Athletics Ireland has confirmed a seven-athlete team for the 2026 IAU 100km World Championships, set for Sunday, September 20th in Ames, Spain.
It is a squad built around proven endurance, with national record holders at the head of both the men’s and women’s teams and a mix of experienced operators and in-form runners filling out the lineup.
On the women’s side, Caitriona Jennings of Letterkenny AC leads the charge. The Irish 100km record holder brings a level of experience that counts over a distance like this, where things can unravel quickly if the pacing or fuelling goes off. She is joined by Patricia McLoughlin of Le Chéile AC, who has been putting together a strong stretch of performances and will be looking to carry that into championship racing.
The men’s team is anchored by Ciaran McGonagle, another Letterkenny AC athlete and the current Irish 100km record holder. Around him is a group that offers depth and reliability, with Rob Kelly of Raheny Shamrock AC, Matthew Collins of Portmarnock AC, Terry Shanley of Clane AC, and Sean Meehan of Cherry Orchard Running Club all selected.
The 100km distance is a different beast altogether. This is not a case of hanging on over the final few miles. It is a slow burn from early on, where decisions made at 20km can come back to bite at 80km. Ireland’s squad will need to get that balance right if they are to come away with strong results.
Overseeing the group in Spain will be Louis Byrne of Glendalough AC, who takes on team lead duties for the championships.
The event in Ames will also incorporate the World Masters Athletics 100km Championships on the same day, adding another layer to what is already a demanding schedule.
Full Ireland Team – 2026 IAU 100km World Championships
Men’s Team
- Ciaran McGonagle (Letterkenny AC)
- Rob Kelly (Raheny Shamrock AC)
- Matthew Collins (Portmarnock AC)
- Terry Shanley (Clane AC)
- Sean Meehan (Cherry Orchard Running Club)
Women’s Team
- Caitriona Jennings (Letterkenny AC)
- Patricia McLoughlin (Le Chéile AC)
Team Lead
- Louis Byrne (Glendalough AC)
