HISTORY was made over the Riverfest long weekend as 20,000 participants put feet on the streets for the annual Regeneron Great Limerick Run – the highest number to ever take part in the sporting highlight of Limerick’s big festival weekend.
50,000 spectators cheered the runners, walkers, and wheelers on from the sidelines this past Sunday as they took part in the marathon, half marathon, six-mile, and 10k routes in a display of the true Riverfest community spirit.
Participants travelled from across 38 international locations to take part in the 17th iteration of the Great Limerick Run.
And, participants in this year’s Great Limerick Run are forecasted to have raised over €350,000 for their chosen local and national charities.
- External Walls: Up to €8,000 Grant
- Attic: Up to €1,500 Grant
- Cavity Walls: Up to €1,700 Grant
- Internal Dry Lining: Up to €4,500 Grant
First across the iconic O’Connell Street finish line in the marathon were Jake O’Regan in the men’s section with a time of 2:19:37 and Dee Grady of Ennis Track AC in the women’s section in 2:43:05.
The mens and women’s half marathon were won by Chris Jeuken of Derg AC (1:07:21) and Alex Murphy (1:19:55).
John Durcan of Toher AC (30:51) took the top title in the men’s six-mile race while Leevale AC’s Jessica Coyne won the women’s category with a time of 33:43.
The marathon relay was won by Moycharney Cookoo AC in 2:24:58.
Since the inaugural race in 2010, more than 190,000 people have crossed the finish line for the Great Limerick Run, raising millions for charities nationwide. In the same time, over 450,000 supporters have lined the Treaty streets to cheer their friends and loved ones on.
According to a Great Limerick Run spokesperson, 2,500 bed nights are created each year from the annual run, with 100 per cent hotel occupancy recorded the night before race day. The average stay for those travelling from outside the region is two nights, the race spokesperson said.
The oldest participant in this year’s run was 83, while the youngest was just four years old.
Ahead of the race, on Saturday, over 2,500 primary school students from across the region turned out for the Great Limerick Run Kids Fun Run at the University of Limerick.
“As the curtain falls on another memorable Regeneron Great Limerick Run, we celebrate not just the physical achievements, but the incredible community spirit that makes this event truly special. Surpassing 20,000 participants is a milestone that belongs to every runner, walker, volunteer, and supporter who has been part of this journey,” a spokesperson said.
“Limerick once again proved itself as a world-class host, and we already look forward to next year’s event, which will take place on Sunday 2nd May 2027.”
‘Super early bird’ entries for next year’s outing are already available on greatlimerickrun.com.