Reynolds and Henry the winners in Gowran 8 race

Ciaran Reynolds and Rachel Henry emerged as the winners of the Gowran 8 race for 2026 recently.

The Noel Gowran 8 Mile is one of Tullamore Harriers' most treasured club races, held each year in memory of founding member Noel Gowran, who passed away in 2016. Noel was not only a visionary founder but also an outstanding athlete whose dedication, determination and strong work ethic will always be remembered.

Regarded as one of Ireland's finest distance runners, Noel won numerous national and provincial titles, with one of his greatest achievements being the first Irishman to run a marathon in under 2 hours 30 minutes.

The Gowran 8 was founded by Noel himself and was first contested in 1980, making this year's race the 46th edition. The Gowran trophies are awarded to the fastest man and woman who have never previously won the title.

Each summer, club members gather to honour Noel's legacy by taking on the challenging eight-mile course. On June 30, Tullamore Harriers Chairman Adrian Curley welcomed Noel's son Brian, and grandchildren Rian and Freya, along with the 35 athletes, officials and supporters to the start line in the club stadium.

Adrian emphasised the importance of supporting the club races that honour our founding members and paid a fitting tribute to Noel. Noel's granddaughter Freya, herself a juvenile member of Tullamore Harriers, then blew the whistle to officially start the race.

After completing approximately 300 metres on the track, the athletes left the stadium and settled into the eight-mile route.

From the start, Kevin Minnock opened a comfortable lead and was first across the finish line in an impressive 43:50. Jonathan Dunne finished second in 46:23, with Michael O'Brien third in 48:28.

As all three athletes had previously won the Gowran Trophy, the title passed to the next eligible finisher. Ciaran Reynolds therefore claimed the 2026 Gowran Trophy in an excellent time of 49:21. Nigel Cunningham was second novice man, with Gary Whittle taking third novice honours.

In the ladies' race, Rachel Henry was the first woman home in 56:53. As a first-time winner, she claimed the 2026 Gowran Trophy.

Rita Daly Ravenhill and Michelle Mullaney were the next women to finish, but as both had previously won the title, Emer Rigney was awarded second novice and Mary Galvin third novice. Rita received the award for fastest lady.

The club congratulates everyone who took part, volunteered and supported another memorable running of this special club event.