Munster Medals first for Local Running Club

By Karen Dolman, Club Secretary

Carrigaline AC celebrated a historic achievement as members Niamh Foy, Caroline Lynch and Denise Tagg were presented with Munster Medals for their age-category performances at the 2025 Limerick Marathon, the first Munster medals in the club’s history.

Club Chairperson Jim O'Byrne, who made the presentation, said the medals reflect not only individual success but also the club’s supportive culture and steady development. Adult membership has grown significantly in recent years, complementing the long-established juvenile section, which has also enjoyed a very successful year.

Karen Dolman: Club Secretary & Jim O'Byrne: Club Chairperson, with Club members: Niamh Foy, Caroline Lynch & Denise Tag, who received Munster Provincial Medals in the Female 45 Team Event Category of the Limerick Marathon (first for the club), held on the 4th May 2025, Carrigaline Court Hotel, 17th December 2025. Photo Siobhán Russell

Increased visibility through social media and initiatives such as the Couch to 5K programme have expanded the club’s reach, with consistent race participation in Ireland and overseas across distances from 5k to ultra marathons. In 2025 alone, over 40 members took part in the Cork City Marathon and 20 in the Dublin Marathon, where Peter Moreland, Jim O'Byrne and Elliot O'Keeffe all recorded impressive sub-3-hour finishes. Our first-time marathoners were also strongly supported, both along the route and via the club WhatsApp group.

“These medals show what’s possible when people support each other and stay dedicated,” said Jim. “Niamh, Denise and Caroline are fantastic examples of our club spirit.”

Caroline and Denise both joined the club over a year ago with both saying it gives them time out for themselves.  Caroline finds running really helps her mood and fitness levels, whereas Denise likes to set challenges and goals towards events and joins with friends on her long runs.

Niamh had a little running experience and joined Carrigaline AC’s Couch to 5K programme in 2023, which had been introduced to the club by Jim who was Head Coach at the time. Niamh "stayed for the chats & accountability and somehow 'accidentally' has run three marathons since!  The club support is second to none”

This presentation marked a proud moment for the club and an exciting new chapter, driven by the strong support of club members and the blue and yellow wave sweeping across races as participation and success grow at every level