The Dublin Marathon is more than just a race; it’s a celebration of determination, endurance, and personal triumph. This year, among the thousands of runners taking on the 26.2-mile challenge, three remarkable women stand out, each with their own unique story. From a 1000th marathon milestone, these women are running for more than just a finish line—they’re pushing boundaries, overcoming obstacles, and inspiring others along the way. Here’s a look at their journeys to the Dublin Marathon and what motivates them to go the distance.
Mary Hickey is a true icon in the spirit of Women’s sport, having run every Dublin Marathon since its inception in 1980. Her unwavering dedication over the decades has earned her a special place in the marathon’s history, as she’s the only woman to have completed all races since it’s beginning. Mary’s journey is a testament to resilience, perseverance, and passion for the sport. As a trailblazer for women in athletics, she has shown that there are no limits to what women can achieve, inspiring countless others to lace up their shoes and pursue their goals. For Mary, the Dublin Marathon is more than just a race—it’s a lifelong commitment to pushing boundaries and setting an example for generations of women athletes.
“There was only 40 women in the first one”. She reflects to the 2024 Dublin Marathon, 45 years later. “Now, that I am the only woman to have done them all, it’s hard to not turn up. For the women’s sake. That’s the only reason that I’m still running is just to try and keep this record going for another little while”.
Mary is certainly not a woman to turn away from adversity or hard-work. When we asked her advice on what to do when the marathon gets tough, she was super positive and emphasized on encouraging those around you! Mary said “It’s a good few hours of pain and agony, but it’s also uplifting and inspiring”. Her message to anyone participating in the Dublin Marathon this weekend is, “it’s mind over matter” and to “keep ploughing on!”.
Our next athlete we got to chat with was, Ann-Marie McGlynn, the reigning national champion! She is set to defend her title at the 2024 Irish Life Dublin Marathon on October 27. McGlynn, originally from Offaly and currently based in Strabane, represents Letterkenny Athletic Club. Last year, she was the first Irish woman to cross the finish line, clocking an impressive 2:34:13, earning her the Irish national marathon title. This year, she aims to replicate that success as she takes on a competitive field of international and national athletes.
McGlynn has expressed her strong connection to the Dublin Marathon, citing her passion for the event and her determination to hold onto her crown. She has been training intensively for the race, drawing motivation from her family and the Letterkenny running community, which has been an essential part of her career .
While speaking with Anne-Marie, it was clear that she has a relentless and determined mindset when racing the 26.2 miles. Her family is certainly a huge motivator for her. She said “Once I cross that finish line healthy, happy, and I see my family, I’ll be happy. Regardless of what the outcome is”. Anne-Marie is a huge believer in mantras and positive thinking. “It sounds a bit hippy-dippy, I don’t know, it’s gotten me this far!”. Her mentality has most definitely elevated her running careers to incredible heights – we’ll definitely be taking a page out of Anne-Marie’s book!
She’s recently launched a one-to-one coaching business, and is more than happy to help others in their training and mindset! “I probably share too much to be honest! I’ve no more secrets!”, Anne-Marie jokes when chatting about her coaching business. “I love sharing and giving my advice. And if people take one or two nuggets from it, isn’t that great?”.
The third athlete we caught up with ahead of the 2024 Dublin Marathon is , Collette O’Hagan. Collette is a 75-year-old grandmother from Dundalk, is set to achieve an extraordinary milestone by running her 1,000th marathon. Her journey began in 1990 at the very same marathon, and since then, she has participated in races worldwide, becoming a beloved figure in the Irish running community. Known for her dedication, O’Hagan runs daily and embraces the physical and mental challenges of marathon running, often saying she relishes the struggle of pushing through difficult miles.
O’Hagan has faced and overcome setbacks, including a recent foot injury that nearly derailed her path to the 1,000th marathon. Thankfully, with treatment, she’s back on course and ready to celebrate her achievement in Dublin, supported by family, friends, and her running group, North East Runners. This milestone is not just a personal triumph but a charitable endeavour, as she is raising funds for the North Louth Hospice and Féileacáin, an organization supporting families dealing with perinatal loss.
Even Collette is suprised that she has reached her 1000th marathon milestone. “I can’t actually believe I’m running my 1000th marathon. I’ll wake up maybe the next day after and go yeah that was my 1000th!” she said with a glowing smile on her face! She started her marathon streak in 1990 at the Dublin Marathon. So she is making it full circle doing her 1000th back in Dublin again.
Collette is filled with positivity and encouragement to anyone who has an aspiration to run, no matter what the distance may be! She explains how running has helped her, not only physically but mentally. “When I am running, I can sort out many of my problems, I can think things out better when I’m out on the road. Out on my own, it’s my space.” She goes on to say, “No matter who you are, there’s no criteria for age, size, or what shape you’re in. Running is for everybody”.
These three women are incredible to say the very least! We are so excited to cheer them on this weekend at the Dublin Marathon and are feeling very inspired to get our own runners on and hit the road!
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