The inaugural Dublin City Half Marathon took place on Sunday, marking a major new milestone in the annual running calendar.
Organised by the experienced team behind the Irish Life Dublin Marathon and Race Series, in partnership with Dublin City Council, the event underscored the capital’s commitment to hosting major sporting events that foster community participation and promote active, healthy lifestyles.
Nearly 12,000 runners—from elite athletes and club competitors to charity fundraisers and first-time half marathoners—took to the streets, covering 21km in glorious sunshine through Dublin’s vibrant northside.
With a start time of 08:30 on O’Connell Street, runners embarked on a scenic route supported by Dublin City Council, ensuring a seamless race day experience.
Backed by fellow Sport for Business member Irish Life, a dedicated advocate for health and wellness, the event embodied the spirit of inclusivity and determination, reinforcing its theme: “Run Together—Thrive Together.”
History
Killian Mooney and Nichola Sheridan made history as the inaugural Dublin City Half Marathon winners. Mooney (29), from Dundrum South Dublin AC, broke away early to win what was only his third half marathon in 65 minutes 40 seconds.
He came home almost a minute and a half ahead of St Coca’s AC’s David Kelly (67:02), with Armagh’s AC Michael Fox taking third in 67:24. Mooney ran a personal best of 64:43 in Naples five weeks ago, and two days ahead of his 30th birthday, admitted: “I never thought I’d do a ‘half’. I was much more of a 10km runner, but I think I may have found my distance now.”
Equally delighted was second-placed Kelly (29), a PE teacher and former US collegiate runner with Drake University, who is still guided by his college coach, Irish running legend Mark Carroll. “A year ago I was mentally burned out, just needed a break,” Kelly said. “I’m not putting any pressure on myself now and I haven’t missed a day since January which is really working for me.”
It was also the first major title for women’s winner Sheridan (28) of Bohermeen AC, a primary school teacher in her native Meath, who revealed afterwards that she’d attended her sister’s hen party the previous night; “This is the biggest win of my career.”
“When my dad passed away when I was 18, I took up running again and David Carrie, who was a good friend of my dad’s, started coaching me two years ago. He’s brought my time down from 1:25 to 1:16 and is a fantastic support.”
She came home in 78 minutes flat, over three and a half minutes ahead of Sportsworld’s Noreen Brouder (81:42). Sheridan’s good friend Edel Gaffney (Trim AC), whom she met through running 18 months ago and had earlier warmed up with, took third in 83:31. Kildare’s Patrick Monahan won the men’s wheelchair race in 50 minutes 59 seconds. British Paralympian Jade Hall won the women’s wheelchair event in 57:07.
Crowd support along the course was exceptional, particularly in the North East Inner City, where enthusiastic spectators lined the streets, waving banners and cheering on the runners. The electric atmosphere provided an extra boost to both elite and everyday participants, creating an unforgettable race day experience.
Congratulations
“I want to congratulate everyone who participated today, whether you came near the top or the back of the field; what a brilliant achievement to take part in a half marathon,” said Lord Mayor of Dublin Emma Blain.
“We want to make Dublin an active, inclusive city for all.”
“Through the Dublin City Sport and Wellbeing Partnership, we work to break down barriers and create opportunities for people of all backgrounds to engage in sport and physical activity.”
“Our Community Engagement Half Marathon Programme is a key part of this vision—supporting 225 participants on their journey to the start line. From running clubs to community groups, we’re empowering people to unlock their potential and build lasting connections through sport.”
With thousands of runners crossing the finish line, the Dublin City Half Marathon has cemented itself as a premier event in Irish athletics. The heart of the event belonged to the everyday runners—those chasing personal milestones, running for charity, or simply embracing the challenge of 21kms.
From first-time finishers celebrating their achievement to seasoned club runners supporting one another along the route, the race truly captured the diverse and inspiring spirit of the running community.
Further Reading for Sport for Business members: Celebrating the Community of the Dublin City Half Marathon.
SPORT FOR BUSINESS PERSPECTIVE
This is an excellent example of an active Local authority looking at delivery through a different lens and making a real difference for the city’s people.
WHAT’S UP NEXT?
The Irish Life Dublin Marathon takes place on Sunday, October 26th, 2025
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