PICTURES: All smiles at the Achill Half Marathon and 10k

The twenty-first Achill Half Marathon and 10k took place on Saturday, once again cementing its reputation as one of Ireland’s most scenic and challenging road races. More than 1,900 runners from across Ireland and overseas descended on Achill Island for an unforgettable day of competition, community spirit and spectacular scenery.

Organised by a dedicated voluntary committee, the event showcased the very best of Achill, with runners taking on the challenging course through the island’s breathtaking Atlantic landscape. Despite wet and foggy conditions, the atmosphere was electric as spectators lined the route to cheer on participants from the first starter to the final finisher.

This year’s event was officially started by Minister Jack Chambers TD, who wished all participants the very best before they set off on their journey around one of the country’s most iconic race routes. Minister Chambers also completed the 10k race.

Recognised as one of Ireland’s premier road races, the Achill Half Marathon and 10k continues to attract elite athletes, club runners and first-time participants alike, all drawn by the unique combination of challenge, scenery and the renowned Achill welcome.

Half-Marathon results

The Men’s Half Marathon title was claimed by Mick Silke in a superb time of 1:17:11. Second place went to John Anderson in 1:18:46, with Shane Heneghan finishing third in 1:22:14

The Women’s Half Marathon was won by Norah Newcombe, crossing the finish line in 1:27:46. Patricia McLoughlin finished second in 1:31:58, while Helen Skipper secured third place in 1:33:19.

10k Results

The Men’s 10K was won by Donal Coakley in 36:25, followed by Alex Murphy in 37:49 and Thomas Cummins in 38:16

The Women’s 10k title went to Sarah Byrne in 42:20, with Paula Guinan finishing second in a time of 42:40 and Donna Gallagher taking third in a time of 44:06

First Achill finishers

The first Achill residents home in the Half-Marathon were: Female: Claire McNamara; Male: Joint winners: Michael Hanley and Owen McNamara; The first Achill residents home in the 10k event were: Female: Roisin Thomas; Male: Michael Moran.

The Achill Half Marathon and 10k Committee extends its heartfelt congratulations to every participant who crossed the finish line. Whether competing for a podium place or achieving a personal goal, every runner played a part in another memorable chapter in the event’s history.

Chairperson Patricia Joyce said: “Every year this event demonstrates what can be achieved through community spirit, dedication and teamwork. We sincerely thank our volunteers, sponsors, emergency services, local authorities, residents and, of course, every runner who travelled to Achill to be part of this year’s event.

Chris McCarthy, Manager of Achill Tourism, added: “The Achill Half Marathon and 10k has become one of the highlights of the tourism calendar, bringing thousands of visitors to the island each summer. The event provides a significant boost to our local economy while showcasing the incredible beauty of Achill to visitors from across Ireland and around the world. We’d like to thank everyone involved in making today’s event such a success.”

The committee also acknowledged the invaluable support of its sponsors, Mayo County Council, An Garda Síochána, Achill Coast Guard, Civil Defence Mayo and Dublin, local residents, community organisations and over 150 volunteers whose dedication ensured another safe and successful event.

As the sun set on another fantastic Achill Half Marathon and 10k, runners left with medals, memories and a desire to return once again to experience one of Ireland’s finest road races.

Planning is already underway for the 2027 Achill Half Marathon and 10k, and organisers look forward to welcoming runners back to Achill next summer. Registration for the 2027 Achill Half- Marathon and 10 K will open later this year at www.achillmarathon.com. Save the date, and we’ll see you on the start line next summer.

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