The Clonliffe Grand Prix Series continued with the holding of the Michael Murphy Memorial Cup in North County Dublin on Thursday evening 21 May 2026. This Memorial race commemorates one of Clonliffe’s outstanding young athletes whose life was cut short tragically in the United States in the early 1980s. The weather on the night proved ideal for running.
The race attracted a strong field of 56 athletes. Caroline Daly was first off at scratch on the two-lap course. The final athletes, Ray Dunne and Mark Glitz had to wait for 17 minutes 30 seconds before they could start.
At the end of the first lap, the race was still wide open, the hallmark of a well-crafted handicap. There was considerable speculation among the race officials as to who would be first. On 43 minutes the flashing light of the lead bike came into view manned by Fergus Wheatley. It took a few seconds to ascertain who was in the lead, then it became clear; the clear leader was Dave Doran. This was a well-deserved win for Dave. In second place with a gutsy run was Fionnuala Smith. While in third place putting in a strong performance was Pat Devitt. Congratulations to all three.
Race Sponsor
Many thanks to David O’Sullivan, the sponsor of this year’s Mick Murphy Memorial 5 Mile.
Grand Prix Result – Top 3 prize winners
- Dave Doran – 66 points
- Fionnuala Smith – 65 points
- Pat Devitt – 64 points
Fastest times on the night
Matt Glitz – 0:27:51
Rachel McFadden – 0:31:54
Results:
Prize giving
The post-race prize giving took place at Malahide Cricket Clubhouse. Clonliffe Harriers were warmly welcomed by the President of Malahide Cricket Club John Morgan and his wife Anna. John noted that Clonliffe has been coming to the Cricket Club for 44 years for the post-race reception for the Mick Murphy 5 mile. John said Clonliffe are always welcome and he looks forward to welcoming Clonliffe to their proposed new Clubhouse at a future date.
Dave, Fionnuala and Pat were presented with their prizes by race sponsor David O’Sullivan. Dave was also presented with the Michael Murphy Memorial Cup.
Many thanks to those who officiated at the start and finish, those who marshaled the course and to Pamela Cooper and Gladys Cooper for organising the welcome post-race refreshments.
A special word of thanks to the President John Morgan and the members and staff of Malahide Cricket Club for the wonderful welcome Clonliffe Harriers received.
Next race – 10km Bonass Trophy
The Bonass Trophy 10,000m race on the track in Morton Stadium takes place on Thursday 11 June 2026. Time to be confirmed.
This will be followed by the 5000m Middlesex Cup on Thursday 25th June 2026 n Morton Stadium.