Ashling Murphy memorial race launched as countdown begins
Offaly Athletics recently launched the 2025 Ashling Murphy 4 Mile Road Race.
To mark the occasion, Ashling’s parents, Ray and Kathleen Murphy, were joined by representatives from Offaly’s athletic clubs and Councillor Peter Ormond.
The fourth edition of the race will take place on Sunday (May 11), starting and finishing in the heart of Tullamore town centre. Walkers will begin at 9.45am, with runners setting off at 10am. The fast, looped course, featuring a downhill finish, promises a great opportunity for participants to achieve personal best times.
A highlight of the day will be the presentation of the Ashling Murphy Perpetual Trophy to the first female finisher, a special moment that will be led by Ashling’s parents.
Now a customary race tradition, Ashling’s father Ray will once again lead the participants from the start line on his motorbike, accompanied by members of the Camcor Riders.
The event continues to grow in popularity, with over 2,000 spectators attending last year and even more expected this year. Due to the generous support of Centra, all finishers will receive an impressive goody bag on the day.
The race marks the opening of the Offaly Athletics Endurance Series and Round 3 of the Peugeot Race Series. It also serves as the Offaly Junior, Senior, and Master 4 Mile Championships.
Additional races in the Offaly Endurance Series are the Jack Cox 10km (Kilcormac Killoughey AC), the Frank Kilrane 10 Mile (Edenderry AC) and the Bord na Móna Tullamore Harriers Half Marathon.
The remaining races in the Peugeot Race Series are the Bob Heffernan 5km (Enfield), Dunshaughlin 10km, Roscommon 10 Mile, Edenderry 10 Mile, Youghal AC Half Marathon, Cork City 10K and Charleville International Half Marathon.
Peugeot has also introduced a €2,000 bonus prize pot for this year's race. Both the top male and female finishers will receive an extra €500, and a brand new €1,000 prize will also be awarded to the top mixed team of six runners (three men and three women).
In addition to the Perpetual Trophy, there will be raceday prizes for the first, second and third male and female finishers. First finishers in the O40, O45, O50, O60, and O70 age categories (both male and female) will also receive prizes.
Online registration for this year's event is currently open at https://www.https://www.popupraces.ie/race/ashling-murphy-4-mile-road-race-2025/ and will close tomorrow, Wednesday, May 7.
Offaly Athletics extends its thanks to all who are helping bring this special event to life once again especially the Offaly County Council, An Garda Síochána Laois/Offaly and the many volunteers who give of their time on the day.