Jeremiah Sheehan and Caroline Finn produced commanding performances to claim victory at the Banteer 5 Mile hosted by Mt. Hillary Athletic Club on Sunday, March 8th.
The race marked the opening round of the 2026 Rebel Diamond League, attracting a strong field with close to 300 runners lining up in Banteer.
Sheehan claimed the men’s title in 25:43, well ahead of Michael Dullea (27:01) and Darren Coleman (27:48). In the women’s race, Finn led Leevale AC teammates, finishing in 29:24, followed by Niamh Moore (29:28) and Breeda McGinn (31:36).
Race director Shane Riordain praised the teamwork behind the event:
“There was a big effort from everyone involved. There are seven or eight on the committee and we had pacers for the first time this year, with nine people doing that. People getting all the cones, guards involved, helping out in that role. There were months of build-up to make the race happen.”
Riordain also highlighted the positive start to the Rebel Diamond League series:
“Great numbers. In terms of the Diamond League, we work with the other races, hopefully we get lots of people out. People love the flat course and great community spirit. Great running community event as well as a local event.”
Looking ahead, Riordain is optimistic about the next event:
“Dromohane more than capable of doing a great job.”