Ray and Kathleen Murphy with the winners of the Ashling Murphy 4 Mile Race in Tullamore last year. L-R: Ray Murphy; Orlaith Flanagan (Mullingar Harriers, 3rd in women's race); Sarah Flanagan (Tullamore Harriers AC, 2nd); Hannah Steeds (Leevale AC, women's winner); Sean Tobin (Clonmel AC, men's winner); Eanna O'Bradaigh (DSD AC, 2nd); Kevin Minnock (Tullamore Harriers, 3rd); and Kathleen Murphy. Photo: Ger Rogers

Fourth Ashling Murphy memorial race set for this Sunday

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The countdown continues to the 2026 edition of the Ashling Murphy 4 Mile Road Race, which will take place tomorrow (Sunday), May 17.

The race was launched recently, and it is all systems go now to ensure a successful event once again. Now in its fourth year, the race has quickly established itself as one of Ireland’s premier 4-mile road races, growing in popularity year after year.

Offaly Athletics proudly supports the Ashling Murphy Memorial Fund, an organisation established to continue Ashling’s legacy through Irish music and the many passions she loved. The event is sponsored by Centra and continues to receive tremendous support from local businesses in Tullamore and surrounding areas.

The first female finisher will once again be presented with the Ashling Murphy Perpetual Trophy by Ashling’s parents, Ray and Kathleen Murphy.

The race also forms part of two major race series - the Offaly Athletics Endurance Series – Race 1 of 4 races hosted by Offaly athletic clubs and the Peugeot Race Series – Round 3 of 10 races. There will be a guaranteed €2,000 in additional prizes at each event sponsored by Peugeot. Registration is available through the Pop Up Races website.

The course starts in the centre of Tullamore, with the race following a single loop around the town before finishing back in the town centre with a fast downhill run to the line.

The race is renowned for its atmosphere, with music along the course and incredible community support throughout the morning. Approximately 3,000 spectators line the streets each year to cheer on participants.

The race is open to participants aged 16 and over only. U16s may take part in the walk when accompanied by an adult. Walkers will begin 15 minutes before the runners.

Following the Ashling Murphy race, the Ballyskenach 5K will take place on Friday, May 29, with the Naomh Mhuire 5K race taking place in Daingean on Friday, June 12.

Fixtures

Sunday, May 17: Ashling Murphy 4 Mile- Offaly 4 Mile Championships, Friday, May 29: Ballyskenach 5K. Friday, June 12: Naomh Mhuire 5K. Sunday, June 21: Jack Cox 10K (Kilcormac). Sunday, July 5: Clara AC 5K. Sunday, July 12: Frank Kilrane 10 Mile (Edenderry). Thursday, July 23: Offaly Senior & Master Track & Field Championships. Sunday, August 16: Birr 5K. Saturday, August 29: BnM Tullamore Harriers Half Marathon.

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