Race report: Irwin Cup Cross Country. The penultimate race in the current Clonliffe Harriers Grand Prix Series, the Irwin Cup, took place on Saturday 8th November 2025 at the Trinity Sports Ground. The restless rain of recent days gave way to ideal sunny autumn weather. The race was started by Maurice Ahern and a total of 40 runners competed.
Considering all the rain in recent days, the course conditions were excellent. Many thanks to the Trinity Grounds Staff who trimmed out a track that went through the best parts of the outer boundary.
From the start, three runners took out the early pace, James Dunne, Ray Dunne and Mick McMahon fresh from his PB performance in the Dublin Marathon. As the race progressed, James Dunne took a commanding lead and came home first 0:19:44. Ray Dunne was second in 0:20:02 with Mick McMahon in third in 0:20:40.
Rachel McFadden had another fine performance coming home in fifth place in 00:22:05. Paula Prunty was second woman home in 0:24:57 while Maura Matthews was third in 0:25:17.
Results:
Grand Prix Competition
In the exciting Grand Prix competition, Pat Devitt triumphed on this occasion and won the Irwin Cup. In second place was Paula Prunty. In third place was Yvonne McDonagh. Congratulations to all three.
- Pat Devitt – 66 points
- Paula Prunty – 65 points
- Yvonne McDonagh – 64 points
Race Sponsor
Many thanks to David O’Sullivan, the sponsor of this year’s race. Maurice Ahern presented the prizes on behalf of David.
A special word of thanks to those who officiated on the day.
Next Grand Prix Race
The 2025 Series will come to an end when the final race, the Horan Cup, takes place on Saturday 22 November 2025 also in Trinity Sports Ground at 9:30am.