Albi, France – October 18–19, 2025

Team Ireland produced a series of strong and determined performances at the IAU 24-Hour World Championships held in Albi, France, over the weekend of October 18–19. The event attracted 366 athletes from 47 countries, with competition commencing at 10am on Saturday morning.

Conditions proved challenging from the outset, with high temperatures testing athletes throughout the opening hours. Despite the heat, all members of Team Ireland remained on the track for the full 24 hours, demonstrating exceptional endurance and commitment in representing their country on the international stage.

Men’s Results

Leading the men’s team, James O’Connor (Slaney AC) covered 219.194km to finish 104th overall, producing a consistent and disciplined performance in difficult conditions. Dave Andrews (Atlas Running) achieved a C standard, completing 211.694km for 133rd position and Jason Nichol (St Finbarr’s AC) finished with 188.777km, finishing 188th.

Women’s Results

In the women’s race, Lorraine McMahon (Wexford Marathon Club) led the Irish team home with an impressive total of 202.918km, placing 61st overall and achieving the International B standard. Anne Jennings (Dublin Bay RC) also delivered a strong and consistent performance, narrowly missing the B standard by less than 1,600 metres, finishing 72nd with 198.427km.

Masters Success

There was additional success for Jessie O’Connor, who achieved a C standard performance and came within 806 metres of the International B standard. O’Connor’s consistency throughout the 24 hours was rewarded with a bronze medal in the Masters M50 category, finishing just 180 metres ahead of fourth place following a tightly contested battle in the closing stages.

Team Support

The athletes were supported by a dedicated crew led by Team Manager John O’Regan (Le Chéile AC), with Physical Therapist Louis Byrne (Glendalough AC) and crew members Anthony Lee (Donadea AC) and Chris Colfer (Ferrybank AC) providing expert assistance throughout the event.

Summary of Results

AthleteClubPositionDistance (km)Notes

James O’Connor Slaney AC 104th 219.194

Dave Andrews Atlas Running 133rd 211.694 C standard

Jason Nichol St Finbarr’s AC 188th 188.777

Lorraine McMahon Wexford Marathon Club 61st 202.918 International B standard

Anne Jennings Dublin Bay RC 72nd 198.427 Just outside B standard

World Master’s 24hr Result

Jessie O’Connor. M50 bronze medal

Summary

All members of Team Ireland delivered committed performances across the 24-hour event, overcoming challenging conditions to complete the race and record strong distances against world-class opposition. Their efforts in Albi continue to demonstrate the depth and resilience of Irish ultra-distance running at World level. Thanks to Matthew Collins – Portmarnock AC for assistance leading into the race.

– John O’Regan