Advertisement For O'Reilly GlassAdvertisement For Smiths Of DroghedaAdvertisement For Arc Cinema
Monday, 30th June 2025

Drogheda and District athletes shine on track and roads at the weekend

Front Page

Tadhg Donnelly competing in the 2025 Dunshaughlin 10k.

Drogheda and District AC’s sprinting talent was on full display at the Irish Milers Club meeting this weekend at Morton Stadium, Dublin, with three club athletes delivering impressive performances in the highly competitive men’s 400 metres.

Leading the trio was Andrew Kelly, who burst out of the blocks with intent and set a blistering pace through the first 200 metres. Despite being reeled in by eventual winner Eoghan Buggy of St. Abban’s AC, Kelly dug deep to fend off a late surge from Éanna McElroy of Ennis Track Club, crossing the line in a superb 51.43 seconds.

Just behind him, Louis O’Shea demonstrated both grit and consistency as he held off Ciarán Dee of Leevale AC in a closely fought battle, clocking a strong 51.72 seconds. Completing the Drogheda line-up was Jimmy English, who ran a steady race to finish in 56.48 seconds, rounding off a successful day at Morton Stadium for the club’s 400m squad.

With these performances, the Drogheda men once again underscored their growing presence on the national sprinting stage.

There was plenty to cheer about for Drogheda & District AC on Friday, June 27th, as 23-year-old Tadhg Donnelly delivered a commanding performance to win the prestigious St Coca’s AC 5K in Kilcock, Co Kildare.

In a highly competitive field, Donnelly crossed the finish line first in a blistering time of 14 minutes and 4 seconds, finishing ten seconds ahead of his nearest rival, Daniel Canala. Remarkably, this wasn’t even a personal best for the in-form runner, suggesting that even greater achievements are just around the corner. All eyes now turn to the upcoming Morton Games on Friday, July 11th, where Tadhg is widely tipped to break new ground.

Andew kelly, Louis O'Shea and Jimmy English at the 400m at Morton Stadium 

Paul Smith also impressed, clocking a solid 15:53, continuing a fine run of form. It was especially heartening to see Anne Isgro back in action, completing the course in 21:16. Conor Cooney and Olivia Reilly also represented Drogheda & District AC with pride, finishing in 24:48 and 24:51 respectively. 

Spirits were high as Drogheda & Distric AC took to the roads on Thursday evening for the Clonee 10K, hosted by Dunboyne AC. With 527 finishers braving the elements, it was a true testament to the dedication and camaraderie that defines local running.

The event, held on 26 June, was impeccably organised, featuring a reasonably flat course ideal for fast times — though the weather had other plans. The rain began shortly after the race kicked off and kept both runners and brave supporters soaked throughout the evening. Special thanks are due to the stewards and volunteers, who stood patiently in the downpour to keep everything running smoothly.

Post-race hospitality didn’t disappoint, with hot drinks and delicious pizza served at the Grasshopper Inn — a welcome reward after 10 tough kilometres.

Our club had a great turnout, with several strong performances. Aedan Prone led the charge with an impressive time of 36:14, followed by Joe Hammel (39:44), Thomas Breen (40:04), and Karl Cooney (48:08). Nuala Reilly not only broke the 50-minute mark with a time of 49:53, but also took first place in her category — a fantastic achievement.

Other finishers included David Cooney (50:06), Karen O'Connell (50:11), Seamus Roe (50:56), Mike Staunton (51:07), Margaret Carroll (51:44), and Claire Smith, who crossed the line in 1:02:43.

Lastly Liam Mulligan performed very well in the Phoenix Park on Sunday at the Biofreeze Athletics Ireland Race Series 5 mile finishing in 11th place with a fine time of 25 minutes 42 seconds.

Advertisement For O'Reilly Glass
Advertisement For Smiths Of Drogheda
Advertisement For Arc Cinema