Over 1,000 runners took part of the inaugural Sonia 5K; in association with Euromedic Ireland, in Dun Laoghaire on Saturday, June 13th.
The event organised by Athletics Ireland marked the 20th Anniversary of Irish athletics icon Sonia O’Sullivan’s historic victory in the 5,000 metres at the IAAF World Championships in Gothenburg in 1995.
Race Video
The Sonia 5K gave participants a rare opportunity to join the former World Champion and Olympic Silver Medallist in this Special Celebration Event on a beautiful scenic route around Dublin Bay which started and finished in Dun Laoghaire Harbour.
Race Winners
Irish international cross country runner Brendan O’Neill (Dundrum South Dublin AC) was first to break the tape in a time of 14.43, he was followed home by Gary Thornton (Galway City Harriers AC) second in a time of 15.01 with Conor Dooney (Raheny Shamrock AC) third in a time of 15.21.
Mary Ballinger on holidays from Chicago made the most of her trip with a victory in the ladies section with a winning time of 17.40. O’Sullivan herself placed second in a time of 19.27 and then proceeded to go back down the course to cheer on and run with the rest of the competitors. Noreen Brouder placed third in a time of 19.45.
Commemorative Medal
All finishers received a Unique Commemorative Medal - an exact replica of the World Championship Gold Medal won by Sonia O’Sullivan in Gothenburg in 1995 when she became Ireland’s first-ever female Athletics World Champion.
Sonia O’Sullivan said: “I was really great to celebrate the anniversary of one of my greatest track achievements with those who enjoy running as much as I do, the atmosphere was fantastic.”
“It was great to be part of this fantastic event and I cannot think of a more fitting way to honour the achievements of Sonia O’Sullivan. Congratulations to Athletics Ireland on conceiving the idea and to all who took part in this fabulous run. Euromedic is delighted to the support the Sonia 5k” said Tom Finn, CEO of Euromedic Ireland.
John Foley, CEO Athletics Ireland said: “We were honoured to be able to mark Sonia O’Sullivan’s crowning achievement on the track.”
The Sonia 5K will be organised in partnership with Dun Laoghaire Rathdown County Council and Dun Laoghaire Harbour Company with media partnership from the Irish Times.
Cobh Next!
The celebrations will now be brought to Sonia’s hometown of Cobh on Sunday 20th of September to coincide with the unveiling of a life-size bronze statue of Ireland’s most famous female athlete.
