An unforgettable day of sport unfolded at Tuesday’s Fota House Cross-Country Challenge, where more than 625 children from 22 Cork primary schools embraced the spirit of cross-country running in the stunning surroundings of Fota House & Gardens.

Organised by the newly established Great Island Athletics, the second edition of this now annual event delivered a thrilling 12-race programme, offering pupils from 1st to 6th Class the chance to compete both individually and as part of their school teams.

Team honours were claimed by Scoil an Spioraid Naoimh Cailíní and the boys from Bunscoil Rinn an Chabhlaigh, Cobh, whose victories will be proudly celebrated in their schools until the titles are contested again in 2026.

Among the standout individual performances:

• Conor Stephenson (Scoil Íosaef Naofa, Cobh) secured a home win for the host club.
• Molly Casey (Dungourney NS / St Catherine’s AC) delivered what many considered the performance of the day.
• Emily Donovan (Scoil an Spioraid Naoimh Cailíní) impressed with a dominant run, echoing her success from last year’s inaugural event.
• Fionn McGrath (Walterstown NS, Cobh) and Jack Ahern (Rathpeacon NS) shared a dramatic joint bronze in one of the day’s closest finishes.
• Charlie Cummins (Bunscoil Rinn an Chabhlaigh / Cork Track Club) added to his County Championship title with another gold, crossing the line in his signature sunglasses.

Adding to the excitement, Ireland’s greatest ever athlete, Sonia O’Sullivan, was on hand to cheer on the young runners, offering encouragement and inspiration to the next generation of Irish athletics stars.

The event was a true celebration of sport, community, and the joy of running. Delivered in partnership with Athletics Ireland and Cork County Council, and supported by the Irish Heritage Trust and Fota Wildlife Park, the course provided a perfect blend of challenge and charm for both newcomers and seasoned young athletes.

📸 Photographs by Morgan Treacy / INPHO