Achill Half Marathon and 10k races conclude in spectacular fashion

THE 19th annual Achill Half Marathon and 10k races came to an exhilarating finish on Saturday, leaving participants and spectators alike enthralled by the breath-taking scenery and exceptional athleticism on display.

The event, organised by a voluntary committee, brought together a diverse community of runners from across the globe for a memorable day of competitive racing and camaraderie.

In near perfect running conditions over 1,500 dedicated runners converged upon the picturesque landscapes of Achill Island, creating an electrifying atmosphere. Participants ranged from seasoned athletes to enthusiastic amateurs, all united by their shared passion for running and a drive to push their limits.

Brendan Courtney, TV and radio presenter, returning to Achill to participate again for the third time, officiated at the start of the Achill Half Marathon and 10k. Brendan, who took up running during the Covid-19 pandemic, remains hugely enthusiastic about the race and we hope he will be back in 2025 to join in celebrating the 20th anniversary of the event.

_{Volunteer Noel Stenson.}

Recognised as one of Ireland’s most challenging and scenic races, the Achill Half Marathon and 10k presented runners with a now familiar experience for most of the runners. The route took them through rolling hills and serene coastal roads, offering stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean and the island’s rugged natural beauty.

In the men’s division of the Half Marathon, for the second year in a row Tudor Moldovan secured the first-place position, crossing the finish line in an impressive time of 1 hour, 11 minutes, and 30 seconds. Donal Coakley finished a close second with a time of 1 hour, 15 minutes, and 38 seconds, followed by Oran Finegan in third place with a time of 1 hour, 15 minutes, and 47 seconds.

In the women’s division, Theresa Hughes emerged victorious, completing the race in 1 hour, 27 minutes, and 17 seconds. Jenny Millett finished second in 1 hour, 30 minutes, and 20 seconds, and Joan Kinsella took third place in 1 hour, 30 minutes, and 59 seconds.

The 10k race provided a fantastic opportunity for participants to experience the thrill of competition on a shorter, yet still challenging course. Anthony Mannix finished as the first male winner in an impressive time of 33 minutes and 27 seconds.

Evan O’Rourke took second place with a time of 34 minutes and 27 seconds, followed by John Lee in third with a time of 34 minutes and 34 seconds. Laura O’Connor was the first female to cross the finish line in the 10K, clocking in at 44 minutes and 33 seconds followed closely by Achill Native Maeibh McNamara with a time of 46 minutes and 42 seconds, and Louise O’Riordan secured third place with a time of 46 minutes and 49 seconds.

The first Achill residents to finish the Half Marathon were Eva McNamara from Shraheens and Owen McNamara from Keel. The 65+ Veteran was won by Achill native Paraic Sweeney from Bleanaskill.

_{Cllr Paul McNamara with his daughter Eva who was the first Achill lady across the line in the Achill Half Marathon.}

Heartfelt congratulations
THE Achill Half Marathon and 10k Committee extends heartfelt congratulations and a huge thank you to all participants for their remarkable achievements and unwavering dedication. Their passion and commitment are truly inspiring, making the Achill Half Marathon and 10k races a significant highlight on the running calendar.

Chairperson, Patricia Joyce, expressed gratitude: “This year’s event would not have been possible without the generous support of our sponsors, volunteers, and local authorities. Their tireless efforts and dedication were instrumental in ensuring the smooth and successful execution of the races.”

Chris McCarthy, Manager of Achill Tourism, added the dedication and commitment of the various local contributors, and of course the runners on the day played a pivotal role in making the Achill Half Marathon and 10k races a resounding success.

“The event not only brings economic benefits to our local businesses but also fosters a palpable sense of community pride and unity. The enthusiastic participation of our residents, who cheered on the runners and provided much-needed encouragement along the route, exemplifies the warm hospitality for which Achill Island is renowned. Events like these significantly impact our local economy and tourism industry, contributing to the sustained growth of visitor numbers as runners and their families explore the island.”

As the sun set on another unforgettable Achill Half Marathon and 10k races, participants left with a sense of accomplishment and memories that will last a lifetime. The committee eagerly looks forward to welcoming runners back for the 20th anniversary event in 2025 which will be an even more exceptional and memorable event.

Achill Half Marathon and 10k is a community-driven organisation, dedicated to promoting and encouraging running as a sport and healthy lifestyle choice. The organising committee has been organising this event since 2005, - a project that starts the day after the event with the first planning meeting for the following year starting from July 7 onwards, and throughout the Winter and Spring, the team will come together to deliver the 2025 20th Anniversary event.

You will be able to register again for 2025, the 20th anniversary event, from September at www.achillmarathon.com. Save the date: July 5, 2025!