Paul Mitchell of Tullamore Harriers on his way to finishing the 2024 Irish Life Dublin Marathon last Sunday. Mitchell was the first Harriers athlete home in a hugely impressive time of 2:31:21. Photo: Sam Barnes/Sportsfile.

Marvellous Mitchell leads the way for Harriers in Dublin Marathon

Tullamore Harriers AC News

Congratulations to the super Tullamore Harriers participants who competed in the 43rd Dublin Marathon on Sunday last. From elite runners to first-timers, everyone who took to the streets deserves major recognition for their hard work and dedication leading up to the race following on from months of training.

The event started at Leeson Street Lower at approximately 8:45am with the first wave, followed by the other three waves.

From here the runners tackled the challenging 26-mile course through the heart of Dublin, finishing at Mount Street Upper. The day was perfect for running, with only a light drizzle of rain in the first hour and while the breeze built up over the morning, the conditions were very favourable and comfortable.

Hiko Tonosa of Dundrum South Dublin AC broke the Irish record to claim the men’s national marathon title with an incredible time of 2:09:42 and finished third overall. In the women's category, Mucklagh native Ann-Marie McGlynn from Letterkenny AC reclaimed the national title with a time of 2:34:05. The Dublin marathon incorporates the National Marathon Championships and the Leinster Marathon Championships.

The event truly lived up to its reputation as the one of the "best marathons in the world" this year! The energy along the streets was palpable, with thousands of Dubliners and supporters from all over gathering to cheer on the runners. Their relentless encouragement, from the first mile to the very last, was a defining feature of the day.

For the Tullamore Harriers squad, the support was especially heartwarming. Familiar faces cheering them on provided a crucial morale boost just when it was needed most.

There were notable performances from club members such as club chairman Adrian Curley on his third marathon, shaving off some time on each outing; Shane McGuinness, who clocked 3.03.14, knocking 80 minutes off his debut marathon in 2023; and first timers who put on superb performances. All are truly inspiring.

First home in the blue and white was Paul Mitchell, who completed the course in an impressive 2:31:21. Close behind was Pauric Ennis, clocking in at 2:36:47, and Jonathan Dunne, who finished as the third man for the Harriers with a time of 2:39:1. Brilliant running.

On the women’s side, Rachel Henry shone in her debut marathon, completing it in 3:26:15, running for the most part alongside her training partner Evelyn Herlihy, who finished in 3:27:22. Una Mullen was the third Tullamore lady, in 3:40:15.

A big congratulations to every Tullamore Harriers runner who crossed the finish line, each with a story of personal triumph! From first-timers taking on their debut marathon to those breaking the 3-hour mark and everyone who ran with heart and pride to earn that well-deserved finisher’s medal. Each runner’s achievement is truly inspiring and brought pride to the club. Thanks to all the supporters around the course, and Adrian Martin for capturing great images - you all deserve a medal too!

Tullamore Harriers results: Paul Mitchell 2.31.21; Pauric Ennis 2.36.47; Jonathan Dunne 2.39.13; Eimhin Kenny 2.43.06; David Flaherty 2.59.16; Ollie Neary 3.03.48; Michael Brennan 3.05.10; Eoin Brennan 3.05.10; Shane McGuinness 3.05.20; Liam Byrne 3.17.53; Alan Heffernan 3.19.17; Sean Reynolds 3.21.59; Adrian Curley 3.23.17; Rachel Henry 3.26.15; Lorcan Scally 3.26.41; Diarmuid Herlihy 3.27.06; Evelyn Herlihy 3.27.22; George Webb 3.27.40; Sean Spollen 3.38.23; Una Mullen 3.40.15; Jason McDermott 3.41.51; Mary Daly 3.46.24; Leonard Owens 3.51.32; Paul Hensey 3.53.57; Lesley Cornally 3.53.57; Helena Buckley 4.00.41; John Carroll 4.02.13; Jennifer Burke 4.04.25; Basil Cronin 4.08.06; Peter Bennett 4.13.58 Olivia Weldon 4.34.16; Sinead Fox 4.37.10; Aisling McCormack 4.45.42; Larry Rigney 4.56.21.