Dublin’s Paul O’Donnell on National Podium in the 2025 the Irish Life Dublin Marathon

Rathfarnham’s Paul O’Donnell who runs for Dundrum South Dublin AC delivered an impressive performance at the Irish Life Dublin Marathon, crossing the line with a strong 2:12:17 to claim third place in the elite Irish men’s field and seventh overall.

Fresh off a personal best in March, the 27-year-old DSD athlete boasts a 2:10:17 from New York.

“The standard of Irish men at the moment is so strong,” said O’Donnell. “Ferghal last week ran sub-2:08, and David was just flying today.

“Ryan and myself were maybe a little aggressive in the first half and definitely struggled towards the end, but I’m really happy with how well I held on.”

David McGlynn (Waterford AC) produced the performance of his life to win the men’s national title, finishing fifth overall.

For the third successive year Ryan Creech of Leevale was the second Irishman home (2:11:42 PB), with Paul O’Donnell of Dundrum South Dublin AC won national bronze (2:12:11).

Having spent the last three years in America completing a master’s in finance at Syracuse University, O’Donnell credited his time abroad with helping him grow both as an athlete and as a person.

“Syracuse changed me in many ways, it gave me a different outlook on a lot of things. I had a great three years over there, made a lot of friends and experiences, and now it’s nice to be back competing for DSD.”

The Dublin Marathon’s challenging conditions, including stiff winds, tested all the elite runners.

“Hiko went out strong, and the wind took its toll on a lot of people, including Ryan and myself. David just ran it very smart and got it perfect,” O’Donnell said.

O’Donnell paid tribute to the coaches and support network who have guided him for over a decade.

“Donal Hennigan has coached me since I was 17, apart from the three years in America. Coach Brian Bell also did a lot of great work with me over there. Running may look like an individual sport, but I’ve been lucky to have the best team and support on the course today.”

He also acknowledged the personal inspiration from his mother, Myriam, who has overcome brain surgery and months of rehabilitation.

“My mam is a massive inspiration. Seeing her here today, after everything she’s been through, got me a bit emotional over the last mile.”

Inspired by his mother, O’Donnell’s performance highlights the incredible motivation driving runners at every level of the Irish Life Dublin Marathon.