Analog Devices Cork City Marathon 2026: Over 12,300 Cross The Finish Line In Record-Breaking Day For Cork

More than 12,300 runners, walkers and wheelchair users took part in the 2026 Analog Devices Cork City Marathon today, as Cork city centre came alive with sport, community spirit and celebration. An estimated 25,000 spectators lined the streets to cheer on participants across the marathon, half marathon and 10K events.

Melissah Gibson and Stephen McAuley claimed the top prizes in the full marathon. McAuley won the men's race in a time of 2:22:42, while Gibson secured the women's title in 2:40:41, adding the Cork crown to her recent victory at the Edinburgh Marathon. A total of 3,000 runners completed the full 26.2 miles.

Second in the men's marathon went to Chris Jeuken of Derg A.C. in 2:24:20, with Wayne Waldron third in 2:26:22. In the women's race, Andrea Aza Villamor of Glanmire A.C. finished second in 2:48:05, ahead of April Quinn of Togher A.C. in 2:56:01.

This year's event also hosted the 2026 Half Marathon National Championships, with 5,000 participants taking part in that race. Cork's own Ryan Creech of Leevale A.C. claimed the men's national title in front of a home crowd, crossing the line in 1:04:51.

Creech said: "National Championships don't come to Cork as often as you think so this is really special to win at home. It's such a well organised event and I'm delighted to have my family here today."

Heather Murphy of St Michael's A.C. won the women's half marathon championship in 1:15:11, with Murphy saying:

"The atmosphere is amazing, the support is incredible, what a day!"

Jake O'Regan of St John's A.C. finished second in the men's championship race in 1:05:38, followed by John Travers of Donore Harriers A.C. in 1:06:54. Hannah Steeds of Leevale A.C. took second in the women's championship in 1:16:46, with Fionnuala Ross of Armagh A.C. third in 1:17:02.

In the 10K, which attracted 4,300 participants, Ibrahim Samow won the men's race in 30:58 and Niamh Allen took the women's title in 32:14. Allen, winner of the 2025 half marathon, was in impressive form on home turf.

Samow said:

"The conditions were great, a flat course and perfect weather."

Allen added:

"I love coming out running in Cork City. I went to UCC, so running down Western Road was incredible."

Niall Shanahan finished second in the men's 10K in 31:36, ahead of David Carter in 31:44. Sinead O'Connor was second in the women's race in 35:28, with Katja Fischer third in 37:14.

One of the most touching elements of the day saw more than 200 family members and friends of Ellen Cassidy take part in her memory, including her parents and siblings. Thousands of spectators turned out in yellow and waved yellow flags in her honour, with yellow being Ellen's favourite colour.

The 2026 event also marked a significant milestone with a new city-centre start and finish on Grand Parade, designed to improve safety, increase capacity and enhance the race-day experience for participants and spectators alike.

Race Director Eamon Hayes said:

"On behalf of the entire Analog Devices Cork City Marathon team, Cork City Council and our sponsors Analog Devices, I want to extend a sincere thank you to everyone who made this year's event possible.

To the thousands of runners, joggers, walkers and wheelchair users who took part, whether you were chasing a personal best, running for a cause or simply aiming to cross the finish line, your determination and spirit were clear to see right across the city.

We are equally grateful to the people of Cork, who once again came out in force to support participants and create the atmosphere that makes this event so special. That sense of encouragement and community is what defines the Analog Devices Cork City Marathon.

Our thanks also go to our title sponsor Analog Devices, Inc. (ADI), our stakeholders, sponsors, the emergency services, Gardaí, medical teams, stewards and the many volunteers who worked to deliver the event. It is a collective effort, and one we are hugely proud of.

One of the most meaningful aspects of the marathon is the impact it has beyond race day. Thousands of participants have raised funds for causes close to their hearts under the banner of #YourRaceTheirHope, and that generosity continues to grow year on year. It is a powerful reminder of what this event represents for so many people."

Full race results are available at analogdevicescorkcitymarathon.ie.