Dubliner Killian Mooney crowned champion of the inaugural Dublin City Half Marathon

The inaugural Dublin City Half Marathon took place yesterday, marking a major new milestone in the annual running calendar.  

Organised by the experienced team behind the Irish Life Dublin Marathon and Race Series, in partnership with Dublin City Council, the event underscored the capital’s commitment to hosting major sporting events that foster community participation and promote active, healthy lifestyles.  

Nearly 12,000 runners—from elite athletes and club competitors to charity fundraisers and first-time half marathoners—took to the streets, covering 21km in glorious sunshine through Dublin’s vibrant northside.  

With a start time of 8:30am on O’Connell Street, runners embarked on a scenic route supported by Dublin City Council, ensuring a seamless race day experience.

Backed by Irish Life, a dedicated advocate for health and wellness, the event embodied the spirit of inclusivity and determination, reinforcing its theme: “Run Together – Thrive Together.” 

Killian Mooney and Nichola Sheridan made history as the first winners of the inaugural Dublin City Half Marathon.

Mooney (29), from Dundrum South Dublin AC, broke away early to win what was only his third half marathon in 65 minutes 40 seconds.

He came home almost a minute and a half ahead of St Coca’s AC’s David Kelly (67:02), with Armagh’s AC Michael Fox taking third in 67:24.

Mooney ran a personal best of 64:43 in Naples five weeks ago, and two days ahead of his 30th birthday, admitted: “I never thought I’d do a ‘half’. I was much more of a 10km runner, but I think I may have found my distance now.”

Equally delighted was second-placed Kelly (29), a PE teacher and former US collegiate runner with Drake University, who is still guided by his college coach, Irish running legend Mark Carroll.

“A year ago I was mentally burned out, just needed a break,” Kelly said. “I’m not putting any pressure on myself now and I haven’t missed a day since January which is really working for me.” 

It was also the first major title for women’s winner Sheridan (28) of Bohermeen AC, a primary school teacher in her native Meath.

She came home in 78 minutes flat, over three and a half minutes ahead of Sportsworld’s Noreen Brouder (81:42). Edel Gaffney (Trim AC), took third in 83:31. 

Broader of Sportsworld Terenure Running Club a mum of two, she was particularly delighted to make the podium on Mother’s Day: “I’d run 36:17 in Dunboyne (Half) last weekend so that was still in my legs but at least we did the hills at the start today.

“I tucked in behind a few tall lads when we turned into the Howth Road so I was grand.” She added

“I’m usually involved in teams with Sportsworld so this is the biggest thing I’ve done individually and there was such a great buzz around the place and the whole race this morning.

“It was deadly.” 

Kildare’s Patrick Monahan won the men’s wheelchair race in 50 minutes 59 seconds and British Paralympian Jade Hall won the women’s wheelchair event in 57:07. 

Crowd support along the course was exceptional, particularly in the North East Inner City, where enthusiastic spectators lined the streets, waving banners and cheering on the runners.

The electric atmosphere provided an extra boost to both elite and everyday participants, creating an unforgettable race day experience. 

Lord Mayor of Dublin Emma Blain said: “I want to congratulate everyone who participated today, whether you came near the top or the back of the field, what a brilliant achievement to take part in a half marathon!

“We want to make Dublin an active, inclusive city for all. Through the Dublin City Sport & Wellbeing Partnership, we work to break down barriers and create opportunities for people of all backgrounds to engage in sport and physical activity.

“Our Community Engagement Half Marathon Programme is a key part of this vision—supporting 225 participants on their journey to the start line.”