Fields of Athenry 10k 2025

St. Stephen’s Day morning 2025, was a fresh and crisp one in the fields of Athenry. Conditions were ideal for running with cool winter air, dry roads and little wind — perfect weather for racing. This year marked a record-breaking edition of the event with close to 3,000 entries and an incredible 2,400 runners taking to the start line opposite the train station to tackle the traditional one-loop course. From early morning, the town was buzzing, with a large crowd of spectators lining the streets and creating a fantastic atmosphere throughout.

The opening kilometres brought runners towards the countryside, where the winter landscape stretched out on either side. Junctions were expertly marshalled and runners were met with continuous encouragement from volunteers and supporters alike. The steady rhythm of feet on the road, combined with cheers from the roadside, carried athletes smoothly through the early stages of the race.

The pace at the front was electric, and it was Jamie Fallon of Craughwell AC who led the field home, crossing the line in an impressive 30:34 to make it back-to-back victories. He was followed closely by Luke Johnson of Moy Valley AC in 31:17, with Karl Fitzmaurice of Shannon AC rounding out the podium in 31:48.

The women’s race was equally exciting, with victory going to Ava Crean, the immensely talented 19-year-old who recently made history by becoming the youngest Irish National Marathon Champion in Dublin earlier this year. Running for Back 2 Boston, Ava crossed the line in 33:40, which was a record result, for the Irish Junior Woman 10KM, a time currently being reviewed as a potential course record. Second place went to local lady Deirdre Grady of Ennis AC in 34:44, followed by Maebh Brannigan of Galway City Harriers in 35:16.

Our corporate cup kindly sponsored by The Castle Group was won by Boston Scientific.

This year’s navy race hat proved hugely popular, continuing the tradition of a much-loved race souvenir. The scale of participation and spectator support made for an unforgettable day, with the streets of Athenry alive from start to finish and a real sense of community spirit on display.

Under the guidance of the race committee led by Maeve Noone and the dedication of countless volunteers, the 2025 race was a tremendous success. Sincere thanks to all marshals, helpers, sponsors especially our main sponsor Kare Plus, spectators and, of course, the athletes who made the day so special. With record numbers, superb performances and a fantastic atmosphere, St. Stephen’s Day 2025 is one for the books!

We look forward to welcoming everyone back again next year.

Senior Men
1. Jamie Fallon (Craughwell AC) – 30:34
2. Luke Johnson (Moy Valley AC) – 31:17
3. Karl Fitzmaurice (Shannon AC) – 31:48

Senior Women
1. Ava Crean (Back 2 Boston) – 33:40
2. Deirdre Grady (Ennis AC) – 34:44
3. Maebh Brannigan (Galway City Harriers) – 35:16

Check out photos from our friend John O’Connor.