Michael Brady from Raheny Shamrocks and Nicola Casey from Sligo have won this year’s full WLR Waterford Viking Marathon.

On a truly momentous day in Waterford, over 4,500 runners from all over the world took to the streets while thousands-strong crowds roared them on at the start and finish lines.

The day saw full and half marathons get underway, as well as a 10km event and Ireland’s first ever disability-friendly run.

Brady said: “It was tough enough, a good course – but we had the wind and it was downhill on the way back. It was really well organised and well supported. I’m from Swords and I’m running seriously with 3-4 years and this is my second marathon win. The atmosphere today was amazing, I’m looking forward to celebrating tonight. I’m proud and hopefully I’ll be back next year to defend the title. This was my sixth marathon – and it was probably one of my favourites.”

Casey added: “It’s my first time in Waterford. It wasn’t too traumatising! I’m shocked that I won, all the support was amazing coming down to the finish line. I’m looking forward to a drink and putting the feet up for a little bit.”

In the half marathon, last year’s full marathon winner Alexander Wallace was first home, while Dunmore East woman Una O’Brien was the first woman at the finish line.

Wallace said: “I ran a wee bit longer last year! It was warm, there was a lot of wind and there was no escaping it – it made it tough, but we got the benefit of it on the way back in with the tailw wind and the last six miles were really enjoyable.”

O’Brien added: “I was just absolutely wrecked getting over the line. I ran so much faster than I’ve ever done before – it was so much down the pacer who got me there! The conditions were really good and it was a nice race. I didn’t expect to win it at all.”

It was a Ferrybank 1-2-3 in the men’s 10km run as Andrew Connick was the first man over the line, while Emma Leahy took the female title.

Connick was joined by teammates Craig O’Brien and Andrew Roche – and they were delighted with how the day went.

“The route was good – it was tough because we had a headwind the whole way out the Quay! That was the hardest part but once we turned onto the Greenway coming back in, it was downhill and the second part of the race was much easier.”

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