On Wednesday evening, 2 July, the village of Dundrum, Co. Tipperary, burst into life as over 400 runners descended on its roads for the 40th annual Dundrum Athletic Club Coillte 10km. Now firmly established as one of Munster’s premier summer races, the event once again delivered a fantastic festival of running.
The course — a flat, fast, two-lap 5km loop — perfect for producing personal bests, and this year’s edition was no exception. While the main event was the 10km, a separate 5km option was available exclusively for junior runners, giving younger athletes the chance to shine in a competitive and supportive environment.
From the moment athletes arrived, the organisation shone through. Volunteers efficiently directed traffic to parking at the community centre and GAA grounds, while inside the hall, a unique trip down memory lane awaited. Race results from every year since the inaugural 1986 event were pinned up on the wall, allowing returning runners to check past performances and set new goals.
In a thoughtful twist, all online entrants received a high-quality towel instead of the usual race T-shirt — a practical memento that was warmly received. Post-race, the hall buzzed with runners enjoying a well-earned spread of tea, coffee, sandwiches and sweet treats — a hallmark of Irish road racing hospitality.
The event drew runners from across the county and beyond, with clubs from Kilkenny, Limerick, Cork, Offaly and elsewhere turning out in strong numbers. While the atmosphere was relaxed and welcoming, the competition at the front of the field was fierce.
Men’s 10km Results:
- Karl Fitzmaurice (Shannon AC) – 30:57
- Joshua Burgess (Lewes AC) – 31:03
- Kenneth Rogers (St John’s AC) – 31:09
Women’s 10km Results:
- Sinéad O’Connor (Leevale AC) – 34:40
- Dymphna Ryan (Dundrum AC) – 34:55
- Dee Grady (Ennis Track AC) – 35:04
10KM race results can be found here while the junior 5KM results can be found here.
It was a proud evening for the host club as Dymphna Ryan claimed second place overall in the women’s race — a fitting result in front of a home crowd.
Dundrum’s 10km is not only a race but an experience — fast, friendly and flawlessly organised. With a welcoming atmosphere, scenic route and deep roots in the local community, it’s no wonder this event comes so highly recommended year after year.
After four decades, the Dundrum 10km continues to set the pace and the standard for road races across Ireland.