CLIFFORD 1:31:31 165 F FS 

10k - Top 5 men & women...

1 Darragh OLEARY 33:17 3135 M MS Thurles Crokes A.C.
2 Michael DULLEA 35:00 2332 M M40 Skibbereen A.C.
3 Feidhlim O'DUBHLAING 35:13 3002 M MS Leevale A.C.
4 Oliver DINNYES 36:01 2292 M MS
5 Sean RUSSELL 36:14 3220 M MS St. Finbarrs A.C.
1 Jennifer MARTIN 37:11 2728 F FS
2 Eimear O'LEARY 38:05 1595 F F40 Galway City Harriers A.C.
3 Siobhan HOARE 38:12 2530 F F40 Togher A.C.
4 Marie HOWARD 38:44 2549 F FS Leevale A.C.
5 Breeda MCGINN 38:48 2769 F F40

Full results HERE

After winning the half-marathon in 2024, Cork runner Jennifer Martin returned this year to take first in the 10k. Eimear O'Leary of Galway City Harriers (L) was 2nd and Siobhan Hoare of Togher AC (R) was 3rd

Photos & video...

1) The chip timing company MyRunResults has a small number of finish line photos HERE

a) Half Marathon video up to 1hr 24 mins

b) Half Marathon video 1hr 35mins to 1hr 48 mins

c) Half Marathon video 1hr 59 - 2hr 12 half (10k up to 42mins)

Notice: Ardmore 5-mile road race - Fri 23rd May 2025

The second race in the 2025 West Waterford AC Summer Series is coming up on Friday 23rd of May with the Ardmore 5-mile road race. 

The race starts at 7:30pm and the pre-entry fee is €10 - LINK or €15 on the night.

Considering the location, it should be of interest to runners in east Cork.

From West Waterford AC... Race number 2 in our series this year takes us to the fast course in the beautiful village of Ardmore. Join us in Ardmore for a great evening's running and thanks to our  sponsor, The Round Tower Hotel we will have prizegiving and refreshments after the race. 

Online entry only again and the fee is €10.  The entry fee on the night will be €15

Number collection is at Ardmore GAA club grounds (by kind permission).

Prizes are as follows:
First 3 Male and Female
1 Junior Male and Female
1st Over 40 45,50,60 Male
1st Over 35, 40,45, 50 Female

28th Annual Round Tower Hotel - Ardmore 5 Miles, Friday 23rd May 2025 @ 7.30pm
1st Male - Veronica Ryan Cup
1st Female - Noel Faherty Cup

The course will remain the same as previous years with the 2 lap circuit.

Results & Photos of the Cork BHAA John Buckley Sports 5k in Cork City - Tues 20th May 2025

Holly Carroll & Denis Hegarty are the winners of the 2025 Cork BHAA John Buckley Sports 5k

There was a record turnout for this years Cork BHAA John Buckley Sports 5k road race with 1206 finishers, up about 18% on last year which was also a record field.

The forecast for the race was for rain but in the end, the rain was confined to the north and south-west of the county with a dry area covering Cork City in between.

Top 5 men & women...

1 Denis HEGARTY (#1081) 00:14:36 ALL (1) Male  (1)
2 Michael HARTY (#1198) 00:14:38 ALL (2) Male  (2)
3 Gavin O'ROURKE (#150) 00:14:44 ALL (3) Male  (3)
4 Niall SHANAHAN (#275) 00:14:46 ALL (4) Male  (4)
5 Paul MOLONEY (#1061) 00:14:51 ALL (5) Male  (5)
1 Holly CARROLL (#170) 00:16:13 ALL (1) 30
2 Hannah STEEDS (#167) 00:16:29 ALL (2) 42
3 Sinead O CONNOR (#357) 00:16:45 ALL (3) 53
4 Sharon RYNNE (#353) 00:17:32 ALL (4) 82
5 Siobhan HOARE (#361) 00:17:39 ALL (5) 89

Chip results HERE

The official results are HERE.

It's interesting to see that back in 2013 to 2019, it looked as if the numbers would always be just under 1000. Now in 2025, they've taken a big jump upwards.

Photos...

1) The Cork BHAA have some photos HERE and HERE ..

2) Graham Meikle has some pre-race photos... Gallery 1 ... Gallery 2 ... Gallery 3 ... Gallery 4

20% Discount...... John Buckley Sports are giving a 20% discount to all finishers in the race. Just hang on to your race number and present it in the shop to avail of the 20% discount. It will apply to any purchases in their shop which is across from the Opera House in the heart of Cork City. 

Note that the discount is not restricted to just one item. When you are using it, you can buy several products at the one time and get 20% off the lot. There is also no expiry date on the race number discount so you can use it anytime.

John Buckley Sports shop is located across the river from the Opera House.

Results & Photos of the Darrara National School 5k & 10k runs - Fri 16th May 2025

This fundraiser for the Darrara National School near Clonakilty was held on Fri 16th May 2025. There were 126 finishers in the 5k run with a further 48 in the 10k.

The organisers have some photos HERE

Results below...

Notice: Cork BHAA John Buckley Sports 5k road race - Tues 20th May 2025

The annual John Buckley Sports 5k road race is one of the most popular races in Cork City and always attracts a large crowd. Organised in conjunction with the Cork BHAA, this race is suitable for all types of runner...from the serious to the more casual runner. The entry fee is only €5 for Cork BHAA registered runners or €10 for non-reg runners.

You can pre-enter this race by going to https://johnbuckleysports.com/

You can also enter on the night but it really helps if you pre-enter so that they can have everything ready. Please note that the race HQ is at the LEE ROWING CLUB near the Pairc Ui Chaoimh stadium.

The John Buckley Sports 5k was the most popular BHAA race in Cork in 2024 as can be seen in this post.

Results of the Grocers 5k & 10k Fun Run at Mallow racecourse - Sat 17th May 2025

Martina Kiely is the first woman home in the Grocers Run 10k

The Grocers 5k & 10k charity Fun Run at Mallow racecourse was held on Sat 17th May 2025.

In the 10k, there were 88 finishers which is up on the 55 in 2024. In the 5k, there were 81 finishers compared to 75 last year.

10k - top 3 men & women...
103 1 Shane EADES m 35:19
226 2 Fergus MURPHY Donoughmore A.C. m 38:07
216 4 David NOLAN Aldi m 0:40:56 0:40:56  
4 3 Martina KIELY St Finbars f 38:24
180 11 Caroline KINSELLA Grange/Fermoy A.C. f 47:52  
162 13 Lisa QUIRKE Mount Hilary A.C. f 49:03

5km - top 3 men & women...
213 1 Darren COLEMAN Mallow Ac m 17:39  
219 2 John O MAHONY m 19:59  
184 4 Denis BROWNE Eagle A.C. m 20:54
210 3 Linda GROGAN Dundrum A.C. f 20:05  
172 5 Siobhan HOLLAND Eagle A.C. f 21:42  
245 6 Clodagh CREEDON St. Finbarrs A.C. f 21:44

The full results of both distances can be found HERE

Photos...

1) Sweaty Snaps has a gallery HERE

Guest Post: KILMALLOCK FOUR-MILE ROAD RACE, Friday May 16th 2025 ...by John Walshe

KILMALLOCK FOUR-MILE ROAD RACE, Friday May 16th 2025

On a warm evening for running, Declan Moore from the Bilboa repeated his victory from last year at the annual Kilmallock four-mile race.

Declan Moore receiving the Jim Hogan Perpetual Cup from Mary Murphy, sister of the late Jim. Also pictured is Mary’s husband Donal

His time of 19:54 was outside the 19:31 he ran last year but it gave him a clear advantage over runner-up (for the second year) Karl Lenihan of West Limerick (21:33), with Derek Kiely (Limerick) third in 22:35.

Breda Gaffney from Mallow was equally a clear winner of the women’s race in 23:56 ahead of Pamela Kirby (Bilboa), 24:57, with Susan Glennon from Mullingar finishing third in 25:09.

Breda Gaffney, first in the women’s race, receiving the Tommy Hanley Memorial Cup from Mike Reynolds, Kilmallock AC

Along with his prize, Declan Moore also received the Jim Hogan Perpetual Cup in memory of the locally-born runner who famously won the 1966 European Marathon while representing Great Britain. The cup was presented by Mary Murphy, a sprightly 93-year-old sister of the late Jim who attended along with her husband Donal.

Born back in 1933, Jim Hogan changed his name from Cregan to Hogan after moving to England for work. He ran for Ireland in the marathon at the 1964 Tokyo Olympics. There, he was in medal contention after tracking eventual winner Abebe Bikila for more than 20 miles before being forced to drop out in the closing stages due to severe dehydration.

In 1966, he went on to win the European Marathon title in a time of 2:20:04 – on this occasion wearing a British singlet, having declared for the UK citing indifferences and frustrations with the way in which Irish athletics was being run at the time. A number years ago a book was published on his life titled ‘The Irishman who ran for England’.

Jim Hogan passed away at the age of 81 back in January 2015. Such was the esteem in which he was held that former world 10,000m record holder Dave Bedford travelled from the UK for his funeral which took place in the little village of Athlacca.

In an interview back in the day, Bedford – who also served as Race Director of the London Marathon - was asked if he admired any particular athlete. He replied: “At one time I used to like Jim Hogan’s running, partly because he was a very controversial character – I like controversial characters – but also he had guts and said what he thought.”

A welcome return to the winners’ rostrum at Kilmallock was Mallow-man Pat Kerrigan, first in the M70 category. In only his third competitive outing for many years – apart from parkruns – Pat’s appearance brought back memories of the 1970s and 1980s when he was one of the outstanding runners in the county, very rarely outside the prizes.

Pat Kerrigan, first in the M70 category, receiving his prize from Mike Reynolds

And it wasn’t just on the Cork circuit as he also travelled overseas to compete at a time when many did not. One such trip was to the New York Marathon in 1982 where he ran 2:32:48, finishing just outside the first 200 of the 13,500 finishers.

Accompanying him on that occasion was his regular training and racing companion, Andy Neenan, who also ran an impressive time of 2:36:58 around the streets of New York.  

Full results...

Results of the 5k parkruns in Cork - Sat 17th May 2025

Results of the 5k parkruns around the county on Saturday 17th May 2025. Approximately 1,029  runners and walkers took part in the 11 events in Co Cork.

Report... Another sunny morning for the 5k parkruns in Co Cork this week.

Macroom... The oldest 5k parkrun in Co Cork celebrates its 12th birthday! Enda Kiernan also reached the 250 parkrun mark.

ONGOING

If I missed anyone who passed a notable milestone like 100, 200, 250 or above parkruns then let me know.

***

Ballincollig Regional Park: 311 this week, 298 last week.

First 3 men & women...

1 Liam COTTER Male SM20-24 Bishopstown Orienteering Club 18:13

2 Sean O BRIEN Male VM40-44 St Finbarrs AC 18:16

3 John MULVIHILL Male VM45-49 18:57

26 Mairead PEREZ Female VW50-54 Eagle A.C. 21:44

28 Patricia VICARIO Female VW45-49 21:48

31 Mari BURKE Female VW45-49 22:09

Ballincollig results... https://www.parkrun.ie/ballincollig/results/375/

Tramore Valley Park: 189 this week, 211 last week.

First 3 men & women...

1 Christopher O'REILLY Male VM35-39 17:12

2 Rory O'SULLIVAN Male VM45-49 St Finbarrs AC 17:45

3 Tomé RODRÍGUEZ RODRÍGUEZ Male SM25-29 19:04

17 Niamh CRONIN Female VW45-49 St Finbarrs AC 21:32

32 Ruth MCCARTHY Female SW25-29 23:21

41 Catherine TUCKER Female SW30-34 Durham City Harriers AC 24:42

Tramore Valley Park results... https://www.parkrun.ie/tramorevalley/results/153/

Glen River: 60 this week, 80 last week.

First 3 men & women...

1 Marcus BISHOP Male SM30-34 17:44

2 Cian MCPARLAND Male VM45-49 St Finbarrs AC 19:50

3 Sam CHAPMAN Male SM25-29 20:16

6 Nollaigh O'NEILL Female VW50-54 22:41

13 Jasmine NOURSE Female SW25-29 24:59

19 Catherine DEENIHAN Female VW55-59 UCC Staff Athletics Club 26:25

Glen River results...  https://www.parkrun.ie/glenriver/results/259/

Midleton Greenway: 148 this week, 149 last week.

First 3 men & women...

1 Cian KELLY Male SM25-29 16:37

2 Toby BENHAM Male SM30-34 Rugby & Northampton AC 18:10

3 Brendan MAGUIRE Male VM45-49 18:14

7 Nadine FORDE Female VW40-44 19:34

14 Sadhbh CRONIN Female JW15-17 21:11

16 Emer FINLAY Female SW30-34 21:27

Midleton Greenway... https://www.parkrun.ie/midletongreenway/results/16/

Mallow Castle: 69 this week, 44 last week.

First 3 men & women...

1 Matthew COOKE Male JM15-17 19:13

2 Martin O LEARY Male VM40-44 Eagle A.C. 22:05

3 Pat LYONS Male VM55-59 22:42

9 Elspeth AHERN Female SW30-34 24:01

16 Heather GUINEE Female VW35-39 24:49

20 Clodagh BENNETT Female VW45-49 25:27

Mallow results...  https://www.parkrun.ie/mallowcastle/results/181/

Youghal (Pobalscoil ne Tríonóide) : 38 this week, 35 last week.

First 3 men & women...

1 Ger LYNCH Male VM40-44 21:25

2 Ger FOX Male VM50-54 21:58

3 Mike MCMAHON Male VM50-54 22:31

4 Sarah SALMON Female JW10 23:01

6 Cliona O'KEEFFE Female VW40-44 23:54

8 Claire GILLIGAN Female VW60-64 24:32

Youghal results... https://www.parkrun.ie/pobalscoilnatrionoide/results/159/

Macroom Castle Demense: 51 this week, 52 last week.

First 3 men & women...

1 Sebastien NAUTREZ Male VM45-49 18:40

2 Jude MURPHY Male JM15-17 20:36

3 Unknown

18 Maria MADIGAN Female VW45-49 Eagle A.C. 24:13

27 Carmel PURCELL Female VW45-49 West Muskerry A.C. 26:26

28 Mary WELLS Female VW65-69 27:17

Macroom results... https://www.parkrun.ie/macroomcastledemesne/results/527/

Clonakilty: 37 this week, 38 last week.

First 3 men & women...

1 Unknown

2 Tadgh CARROLL Male SM30-34 19:05

3 Shane WINTERS Male JM11-14 20:18

11 Sandra WALSH Female VW55-59 24:57

22 Grace HAREN Female SW20-24 28:42

24 Niamh RYAN Female VW40-44 28:45

Clonakilty results... https://www.parkrun.ie/clonakilty/results/481/

Glengarriff Woods: 62 this week, 66 last week.

Top 3 men & women...

1 Finn CONNER Male JM15-17 21:00

2 Shane O BRIEN Male JM15-17 21:24

3 Patrick O CONNOR MASON Male SM20-24 Kenmare Athletics Club 21:39

5 Ciara TIERNEY Female VW35-39 Tralee Triathlon Club 22:32

8 Bernadette O'DRISCOLL Female SW30-34 23:10

14 Zoe HUDSON Female SW30-34 25:50

Glengarriff results... https://www.parkrun.ie/glengarriff/results/400/

Bere Island: 44 this week, 42 last week. 

First 3 men & women...

1 David MCCARTHY Male VM35-39 21:04

2 Kevin LATOUR Male SM30-34 21:34

3 Cyril MCNAMARA Male VM55-59 22:15

5 Laoise RYAN Female SW20-24 23:16

8 Breeda O SULLIVAN Female VW55-59 Beara AC 23:52

11 Leahanne SULLIVAN Female SW25-29 27:12

Bere Island results... https://www.parkrun.ie/bereisland/results/492/

Castlehaven (Rineen Woods): 20 finishers this week, 12 last week.

First 3 men & women...

1 Jack MURPHY Male VM35-39 Eagle A.C. 21:14

2 Sean LUCEY Male VM35-39 21:59

3 James WHITE Male VM35-39 24:34

12 Aisling O'KEEFFE Female SW30-34 30:50

16 Catherine BAILEY Female VW45-49 33:48

17 Bella YORK Female VW40-44 36:50

Castlehaven results... https://www.parkrun.ie/castlehaven/results/412/

For more information about the weekly 5k parkruns in Co Cork, go to this page HERE.