The Tom Brennan New Years Day 5k hosted by Liffey Valley started running off in Dublin for 2025. This first race of the year certainly was a great marker for what the year might bring. We were treated to some great weather conditions, albeit there was a strong enough breeze. Liffey Valley A.C. are the host and organisers of this now very popular race.
There is always a great feel and atmosphere to this event. It's a traditional race that is highly organised with a huge focus on the runners and clubs. This is one of the main reasons why runners return every year. For many years now it's also part of the Lord Mayors 5 Alive Challenge, which is aimed to get people active and focus on starting the new year on the right foot.
We had a good mix of highly talented club athletes and those who are just out to enjoy the new year without trying to break any records.
The race itself was won by Tadgh Donnelly of Drogheda & District A.C. & also under the wing of Feidhlim Kelly's Dublin Track Club. This was Tadghs 2nd win over the festive period. Tadgh had a very comfortable win and took the lead from very early on. Tadgh from Clogherhead in Co. Louth is currently on a scholarship in the US and thriving since he travelled to the states. He clocked a time of 14.38. There was another great race behind with Mullingar Harriers Jack O'Leary and Mahad Mohamad Egaal of Clonliffe Harriers racing right to the line for 2nd and 3rd with both running a time of 15:04. Jack just got ahead taking that 2nd place. Clonliffe Harriers were the men's team winners with Drogheda & District 2nd and Liffey Valley A.C. 3rd.
The women's race was also very straight forward with the top 3 falling into their expected positions based on pre race form. Laura Mooney of Tullamore Harriers won the race in a time of 16:49 followed by Lucy Barrett of Raheny Shamrock A.C. clocking 17:53. In 3rd place was recent winner of the Rita & Robbie 5k in Navan, Saoirse McGrath of Crusaders A.C.
The women's teams winners were Liffey Valley A.C, with Crusaders A.C. 2nd and 3rd place was Raheny Shamrock A.C.
We are off to a good start in 2025. Liffey Valley A.C. are leading the way for others to follow. Well done to all involved and thank you to all participants.
Full results, videos and stats can be seen below.
