David McGlynn claims national marathon title in Dublin
Waterford A.C. athlete David McGlynn pictured at mile 17 of the Dublin Marathon. Alex Cunningham.
Waterford AC athlete David McGlynn claimed the Irish National Marathon title at the Dublin Marathon, producing a career-defining performance to finish in a time of 2:11:00.
McGlynn finished fifth overall in the field. American Daniel Mesfin crossed the tape in two hours and eight minutes, to win the international field.
McGlynn shaved more than four minutes off his previous personal best, which he ran last year in Dublin.
A methodical, disciplined pacing strategy characterised his performance.
His half-way split was recorded as 1:04:58, leaving him in 12th place overall and 4th Irishman.
At the 25k mark, he launched his assault on the field. First, he eased past DSD’s, Paul O’Donnell and Leevale’s, Ryan Creech. Soon after, it was 2024 national champion and former Irish record holder, Hiko Tonosa.
While the other Irishmen faded into obscurity, McGlynn held his pace with poise, picking through the international field.
By the 40k mark, he was in fifth, hot on the heels of American Teshome Mekonnen, who eventually finished five seconds ahead of McGlynn.
Speaking to the Waterford News & Star in the lead-up to the marathon, McGlynn said his goal was to place on the national podium and that he was approaching the race in the best shape of his career.
His victory will function as a crucial step towards an international debut over 42.2 kilometres.
The automatic qualifying time for the 2026 European Championships in Birmingham stands at 2:09:30. Athletes can also qualify through a points system provided they have recorded two strong marathon times (or one marathon and one half marathon) over the previous 18 months.
McGlynn said Dublin will serve as the first result he will bank towards the European Championships, with hopes that a strong half-marathon or marathon in the Spring will place him in prime qualifying position.
He also expressed the emotional impact of his achievement, commenting: "It's hard to put into words. It's a bit emotional when you see friends and loved ones on the course."
