By Simon Gregory
Photos: Tony Campbell and Richie Hatch
The streets of Drogheda were full of life on Sunday morning as the Cathedral Financial Consultants Drogheda 10k returned for 2026. There was a noticeable buzz around the town from early on, and it only grew as the morning went on. By the time the race got underway, more than 1,500 runners from near and far had gathered for another sold-out event that continues to build momentum year after year.
In the lead-up to race day, a huge effort from volunteers brought the event to life. From early morning, teams from Drogheda & District AC were out across the town setting up barriers, preparing water stations, organising registration, unboxing and arranging the medals, and putting the final touches in place. Behind the scenes, the ever-reliable “Mrs. Doyle’s” catering team were just as busy up tables and carefully plating up sandwiches, cakes, and refreshments that would be very welcome for the many runners returning after their efforts. What stands out each year is how the event reaches beyond the club itself, local businesses opening their doors early, cafés and shops welcoming runners and spectators, and residents embracing the buzz that comes with it.
Bit by bit, Drogheda transformed; ordinary streets became part of a course, and the everyday rhythm of the town gave way to something more purposeful, more alive.
The Drogheda 10k has become more than just a race. It’s one of those days where the whole town gets involved. You see it in the crowds along the route, the local businesses opening early, and the volunteers working behind the scenes. It’s something people take pride in, and that shows.
Runners arrived ready after months of consistent training. Long runs in wind and rain, early mornings, missed evenings everything pointed towards this one morning where all that effort would finally be tested.
By race time, the atmosphere was electric. Clubs travelled from north, south and west, joining a strong local field, while spectators lined the course offering constant encouragement. The Drogheda 10k is known for being a fair but testing route, with the climb towards Sheephouse always proving decisive.
At the front, the pace was sharp from the outset. Sergii Raschupkin of Drogheda & District AC made his intentions clear early, pushing on and taking control of the race. Running with strength and confidence, he crossed the line in 32:26 to take a well-earned victory. Since joining the club, Raschupkin has made a big impression, consistently competing at the front of races and bringing a strong competitive edge.
Shea O’Donnell of Ace AC followed in second place in 33:37 after a determined run, while Brian Martin ensured there was local representation on the podium, finishing third in 33:47 and continuing his excellent run of form this season.
The women’s race was equally competitive. Fiona Roche of Raheny Shamrock A.C. once again showed her experience on the Drogheda course, taking first place in 36:40, a result that adds to her strong record at this event over the years. Close behind was Sinead McDonald of Glenmore A.C. in 36:45, while Cheryl Campbell of Sam Mulroy Fitness completed the top three in 39:17.
Photo: Fiona Roach and family
The event also hosted the Louth 10k Road Championships, adding further significance to an already competitive day. In the men’s team competition, Drogheda & District AC secured first place with an outstanding collective performance. Sergii Raschupkin led the team home in 32:26, followed by Brian Martin in 33:47 and Colin Dyas in 34:49, while Andy McDonnell completed the scoring four with 36:27. With all four athletes finishing inside the top 11 overall, it was a dominant display that highlighted the strength and depth within the club.
Boyne AC claimed second place in the men’s competition, with Mark Dowling (45:36), Keith Smyth (46:44), Alan Fay (54:13), and Brian Brodigan (55:21) combining well on a demanding course.
In the women’s team event, Boyne AC took top honours with a strong and consistent showing. Catherine Tiernan led their team home in 47:28, supported by Katie Munster (55:18), Nicola Stafford (55:27), and Louise Fagan (56:35). Drogheda & District AC followed in second place, with Mia Jacobs producing one of the standout performances of the day, finishing fourth overall in 40:10. She was supported by Nuala Reilly (49:35), Louise McCann (61:10), and Aisling Reilly (62:03), combining to secure silver in the championship standings.
While the winners and team results highlight the competitive edge of the event, the real heart of the Drogheda 10k lies right throughout the field. Every runner had their own goal—whether chasing a personal best, completing a first 10k, or simply soaking in the occasion. The encouragement along the route and the sense of achievement at the finish line created an atmosphere that stayed with runners long after they crossed it.
As the final runners made their way through the finish and the last medals were handed out, there was a real sense that the day had gone well. The Cathedral Financial Consultants Drogheda 10k continues to grow, but it hasn’t lost what makes it work—strong volunteer support, local backing, and a community that gets behind it.
The organisers also wish to acknowledge and thank this year’s sponsors, whose continued support plays a vital role in the success of the event: Cathedral Financial Consultants, Irish Life, Capital Masters, Drogheda Credit Union, Peggy Moores, Specsavers, Love Drogheda, EBS, McKevitt King Architects, Boylan & Co Accountants, Sam Mulroy Fitness, P Townley & Sons Funeral Directors, Barney Flannery Osteopaths, Fyffes, Last Lap Cafe, Optimum Nutrition, Oxigen, and Moorland Cafe.
Drogheda & District AC would also like to extend a sincere thank you to the many volunteers, to all of the sponsors, to the clubs who travelled from near and far to take part, and to the local community for getting behind the event. Their continued support plays a vital role in helping to bring athletics to the heart of the community.
With another successful year wrapped up, attention will no doubt turn to 2027. For now though, Drogheda can look back on a day that delivered once again.
