IMRA Munster Navigational Challenge and Carrauntoohil Finale Conclude an Exciting Season
Munster Navigational Challenge – Comeraghs, 30 August 2025
On Saturday, 30 August 2025, IMRA launched its inaugural Munster Navigational Challenge in the stunning Comeragh Mountains. The weather proved a formidable opponent, turning what might have been a straightforward map-and-compass exercise into a true test of navigational mettle. Nonetheless, participants rose to the challenge.
- Eve Buckley emerged victorious in the women's long course.
- Mike Jordan took the win in the men’s long course with an incredible time of 2hrs and 17 mins.
Huge thanks were extended to RD Nick Hogan and the dedicated team of volunteers for delivering a memorable inaugural nav challenge. All are eagerly anticipating more such races in 2026.
Return to Carrauntoohil – Irish Championship Finale, 7 September 2025
On Sunday, 7 September 2025, IMRA returned to the iconic slopes of Carrauntoohil for the climactic round of the Irish Mountain Running Championship. The demanding 13.7 km route included a grueling 1,126 m of ascent - an endurance spectacle reserved for Ireland’s most seasoned mountain runners.
Top Finishers – Carrauntoohil 2025
Women
- Caroline Harney Ayton - 1:41:14
- Kate McDonald - 1:59:23
- Angeline Dresser - 2:04:15
Men
- Brian Mullins - 1:35:42
- Bernard Fortune - 1:39:17
- Henry Browne - 1:40:03
The overall Irish champions for 2025 were crowned: Caroline Harney Ayton (women) and Matthew McConnell (men).
Special thanks went to RDs Robbie Williams and Nick Hogan, along with all the amazing volunteers, for orchestrating an epic conclusion to the Irish Championship season.
The official results confirm the female podium in the Carrauntoohil race, which aligns fully with the user-provided details imra.ie.
What’s Next on IMRA’s Calendar
Looking ahead, the next highlight is the Kilworth Backyard Ultra, set to begin on Saturday, 13 September 2025. As IMRA Munster’s first-ever Backyard Ultra event, excitement is building among runners eager to test their ultra-endurance in this distinctive format.
Final Thoughts
IMRA's recent events underscore the organization’s commitment to diverse, challenging races—from navigation-focused contests in wild terrain to the dramatic, high-altitude battles on Carrauntoohil. As the season wraps up with the upcoming Kilworth Backyard Ultra, IMRA members, volunteers, and supporters can celebrate a standout summer of mountain running.
Photos by: Nick Hogan Brian Farren and Alice Clancy
