Welcome to the fourth installment of our Ordinary Marathon Heroes series, where we've explored extraordinary feats from around the world, including an incredible Aussie running farmer and unforgettable performances at the Boston Marathon. But now, we're turning closer to home to shine a light on Alex O’Shea, a Cork-based firefighter whose running achievements are as remarkable as the man himself. Alex has pushed his physical and mental limits in ways that most of us can only dream of, including setting a Guinness World Record to completing some of the most grueling endurance events in the world.
Alex O'Shea is not your typical marathoner. A firefighter from Cork, he's turned running into a series of extraordinary feats, including one in full firefighter gear, as though conquering fire by taking on an entirely different kind of heat: the demands of ultra-endurance races. Whether he's charging through the streets of Cork or battling Arctic tundra, Alex has proven time and again that he's a man of remarkable mental and physical strength.
Breaking Records in Firefighting Gear
His journey began in 2014 when, for reasons known only to him, Alex decided to run the Cork City Marathon in full firefighting gear. That meant steel-toed boots, fire-retardant pants, a heavy 3lb firefighter helmet, and a visor, all while attempting to beat the clock in one of the toughest race distances around. The result? A Guinness World Record with a time of 3 hours, 41 minutes and 10 seconds, smashing the previous record by over an hour and a half. As Alex shared with the Irish Independent at the time, “I did that because I knew I was going to get too tired. I think I went out too quick. The world record was very much achievable but I wanted to run as best a race I could for me. I am absolutely delighted. Every single person cheered me on. It was phenomenal.”
But this was just the beginning of his unconventional running career.
32 Marathons in 16 Days: A New Kind of Firefighter Challenge
In 2018, Alex decided to up the ante. This time, the goal wasn’t just breaking a record, it was about completing the impossible. Alex ran two marathons a day for 16 consecutive days, completing 32 marathons in 32 counties across Ireland. The mission was to raise funds for Irish Guide Dogs for the Blind, a cause close to his heart. Alex was joined by Garda Ollie O’Sullivan, who ran 50km a day alongside him. The duo didn’t just cover an unbelievable amount of distance, they forged a deep emotional bond throughout the challenge, as Alex recalled in an interview with RTÉ: “When I took on this challenge I knew it could be achieved but it would be very difficult. The smallest injury could derail the attempt but thankfully with Ollie's help we always remained positive and ahead of any problems.”
Their journey wasn’t just about physical endurance; it was about connecting with others along the way. “We have been trusted with stories of loved ones lost to illness and personal connections to the Irish Guide Dogs,” Alex said, reflecting on the support they received. For the pair, it was a privilege to run in support of such an important cause. By the end, the challenge had raised significant funds and awareness for the charity, proving that running wasn’t just a personal test, it was a way to give back to the community.
Conquering the Cold: The 240km Ice Ultra
As if running 32 marathons in 16 days wasn’t enough, Alex took on one of the world’s toughest endurance challenges in 2024, the Beyond The Ultimate 240km Ice Ultra. Set in the harsh, snow-covered landscapes of Sweden, Alex faced subzero temperatures, treacherous footing, and conditions so extreme that even the most seasoned runners would have second thoughts. But not Alex. With his usual quiet confidence, he dove into the challenge, prepared for the physical toll and fully aware of the mental hurdles ahead.
In an interview with the Irish Independent, Alex reflected on his preparation: “I have experienced one cold race in the past when I ran the Lake Baikal Ice Marathon in Siberia. But while that offered me some cold running experience, it was a very different event. It was after all only a single stage marathon over in a blink of an eye in comparison to what's ahead.” This race, however, was a multi-day test of endurance, requiring Alex to carry a backpack, wear snowshoes, and pack freeze-dried food for sustenance.
Despite the freezing temperatures and brutal competition, Alex finished first with an overall time of 32 hours and 31 minutes. It was a grueling five-day battle through the snow, with Alex holding his lead throughout most of the race. The final 15 kilometres were a mad dash, but with his experience, Alex kept his head and crossed the finish line victorious.
Such an achievement, it was we covered on Run Republic here
The Heart of a Hero
Throughout it all Alex O’Shea has remained grounded. A man who represents the best of human determination and spirit, he doesn’t run for glory or accolades. He runs for causes that matter, to push his own limits, and to inspire others to do the same. Through his journey, he has proven that ordinary people can achieve extraordinary things. The only fire Alex needs to fight is the one that keeps driving him to do more, go further, and never back down.
For Alex, the finish line is just another starting point.