Thousands lined up in Phoenix Park last Sunday (20th of September) for the sold-out Irish Life Dublin Half Marathon.
Runners enjoyed the atmosphere of nervous excitement in one of Dublin’s most iconic settings, making the 2026 Irish Life Dublin Race Series a memorable race day.
Dublin athlete James Hyland (Raheny Shamrock A.C.) produced an outstanding performance, winning the men's race in 68:52, while also claiming the Dublin Half Marathon Road Championship title, which was incorporated into this year's event.
Marking his first Irish Life Dublin Race Series podium finish, Hyland demonstrated impressive strength over the closing stages, breaking clear in the final mile to secure victory by 16 seconds.
“There were four of us together until the last mile and then I kicked on a bit and closed hard,” said Hyland.
The 24-year-old now turns his attention to making his marathon debut at the Irish Life Dublin Marathon in October.
“I’m doing my first marathon in Dublin this October. It was great to be part of this and to win it. I figured I’d use it to get used to some of the course for the Marathon,” added Hyland.
The women’s race saw pre-race favourite Meghan Ryan (Dundrum South Dublin A.C.) live up to expectations with an impressive victory of 76:46.
The Rathfarnham athlete raced clear of the field to secure both the overall title and the Women’s Dublin Half Marathon Road Championship. She crossed the finish line more than a minute ahead of clubmate Ruby Wall, who recorded 77:51.
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Title sponsor Irish Life welcomed runners across the finish line on Furze Road with recovery services provided by Irish Life Health, alongside a range of post-race activities for participants. Throughout the Irish Life Dublin Race Series, milestone finishers have been recognised with special prizes, and today's race was no exception, with runners finishing 250th, 500th, 1000th and 2026th each receiving a €50 voucher.
With the final event of the Irish Life Dublin Race Series now complete, attention turns to the Irish Life Dublin Marathon on Sunday, 25 October.
