Community Spirit and Speed Combine at Arklow 5K Fundraiser
Runners from across Wicklow and beyond descended on the streets of Arklow for the ‘Night of the 5k PBs’ race on Saturday evening. Organised by Coral Leisure Arklow, the event was created with the goal of raising vital funds for the Arklow Community First Responders.
Split into two races, an elite category for runners targeting sub-19 minutes and a non-elite race open to all levels, the event saw impressive performances and an electric atmosphere from the supporting crowds.
Arklow’s Athletics Club St. Benedict Inbhear Mór AC were out in force, with club members putting in tremendous performances across both races. One such performance came in the non-elite 5K race, where 14-year-old Eoghan O’Reilly crossed the finish line in first place with a blistering time of 17:46. Craig Brack-Sinnott took second place in a time of 18:18, followed by Mervyn Griffin from Parnell AC in third in 19:22.
In the Women’s race, Sarah Hade from Brothers Pearse AC took the win in 19:25, followed by Mary Gartland in second in 19:31. There were more podium celebrations for Arklow as 15-year-old Layla Dixon from Parnell AC claimed 3rd place with a superb time of 19:33.
The Elite Race was won by Alex Gray of Kilcoole AC in a time of 15:43, followed in second by Brendan Dunne of Sliabh Bhuide Rovers AC in 15:48, with Sean Hehir from Croghan AC taking third in 15:50.
Sheila O’Byrne from Parnell AC took the win in the Women’s race, crossing the line in 16:38, followed by Amey Bermingham of Galway City Harriers in 17:51, with third place going to Sarah Diamond from Kilcoole AC in 18:17.
Both elite and recreational runners turned out in strong numbers, with crowds lining the route to cheer on participants, many of whom were taking on their very first 5K. The supportive atmosphere, combined with the fine weather, made it a true celebration of Arklow’s sporting and community spirit.
Proceeds will support the life-saving work of the Arklow Community First Responders, who were also on hand throughout the day, providing medical cover and cheering on participants.
