Very successful return of AXA Raheny 5 to the roads

(Pictured above, L to R: Robert Fagan AXA Branch manager Swords, Ryan Creech (2^nd Man), Efrem Gidey (Men’s Winner), Fionnuala McCormack (Women’s winner), Ben Branagh (3^rd Man), Nakita Burke (3^rd Woman) and Paul Nolan AXA Ireland DAC

The 38th running of the AXA Raheny 5 returned to the roads yesterday after going virtual in 2021 due the Covid-19 pandemic.

The race is firmly established as the biggest road race in Ireland and as in other years attracted a high calibre field.

This year’s event drew a large crowd of athletes with over 3,500 participating in the adult race, as well as 700 children taking part in a range of underage races.

The adult races were won by Efrem Gidey and Fionnuala McCormack.

Efrem Gidey crosses the line to win the AXA Raheny 5
Photo Fennell Photography / Copyright 2022

“Raheny Shamrock were delighted to see such a large number of runners and supporters attend the event,” said AXA Raheny 5 race director Dave Hooper.

“There was a great buzz around the course as people were genuinely delighted to have the race back on the roads of Raheny this year.

“The support from the local community like every year was fantastic.”

The Lord Mayor of Dublin Alison Gilliland was in attendance to start the race and spoke highly of the race founder and long-time organiser Pat Hooper who sadly passed away in 2020.

Paul, Nolan AXA Ireland DAC said:

“AXA has had a long association with the race over many years and we were delighted to see so many people out on the streets of Raheny for what was a very enjoyable afternoon.

“AXA is very proud to support Raheny Shamrock and their commitment to the local community.”