The 2025 Irish Life Dublin Half Marathon drew thousands of runners and spectators to Phoenix Park last Sunday, September 21.
The event sold out on April 3, marking the earliest sell-out in its history and underscoring its significance as both a milestone in the running calendar and an important preparatory race ahead of the Irish Life Dublin Marathon on October 26.
Dublin athletes were among the standout performers at the 2025 Irish Life Dublin Half Marathon, which drew thousands to Phoenix Park for a record sell-out event.
Gavin Curtin who runs with Donore Harriers, David Glynn (Swords) and Fiona Stack (Raheny Shamrock AC) both claimed podium finishes, showcasing the strength of local talent.
Men’s Race
Men’s top 3, from left, second place finisher Gavin Curtin of Donore Harriers AC, first place finisher Jake O’Regan and third place finisher David Glynn. Photo by Ramsey Cardy/Sportsfile
In the men’s race, Clare native Jake O’Regan (St John’s AC), now living in Galway, claimed victory in 1:07:18.
Rising star Gavin Curtin (Donore Harriers) impressed on debut with 1:08:33. Curtin, 23, from Clondalkin, said:
“This is my first half marathon. I hadn’t run over 10k before. I was cautious because I wanted to feel well the whole way through, and I think I measured it well. I had energy in the last two miles, which was the main thing. I was running 5:05 to 5:10 a-mile up until the late stages.”
The young athlete, who has a degree in athletics therapy from TUS Athlone and is studying for a Masters in Physiotherapy at Portobello Institute, added:
“Today was more like a fitness test to see if I would be suited to the longer distances, to see where the body is. I don’t think I’m ready for a marathon yet!”
David Glynn (Swords) also featured prominently, claiming third place in 1:09:47, repeating his podium finish from last year. The Dublin-based runner reflected on the conditions and his performance:
“It was perfect weather for it, a few nasty hills but otherwise all good. I was happy with anything under 1:10 and I’m looking forward to the full marathon in Dublin next month.”
Women’s Race
Women’s top 3, from left, second place finisher Meabh Brannigan of Galway City Harriers AC, first place finisher Caitlyn Harvey of Roadrunners AC and third place finisher Fiona Stack of Raheny Shamrock AC. Photo by Ramsey Cardy/Sportsfile
The women’s race saw a breakthrough for Caitlyn Harvey (Roadrunners AC), who sealed her first Dublin Half Marathon win in 1:18:44. Maebh Brannigan (Galway City Harriers) finished just 13 seconds behind in 1:18:57, with Dublin favourite Fiona Stack rounding out the podium in 1:21:30.
Stack, 41, is a tax accountant and mother of three young children (aged 8, 5, and 3). Originally from Ballyshannon in Donegal, she now resides in Marino; “The Dublin Race Series are some of my favourite races always. They’re so well organised and you’re spoilt for choice with support,” said Stack. “This is my 11th time running Dublin and I absolutely love it!”
Balancing work and family, Fiona trains very early in the morning along the seafront at Clontarf and Howth, often starting at six o’clock. This year’s Irish Life Dublin Marathon will mark her 20th marathon overall and 11th in Dublin, where she set her personal best of 2:44 last year. “The secret is hard work. I’m not fast, but I work really hard!” she says.
Phoenix Park atmosphere
The 2025 course followed the popular 2024 layout, which started and finished in Phoenix Park with a brief detour via Castleknock Gate. Pacers guided participants aiming for times between 1:30 and 2:30, while strategically placed hydration stations and Lucozade Sport ensured athletes stayed fuelled and energised throughout the race.
Finishers were presented with medals designed by NCAD student Lily Cruickshank Whyte, inspired by the oak tree as a symbol of strength and resilience.
Families and spectators enjoyed the lively Irish Life Zone along Furze Road, featuring outdoor games, face painting, and a cheering area near the finish. Runners also benefited from complimentary sports massages and recovery sessions courtesy of Irish Life Health.
Results – Irish Life Half Marathon 2025
Men:
- Jake O’Regan – 1:07:18
- Gavin Curtin – 1:08:33
- David Glynn – 1:09:47
Women:
- Caitlyn Harvey – 1:18:44
- Maebh Brannigan – 1:18:57
- Fiona Stack – 1:21:30