Adventurous, aspirational and downright amazing. There have been so many incredible achievements by men and women in the Irish outdoor community this year. We put a call out to you, our readers to send us your nominations and you certainly did not disappoint! Let’s dive into the amazing nominees that you, our audience have the difficult task of choosing a winner from. Who will be crowned the Outsider.ie Audience Choice Award Winner for 2024? You decide!
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We were blown away by the quality and quantity of the nominations we received this year. So, grab your device and prepare to choose your Audience Choice Award winner out these incredible nominees from Salewa Man Of The Year, Sport Ireland Woman Of The Year, Craghoppers Most Inspiring and the Sustainable Tourism Network Most Devoted to The Outdoor Scene categories.
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We can’t wait to celebrate with you and shine a spotlight on another incredible year for the Irish adventure scene!
Ger Copeland
Ger Copeland is a talented runner with over 300 marathons to his name. But his performance at the 2024 Dublin Marathon was his most incredible yet – as he raced despite suffering three brain haemorrhages and a stroke earlier this year, following a skiing accident.
Ger (46) – from Howth in County Dublin – was last nominated for an Outsider award 10 years ago when he ran 10 marathons in five days. And his inspirational story of triumph over adversity has seen him nominated again.
When a skiing accident left him with an artery dissection, Ger had to learn to eat, swallow and walk again. But he worked tirelessly to regain his mobility and, before long, his resilience and sheer determination saw him resume his beloved running again.
He was given the Lord Mayor’s Medal at the Dublin Marathon for the strength and tenacity he’s shown during his rehab but also for his work coaching and mentoring fellow runners of all ages and abilities at the Dublin Bay Running Club, which he founded.
“The outpouring of support for Ger’s nomination reflects the profound impact he has had on the running community, serving as an inspiration and source of encouragement to many,” said the Lord Mayor of Dublin, James Geoghegan.
Despite what he’s been through this year, Ger still managed to finish in the top 6% of the race, recording a time of 3:06, which most regular runners would be extremely proud of.
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Ralph Mills
In tribute to his “wonderful” daughter Ella, Ralph Mills took on the incredibly tough physical challenge of running a marathon in a swimming pool this year, to raise money for the Kevin Bell Repatriation Trust (KBRT).
Ralph (55) – who lives in Clontarf, Dublin – wanted to honour his daughter Ella, who died in a kayaking accident in the US, in a remarkable way. “She was one of the most wonderful people I’d had the privilege to know, so if something was being done in her name, it had to be spectacular.”
The idea of running in water also felt fitting to him. “Making forward progress against the resistance of water is almost an allegory for the struggle of coping with grief,” he says, adding that the extreme nature of the event also gave him focus at a time when he needed it most. “It became my Everest. And in practical terms, a never-before-attempted World Record is a stronger hook for a fundraising effort than, say, a gentle hike.”
Ralph trained for eight months, covering over 450km in the pool, so he was confident he’d have the stamina to see it through, but after nine hours his knee swelled up like a rugby ball which his physio had to re-strap every two hours. “Adrenaline is a fabulous medicine for pain,” he says, while he found the love and support of his army of volunteers life-affirming.
Why did he want to raise funds for KBRT? “Over the last decade, they have helped over 1,600 people negotiate the harrowing process of bringing their loved ones’ bodies back to Ireland from abroad after a tragic death. We didn’t need to avail of their services to bring Ella home, but the difficulties we encountered in doing so left us with a deep appreciation for the work they do.”
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Anaïs O’Donovan
Anaïs O’Donovan used her kayaking skills and all-round enthusiasm for paddle sports to raise over 15,000 euros for RNLI – an awesome haul, which included funds raised from a 24-hour kayak around Cork City.
Anaïs (34) – from near Skibbereen in County Cork – was ranked eighth in the world at the Canoe Freestyle World Championships in Nottingham in 2022, a sport she’d only recently taken up. A year later, she qualified to represent Ireland. However the sport is self-funded and she couldn’t afford to travel to compete so was forced to give up her spot to someone else, an experience she describes as heartbreaking.
But instead of moping around and feeling sorry for herself, she decided it would be a wonderful opportunity to give back to the community and brainstormed the idea of paddling for 24hrs for the RNLI. “Picking the charity was easy,” she says, “as if we ever get into difficulty on the water, the RNLI are the first people to help us out.”
Anaïs says the paddle, during which they circumnavigated Cork City twice, was an incredible experience. “I managed to rope 11 other paddlers to join in and it was definitely the hardest part of the fundraising, especially at 3am when we were so tired and cold, but it was also the most rewarding,” she says.
Anaïs and her friends also hosted free kayaking workshops, rescue skills development, and they ran a Rescue Olympics competition where five teams went head-to-head performing various rescue scenarios against each other. “Everyone was so competitive and involved, it made for a really fun, entertaining and wholesome day,” she says, of course while tying into the RNLI message of staying safe on the water.
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Cathal Kelly
Cathal Kelly walked a gruelling 2,200km from Canterbury in England to Rome this summer raising over 70,000 euros for the Mayo Parkinson’s Association and the Children’s Health Foundation Crumlin (CHFC) – a mind-blowing figure from one individual.
Cathal (46) – from Swinford in County Mayo – walked the Camino Frances in Northern Spain over the course of 37 days in 2022 and really enjoyed the experience. A friend joked that he should do the Via Francigena, a pilgrim route from Canterbury to Rome next, which sounded ridiculous to Cathal at first, but it nonetheless planted a seed in his head.
He wanted to take a year out to step outside of his comfort zone and honour his two sisters, who had died as children in the late 1970s, and decided the Via Francigena would be a suitable challenge in their memory. It also meant he could raise funds for the CHFC who’d cared for his sisters at the time and the Mayo Parkinson’s Association, as his dad has suffered from the condition for the past 20 years. And he says: “I’d always wanted to visit Italy, and I thought what better way than to walk there!”
Cathal says one of the hardest parts of the walk was the enormity of it. “The distance was a very overwhelming feature,” he says, both while planning the walk and during the first month when the route stretched out a long way out in front of him.
He found the route through the Jura mountains and Alps the hardest physically, while the final third walking down through Italy was more of a spiritual experience. “You really felt you were nearing the finish line in Rome, and you could reflect on the journey that brought you here,” he says.
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Jack Kavanagh
Jack Kavanagh is one of Ireland’s leading active disability advocates. In 2023, Jack, who is quadriplegic and has only 15% muscle function, hand-cycled an amazing 100km in a day. Since then, he’s been motivating others by highlighting how resources such as Ireland’s excellent off-road greenways can get us all moving.
Jack (32) – from County Meath – was inspired to take on his hand-cycle challenge after reading about the Japanese concept of ‘misogi’. “It talks about taking on a physical challenge as a means of spiritual purification and has been adopted by people who are into adventure such as myself,” he says. “One of the rules is that there should be a genuine 50/50 chance you won’t complete the challenge, and that’s how it was for me. I’d only ever done 54km a day, but it was a wonderful opportunity to spend a summer training and exploring the greenways, which are the perfect places to cycle in a safe way.”
Jack, who is a former windsurfing champion, says being active in the outdoors is very grounding and healing for him. “It helps me keep perspective on things,” he says.
He hopes he can encourage others to get out into nature and take their own steps to being active in a way that’s meaningful to them. “It’s medicine for the body, mind and soul,” he says. “The first step is always the hardest but then you start to build momentum and away you go.”
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Brenda O’Keefe
Brenda is an incredibly passionate runner and human and she was nominated for this award by her brother Geoff, who says he loves her resilience, determination, and courage in the face of incurable cancer.
“She is the living example of stoicism – enduring pain and hardship without complaining,” he says. “She is also the kindest, funniest, and most caring person you could meet. I am in awe of her. She brings those who know and love her along on her wave of positivity. “
In June 2009, while in a local pub, Brenda (48) – from Cavan Town in County Cavan, who now lives in England – was struck by the happiness and sense of achievement she saw amongst runners, who were celebrating their completion of the Dublin Flora Mini Marathon. There and then, she decided to sign up for the following year’s evebt. In 2010, she ran her first mini-marathon event. In October of the same year, she ran her first full marathon and then six days later she ran the Frankfurt Marathon. From then on, she never looked back. She kicked a 60-a-day smoking habit and running became her new way of life.
When Brenda received her incurable cancer diagnosis, her first thought was about her life expectancy, but her second was whether she’d be able to run her marathon that weekend. But she vowed to keep running. She has chemo every Tuesday with her amazing partner Sean alongside her, but it is the weekends that she lives for, when she competes in a marathon, which now takes her eight hours to complete.
Running will not cure Brenda’s illness, but it will prolong her sense of self-worth, and it helps her to find joy in the world. She’s now completed 570 marathons and intends to carry on her adventures to reach 600 next year.
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Frank Conroy
To Frank Conroy, age is no barrier to adventure and achievement. At 82, Frank remains an active member of the Irish Mountain Running Association (IMRA) taking part in multiple mountain running races per year as well as giving back to the community by volunteering regularly at races.
Frank (82), originally from Dublin, began his journey into mountain running with IMRA over five years ago. What started as a way to stay active after retirement has evolved into a lifelong commitment to embracing new challenges. From taking part in the Liffey Swim and the Dun Laoghaire Harbour Swim to completing triathlons and cycling events like the Sean Kelly Tour of Waterford, Francis’s dedication to pushing his limits has been nothing short of remarkable.
Following his retirement, Frank seized the opportunity to travel and spend time with his grandchildren, including trekking in the mountains of Slovenia. It was during these adventures that he encountered IMRA and discovered the rich diversity of challenges offered by Ireland’s mountain trails.
Frank is quick to credit his success to the incredible volunteers at IMRA, who ensure that every participant—regardless of age—has the chance to test themselves in all kinds of weather, and over all kinds of distances and terrains. “There’s no age that’s too old to challenge yourself,” Frank says. “You only live once, and of course, you only die once, so pushing yourself a bit is never an age problem.”
Frank’s advice to others, particularly retirees, is simple: take advantage of your time and don’t be afraid to challenge some of the younger runners. His energy and outlook have turned him into a beloved figure in Ireland’s mountain running community, proving that adventure truly has no age limit.
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Jim Callery
James Callery marked his 90th birthday in a truly extraordinary way—by walking 165km to raise awareness and funds for immigrant support charities, ultimately raising over €160,000.
When James Callery (90) – born and raised in Cloonahee, Creeve, Elphin, Co. Roscommon – began planning his milestone birthday, he knew he didn’t want a traditional celebration. Instead of a lavish hotel gathering, he chose to dedicate his time and energy to a cause close to his heart: supporting immigrants as they build new lives in Ireland.
James embarked on his journey with a deep sense of purpose, inspired by both the struggles of present-day immigrants and the hardships faced by Irish emigrants during the Great Famine. His walk was more than just a physical challenge; it was a statement of solidarity and a call for greater compassion, integration, and understanding.
A historian at heart, James is also the founder of the National Famine Museum, an institution dedicated to ensuring that Ireland’s history of migration informs how we treat newcomers today. He believes that history should not sit lifeless in a museum but should be used to foster empathy and action.
For James, even small efforts can create waves of change. “Even drops can culminate to create ripples and oceans of change,” he says.
His advice for those looking to make a difference? “Welcome people, integrate them, and create a sanctuary for their transition to a new life.”
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Laura O’Driscoll
In a feat of almost unimaginable endurance, Laura O Driscoll won the Annapurna Himal this year, a gruelling 14-stage expedition race at altitude in the Himalayas.
Laura (42) – from County Louth – has always had a passion for running and the outdoors. She did her first multi-day adventure race – the Beast AR – in Ireland in 2015 and before her mum passed away in 2020, after suffering long-term illness and dementia, she had decided to enter the Himal race to get some much-needed headspace.
Covid may have delayed her entry for four years, but it didn’t dampen her resolve to compete. And the experience did not disappoint. Despite racing for over 450km at altitude with over 24,000m of climbing, she still found the energy to enjoy everyday encounters with Nepalese people, whose happiness she found infectious, and felt like every day was an adventure.
“Maps and GPX files mean very little in a country where the landscape is constantly evolving. Landslides, river diversions, earthquakes and rapid construction meant that paths had disappeared and what you thought might take two hours took six!” she says.
There were some sketchy moments along the way and on more than one occasion she ended up on unstable terrain with sheer drops below. But she managed to escape with just minor cuts and bruises and remain healthy throughout, though by day six she’d worn through the soles on her running shoes.
Her biggest learning from the challenge? “You have to surrender to whatever situation you find yourself in. To forget about the summit or finish line and fully immerse yourself in the journey, just like in life itself.”
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Collette O’Hagan
You might remember Collette O’Hagan – the inspirational young-at-heart runner who was nominated at last year’s awards for having run 900 marathons. Well, this year she’s knocked that figure out of the park by completing her 1000th marathon at the tender age of 75.
Collette – from Dundalk in Co Louth – started running in 1990 and completed her first marathon in Dublin aged 41. She began running multiple marathons each year when she met members of the 100 marathon club. Since then, she has travelled all over the world and competed in the six majors – Tokyo, New York, Boston, Chicago, Berlin and London.
Collette – who has also fostered children her whole life, inspired by a childhood of looking after her siblings while her parents worked on a farm – loves the freedom that running brings to her life. It’s all about “the meeting of body and mind, where you can get lost in the wonder of nature, be at one with your thoughts and perhaps solve some difficulties you may be experiencing,” she says.
And she revels in the camaraderie that she feels amongst her running friends at home and abroad, which makes training in bad weather conditions and all the travel associated with her racing so much easier.
Her best advice for others? “Believe in yourself – you never know how far you can go. Don’t be afraid to test your limits because testing them will give you confidence in yourself. And never be afraid to step outside of those limits, your body is capable of far more than you can imagine.”
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Jennifer Doherty
Having become the first blind person to conquer Ireland’s seven biggest mountains in 2023, disability advocate Jennifer Doherty took things up a notch this year by climbing Mount Kilimanjaro, Africa’s highest mountain.
Jennifer (38) – from Buncrana in Co Donegal – had wanted to go to Africa since she was a child, inspired by the Lion King, the animals and African music. But she’d never considered visiting the mountains there. Then on the way home from trekking to Everest Base Camp with her sight guide, Jason Black, in 2022 and hearing him speak about the work he’d done in schools in Africa, she decided she wanted to climb Mount Kilimanjaro.
Jennifer, who was born blind, reached the 5,895m summit in June this year, with Jason Black saying shortly afterwards: “To witness [her] strength and determination to summit, embracing every step, facing head-on every challenge like a champion was brilliantly fantastic.”
As for Jennifer, she loved being immersed in the local culture and the sense of camaraderie and support she got from Jason and his mountaineering team. “The guides never treated me any differently because I’m blind. They gave me directions and let me feel my way around the rocks and climb as independently as possible,” she says. “I’m not afraid of heights so I was completely relaxed. Being blind has its advantages sometimes!”
The toughest part was the cold, especially on summit night. “The tea I had at Stella Point before the final push was the best cup I’ve ever had in my life,” she says.
What was her biggest takeaway from the climb? “Kilimanjaro is a unique experience from start to finish, so I would advise people to enjoy the expedition as a whole and don’t just focus on the summit.”
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Linda Blakely
After summiting Everest and Lhotse – the world’s fourth highest mountain – Linda Blakely promised her mum she wouldn’t climb any more mountains. Instead, to celebrate her 50th birthday, she decided to solo row across the Atlantic, completing this amazing feat in 54 days.
Linda – from Lurgan in Co Armagh – is clearly no stranger to extreme adventure. She’s always been sporty and enjoyed setting herself challenges starting with Ironman racing and moving on to climbing mountains. “I like to push the boundaries in everything I do and to be accountable for myself and my actions,” she says.
During her epic rowing crossing of 3,000 nautical miles from Gran Canaria to Barbados, where she felt like the Atlantic was “vast and never-ending”, she had plenty of highs and lows, including capsizing when she was just two days in. And her 50th birthday was both her best and worst day.
At 3am she felt almost beaten from battling winds that were constantly pushing her in the wrong direction, but she pushed on through and at 10am had a break to read birthday cards with a small piece of cake and champagne. Then, her social media man Barry told her to fire up her satellite messenger and she was greeted with hundreds of supportive missives from people all over the world who were following her journey on Instagram.
“It was a moment I will never forget, I felt so inspired by all these people willing me on who didn’t even know me,” she says. And the interest helped her raise over £100,000 for Action Medical Research.
Her advice for others? “You are much stronger than you think.”
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Jessika Robson
Jessika Robson is back with another award nomination this year as the amazing Northern Irish teenager became the youngest swimmer ever to complete the Irish Triple Crown marathon swimming challenge.
Jessika (18) – from Hillsborough in Co Down – won the Youth category at last year’s awards when she became the youngest person to swim the North Channel, breaking a World Record in the process. But soon afterwards, she found herself looking for her next challenge and thought the Irish Triple Crown, which involves three solo marathon swims – the North Channel, Fastnet to Baltimore Pier and Galway Bay – would be “awesome to complete”.
In reality, it was incredibly tough. She had to battle hundreds of jellyfish in Galway Bay and faced huge waves on the Fastnet route, which made swimming exhausting and most of her crew seasick. But they made it through. And Jessika, who has swum competitively since the age of eight but only started sea swimming four years ago, felt so happy to finish. She’s also sure those tricky moments taught her a lot about resilience and mental strength along the way.
Her advice for anyone contemplating an open water swim challenge? “Stay calm. With open water, there are so many things that can affect a swim beyond your control, such as tides and weather. There is no point stressing about what could go wrong – just be ready for when things are going right.”
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Rachel Nolan
Rachel Nolan put in an inspired performance at this year’s Pan Celtic Race. She was the first woman to cross the finish line and came seventh overall – after almost seven days of gruelling self-supported bike-packing.
Rachel (39) – from Ballina in County Mayo – loves multi-day endurance events. She placed fifth in the World Adventure Racing Championships last year and was keen to enter this year’s Pan Celtic Race because the route looked “class” and it may be the event’s final year.
“It’s a journey to discover the most spectacular landscapes in the Isle of Man, the Lake District and Scotland, and to push as hard as you want physically and mentally,” she says. “It attracts a certain type of person and community and although you are out there alone, you are part of this big adventure all together connecting with nature.”
Rachel says there were so many enjoyable moments during the race, during which she cycled over 2,400km. “I took every section and day as a new one and soaked in all the simple pleasures,” she says. The only wobble came when she got food poisoning for 24 hours and couldn’t keep any food or water down, but she knew from experience it would pass, so she kept moving, albeit at a slower pace. “Once I could eat again, I was off like a rocket,” she says, laughing.
Her advice for others? “Make your own adventure, however you want to do it. I feel incredibly grateful to be able to take on and experience these challenges where I gain so many deep learnings on the journey.”
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Emma Stuart
Talented ultra-runner Emma Stuart suffered a disappointing Ultra Trail du Mont Blanc (UTMB) this year due to sickness but a couple of months later she returned to the sport with a bang, winning the epic Kullamannen 100-mile trail race along Sweden’s southern coastline.
Emma (34) – from Sligo, who now lives in northern England – loves ultra-running as she says it’s a great way to explore and get to know places. “I love chasing views – it’s an efficient way to see more scenery in a shorter space of time!” she says, adding that she also loves the problem-solving aspects of the sport.
She works as a busy farm animal vet, and had a battle to get to the start line in Sweden in time for the race, but once there everything fell into place. “Kullamannen was almost a perfect race for me,” she says. “The start at Hoganas is absolutely epic with a knight on horseback charging down the street and we charged after him like warriors into battle – it really fired me up for the challenge ahead.”
She also enjoyed the fact that the Kullamannen is mostly run at night. “Fortunately, the weather was absolutely perfect, so I was able to really just enjoy the beautiful, runnable trails that the Swedish coastline had to offer,” she says.
Her advice for runners thinking of stepping up to longer distances? “Just go for it! Longer distances are more about pacing, nutrition, strategy and mental resilience as opposed to speed, and you can go a lot further than you think you can – it’s amazing what our bodies can do when they are pushed.”
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Gavan Hennigan
Gavan Hennigan etched his name into the history books this year when he raced across the Alaskan wilderness and became the first Irish person to complete the 1,000-mile Iditarod Trail Invitational – one of the world’s most gruelling and extreme endurance challenges.
The 43-year-old Galwegian braved brutal Arctic conditions – snow, sleet, rain, and wind – and battled rugged terrain, while pulling his sled for 24 days and 18 hours, in a race that is frequently dubbed ‘the world’s longest and toughest winter ultra-marathon’.
Gavan is no stranger to long-distance endeavours – in 2017 he rowed solo across the Atlantic – and since completing his first ultra in Arctic Canada a decade ago he has sought out more and more winter races, competing in Siberia and Canada, to enable him to qualify for the Iditarod Trail Invitational.
He describes the experience as “an incredible journey through one of the last great wildernesses on earth” with highlights including the sweeping views of the Alaska range, travelling on the mighty Yukon River, and crossing the sea ice of the Bering Sea.
Gavan had to push hard to finish the race, especially when the temperature rose from minus 40 to zero, serving up whiteout conditions, wet weather that soaked him to the bone, and soft snow, which was slow to move through.
His advice for others? “Just start the thing. When you put yourself forward to take on something bigger than yourself, you’re going to find the best version of yourself. The doubts and fears wash away, and you’ll be amazed at what’s possible.”
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Dermot Higgins, endurance swimmer
Dermot Higgins didn’t just become the oldest person to swim the entire length of the River Shannon this year – a hugely impressive feat in anyone’s book – he also became the fastest, completing the 250km stretch in a record 10 days.
Dermot (62) – from Skerries in County Dublin – has been fascinated by rivers all his life, especially the Shannon. That’s thanks hearing stories in childhood about a mystical goddess called Sionnan. A fan of long-distance endurance events – be they cycling, hiking, canoeing, or swimming – he first attempted the Shannon Swim in 2022 but when he was forced to pull out due to injury, he vowed to return one day.
He trained hard for six months and completed the swim with relative ease, which he attributes to the beautiful September weather and his fantastic support team. “Most of my previous expeditions have been solo,” he says. “But the camaraderie I had with my two pilots and the filmmaker Kelly Armstrong, who is making a full-length documentary about the swim, was extraordinary.”
Of course, there were tough moments along the way, such as the exhausting day he swam over 30km and spent 12 hours in the water. And the time he collided with a rancid and bloated sheep carcass. But in the main it was a joyful experience. And he encourages others to seek out their own challenges in the outdoors, whatever they may be. “I’m a very ordinary guy, quite a bit overweight and well into my 60s but with dedication and by harnessing the goodwill of people around you, you can achieve what many would consider unachievable,” he says.
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Aidan Ennis
Aidan Ennis became the first person to complete a continuous through-hike of the 275 Vandeleur–Lynam Mountains this year – an amazing achievement which took him 48 days, nine hours, and 30 minutes.
When Aidan Ennis (56) – from Waterford City, who now lives in County Waterford – first planned to hike the Vandeleur-Lynam mountains he wasn’t thinking about breaking any records, he simply wanted to attempt something that hadn’t been done before.
Aidan planned to hike over each mountain range, and then run with his backpack to the next one, camping in the mountains and carrying his tent, sleeping bag and other provisions with him. He hadn’t realised quite how far it would be from the first summit of Corcogemore in County Galway to Más an Tiompáin in County Kerry but he cracked on, hiking an incredible 2,469km distance, with a staggering 69,002m of elevation along the way.
Aidan has always loved being outdoors, and walking and running through remote and spectacular landscapes, but he says this trip was different from all his previous expeditions because of the support he received from everyone he met. “It made the expedition an exceptional experience,” he says.
He almost gave up on day 42 but was saved by two strong lattes and some pear and almond scones, and keeping going helped him raise much-needed funds for Brighter Communities Worldwide, a County Cork charity that works to provide clean drinking water for schools and communities in rural Kenya.
His tips for fellow multi-day hikers? “Look after your feet, and take one good coffee break every day!”
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Sean Clifford
This year, Sean Clifford became the first person to tackle the iconic Vandeleur–Lynam (VL) list as an ultra running challenge. He climbed all 275 mountains in a rapid 21 days, two hours and 46 minutes, more than halving the previous fastest known time record.
Sean (46) – from Killarney in County Kerry – has been into ultra running since the early days of the sport. He first thought about running the VL in 2019 after he was the first person in Ireland to run 10km of vert on Carrauntoohil, but life got in the way. Then last summer, during a rare gap in his schedule, he started running up every mountain in Galway, which turned into a three-week adventure around Ireland. “The unplanned nature made it all the more enjoyable,” he says.
Sean says exploring so much of Ireland that he’d never seen before was a dream come true. He runs outdoor camps in the south of France – a region most people consider paradise – but is convinced that what Ireland has to offer is just as amazing as anything we can find abroad.
“Ireland is wild, and I was ‘treated’ to crazy conditions on many mountains this summer. I love being out in the elements and to be alone in the Irish wilderness navigating my way around the country was a true privilege,” he says.
“I hope people see what I did as a sign they too can get so much from time spent in the mountains, both physically and mentally. The mountains are steady guides and silent teachers.”
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Ed Payne
After five days of relentless graft, Ed Payne cemented his reputation as a huge talent in Irish mountain running with an epic win at the Coast2Coast 600km.
Ed (39) – from Tulsk in County Roscommon and a member of Galway Trail Running club – was the first solo participant to cross the line in the race which runs from Bray Head in Wicklow to Bray Head on Valentia Island.
For a relatively small county, Ireland has an impressive array of mountains and Ed loves to run up them. “I don’t enjoy a beautiful view or landscape as much if it comes easy, say if I drive there,” he says. “But if I run for however long to get there, that remoteness is all part of the beauty.”
Ed was inspired to enter the Coast2Coast by Brian Bryne – a hero of the Irish mountain running scene – who shared his memories of the route from some years ago.
“Although I love to run fast, I am starting to realise that finding out how far I can run is the biggest itch I have at the moment, and this event was a perfect step up in distance from the 200-miler I did in Oct 2023,” says Ed.
His highlights of the race include the camaraderie between the runners, volunteers and race directors, his last view of the Irish Sea early one morning and first view of the Atlantic and getting a hug from his youngest on the last day, 15km before the finish line.
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Ryan O’Sullivan
This year, Ryan O’Sullivan completed one of climbing’s most iconic challenges, when he became the youngest Irish person to climb the Seven Summits – the highest mountains on each continent.
Ryan (28) – from Grange in County Sligo – has been climbing for 11 years, having been inspired by a talk at his school from Ian McKeever (now deceased), who once held the record for being the fastest person to climb the Seven Summits, and who was looking for students to climb Kilimanjaro. “I’ve been hooked ever since,” says Ryan. “I love the simplicity of life when you’re in the mountains. The only things you worry about are warmth, shelter, food, and your next step.”
The Seven Summits was always part of Ryan’s plan and he has loved the discipline and structure that the challenge has brought to his life over the past decade. “As clichéd as it sounds, the best part of this whole thing was the journey to the summit rather than reaching the top,” he says.
His happiest memories of the expeditions are of the final pushes for the summit. “Typically, you climb through the night and when the sun starts to rise, you stop and look out over the world – it’s a feeling that’s hard to beat.”
While the hardest part was waiting for conditions to become favourable, as Ryan – who finished the Seven Summits at Mount Vinson (4,892m) in Antarctica last January – admits he’s not “a patient man”. He also didn’t like having to force down food at altitude when he didn’t feel hungry.
His advice for others planning crazy challenges? “Take the first step now.”
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Ronan Dunne
Ronan Dunne is arguably one of the world’s most exciting young downhill mountain bikers at the moment, banking wins in the Polish round of the World Cup and Red Bull Hardline races in Australia and Wales this year.
Ronan (22) – from Enniskerry in County Wicklow – went from being a part-time farmer and privateer racer to becoming a member of Red Bull’s downhill racing team in a crazy short amount of time. He used to ride motorcycle trials but when a friend lent him his mountain bike and he discovered the thrills of downhill racing, he never looked back.
He started out racing in Ireland, did a few Junior World Cup events and then began competing on the senior circuit in 2021, securing a number of top 30 finishes in his first season.
His new sponsors Red Bull rave about his crowd-pleasing “all-in riding style” and they’ve tipped him to become Ireland’s greatest-ever downhill mountain bike racer. After his win in Poland, he’d told the Irish Times, he’d thrown caution to the wind and fully expected to either win or get badly injured. “I had myself with the mindset that I’d go for a helicopter trip or coming down in first. We didn’t take the helicopter trip, we took the win,” he said.
This year, he was also signed by the esteemed Mondraker Factory team, and everyone in Irish mountain biking can’t wait to see what he does next.
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Dave Berry
In 2024, Dave Berry set an ambitious goal to swim the entire length of Leinster, covering 320km in 16 marathon swims. Each swim averaged 20km, taking five hours. In addition to that mammoth challenge, he also conquered the Scotland-to-Ireland swim, False Bay in South Africa, and Angel Island in San Francisco. “It was a fun and challenging year of testing my limits,” Dave shares. In total, he completed 21 marathon swims, surpassing his total marathon swims in the previous two years combined.
At 49, Dave is relatively new to open-water swimming, having started just three years ago. “I love the mental clarity and physical challenge. It’s a personal journey of discovery and improvement,” he explains when asked about what appeals to him about the sport.
Balancing swimming with family life, his wife and daughters played critical roles in his journey. His wife and his eldest daughter have done their powerboat training so could skipper his swims while his younger daughter assisted with feeds.
Reflecting on his accomplishments, Dave recalls swimming alongside his daughter during one Leinster leg: “That was a big moment for me.”
Born in Dublin, Dave now lives in Stillorgan with his family, continuing to push his limits.
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Corinna Nolan
Corinna Nolan is a cornerstone of the open-water swimming community in Wicklow, where her contributions as a coach, mentor, and athlete have left an indelible mark on countless swimmers.
Corinna, who hails from Bray, Co Wicklow, has inspired many to move from the pool to the open sea. As a swim instructor, she has introduced children and adults to the joys of swimming, often coaxing hesitant newcomers to try it out. Her dedication extends beyond coaching; she has organised water safety awareness talks, volunteered her time to teach refugees introductory swimming lessons, and worked with Enable Ireland to help children with special needs experience the freedom and joy of water.
Corinna’s achievements as a swimmer are equally remarkable. She is the only Wicklow woman known to have completed the prestigious Irish Triple Crown of open-water swimming, conquering the North Channel, Fastnet and Galway Bay. Her North Channel swim alone raised over €20,000 for Enable Ireland, a charity close to her heart.
Corinna is also a talented photographer, capturing the triumph and relief on swimmers’ faces at the finish lines and bringing the beauty of Wicklow’s waters to life. Always happy to share her experience, she provides invaluable guidance to aspiring Channel swimmers, offering advice on nutrition, overcoming the cold and other challenges unique to long-distance open-water swimming.
Through her tireless efforts, Corinna has built a vibrant and supportive community of swimmers in Bray and Greystones. Her humility and constant encouragement make her a true beacon in the world of open-water swimming.
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Fergal Somerville
Fergal Somerville made history in 2024 as the first person to successfully complete a circumnavigation swim of Inis Mór, the largest of the Aran Islands. This remarkable feat, covering 34km in 13 hours and 27 minutes, was the culmination of over a decade of planning and training – and an incredible way to honour 175 years of continuous service by the Aran Island lifeboat station.
For Fergal Somerville (61) – originally from Artane, Dublin, and now living in Beaumont – swimming has been a lifelong passion. Over the past 15 years, he has completed numerous marathon swims, including the ‘Original Triple Crown of Channel Swims’, earning two Guinness World Records for his achievements in the North and Bristol Channels. A member of both the Ireland Marathon Swimming Hall of Fame and the International Ice Swimming Hall of Fame, Fergal has clocked over 1,000km in open water annually, training with unyielding dedication.
The Inis Mór swim, Fergal’s toughest challenge yet, adhered to strict Channel rules, with no assistance beyond nourishment provided by his support crew. Battling the powerful Atlantic tides and Galway Bay currents, Fergal persevered through unrelenting conditions. “The circumnavigation of Inis Mór was pure endurance – an unrelenting effort,” he says. Despite the physical toll, Fergal describes the experience as a crowning moment in his career and a tribute to the bravery of the Aran Lifeboat volunteers who inspired him.
Fergal’s connection to the Aran Islands spans over 25 years, with annual holidays on Inis Meáin fuelling his appreciation for the lifeboat team’s dedication. His 2024 swim also marked his third circumnavigation of the Aran Islands, having previously conquered Inis Meáin in 2014 and Inis Oírr in 2020.
Acknowledging the immense support he received, Fergal credits his wife, Mags, his family, and his dedicated crew, including Aran Lifeboat members Margaret Gill and Aonghus Ó hIarnáin. “There is nothing solo about a solo swim,” he reflects, emphasising the teamwork behind his endurance success.
Recently retired from the civil service, Fergal is now dedicating even more time to his swimming pursuits and cherishing life with his family. His advice for endurance swimmers? “Believe in your preparation, cherish your support network, and never underestimate the power of the tide.”
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Maura Kiely
Maura Kiely – a passionate environmental advocate, and Chief Executive Officer of Leave No Trace Ireland – completed an impressive 5.6km open water swim from Roonagh Pier to Clare Island last September raising over €5,000 for Westport Autism Friendly Town and inspiring her local community along the way. The arduous months of training for this ambitious swim paid off for Maura as she crossed from Roonagh Quay to Clare Island, a feat made even more meaningful by the support of her community and the awareness raised for autism and inclusion.
Maura is deeply connected with nature and some of her other significant expeditions have included hiking in the Himalayas and sailing across the Atlantic.
Beyond the swim, Maura’s impact on Ireland’s outdoors is wide-reaching. She was the first team member of LNTI and as CEO has developed the organisation into a national leader in protecting Irelands outdoors, fostering partnerships with government bodies and communities. With her focus and strategic direction, Maura has grown Leave No Trace Ireland’s funding to €1million, increased LNTI’s team to 18 and grown its membership.
LNTI’s keystone ‘Love This Place’ awareness campaign highlights simple actions the public should take to safeguard and care for outdoor spaces. Now, run annually, in collaboration with LNT’s partner organisations, the campaign reaches a social media audience of almost 5.9 million.
Her leadership in the charities sector was recognised with a National Charity Impact award in 2023, Most Impactful NGO and National Good Governance Award in 2023.
Maura’s vision for LNTI has not only supported conservation but also enhanced opportunities for outdoor recreation throughout the country with projects such as the development of Blueway trails.
For Maura, being outdoors isn’t just a passion – it something that can transform lives. She is committed to educating and inspiring people of all ages and abilities to get outdoors and experiencing the life enhancing benefits of time immersed in nature and the natural world.
Whether leading an expedition, undertaking a personal outdoor challenge, or driving innovative impactful conservation and education strategies at a local or national level, her work continually inspires others to connect with, care for and enjoy Ireland’s natural landscapes.
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Angela Flynn
Angela Flynn is a cornerstone of the Irish mountain running community, dedicating countless hours to the Irish Mountain Running Association (IMRA) and advancing the sport in Ireland through innovative, inclusive and sustainable initiatives.
When Angela – from Kilmacanogue, Co Wicklow – first became involved with IMRA, her passion for the mountains and her commitment to fostering a thriving outdoor community quickly set her apart. Over the years, she has contributed tirelessly to the association, serving on the committee, developing new races and volunteering at countless events to ensure everyone can enjoy the mountains safely.
Angela’s sustainability efforts within IMRA are transformative. She introduced multi-use flags for race marking, which reduces waste, and encouraged race attendees to cycle or carpool to events, even facilitating carpooling groups from her home. She also spearheaded the link between IMRA and the Pure Mile initiative, ensuring the Sugarloaf remained pristine until the responsibility passed to local volunteers. Beyond this, she has organised tree-planting days using IMRA’s carbon offset fund, personally hosting and catering for volunteers.
Her commitment to inclusion has also been remarkable. She has hosted junior development days in community halls and championed events like women-only night races, promoting safe running spaces for women. Most recently, she ran up and down the Sugarloaf every day to raise funds for charity, inviting friends, family, and strangers to join her in this inspiring endeavour.
Angela’s dedication to the future of Irish mountain running includes working on partnerships between IMRA and universities to establish athletic scholarships for young Irish mountain runners, fostering the next generation of talent.
Angela’s enthusiasm, innovation, and unwavering commitment to IMRA make her an integral part of Ireland’s mountain-running community. Her advice to others looking to contribute? “Be present, think big, and always remember the value of community.”
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Lisa Howley
Lisa Howley has dedicated her life to the world of open-water swimming, coaching and mentoring, and inspiring countless individuals with her selflessness, resilience, and love for the sport.
When Lisa Howley – a seasoned athlete and coach – began her journey in swimming, she was motivated purely by her passion for the sport and a desire to help others reach their potential. Over the years, she has forged a remarkable career, coaching swimming and triathlon clubs, as well as mentoring individuals in disciplines ranging from water polo to marathon swimming to Ironman-distance triathlons. Her quiet dedication and focus on the joy of the sport rather than personal recognition have earned her immense respect in the swimming community.
Lisa’s coaching philosophy is rooted in simplicity and consistency. In late 2023, she offered one of her mentees a piece of advice that has since become a cornerstone of their training: “Consistency is key. Aim for 20km a week, but if life gets in the way, don’t stress – just focus on maintaining it over the long term.” Her ability to provide clear, actionable guidance is a testament to her expertise and straight-talking approach.
Despite facing a personal challenge with her cancer diagnosis, Lisa has remained a beacon of positivity. Though her illness temporarily sidelined her from swimming and training, she continued to support others and stayed connected with her active community. Whether it’s raising funds for local charities like the Gavin Glynn Foundation or sharing a post-training coffee with friends, Lisa’s commitment to camaraderie and her unwavering spirit shine through.
Lisa’s strength, discipline, and community-focused mindset define her as a coach, mentor and person. Her advice to those striving to achieve their goals? “Stay consistent, embrace challenges and always find joy in the journey.”
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Enda Cloake
Enda Cloake was awarded Mountain Runner of the Year at the Athletics Ireland annual awards in November 2024, capping off a phenomenal year of achievements both in the mountains of Ireland and further afield. When Enda Cloake – from Wexford – isn’t delivering exceptional performances on the international stage, he’s giving back to the sport through his work with Ireland’s Mountain Running Association (IMRA). As a volunteer supporting IMRA’s Junior Development Programme, Enda has inspired young athletes with his dedication and leadership, becoming an outstanding role model for the next generation of mountain runners.
Since first representing Ireland at the European and World Championships in 2021, Enda has consistently raised the bar. In 2024, he delivered his best performance yet, finishing 43rd in a fiercely competitive field at the World Mountain Running Championships. The gruelling 58km route, with over 3,500 metres of elevation gain, was no match for Enda’s grit, as he crossed the line in under six hours – a full hour ahead of his target.
Enda is devoted to the sport of mountain running, not only through his impressive elite performances but also through his embodiment of IMRA’s volunteer spirit and community values. A true ambassador for Irish mountain running, Enda continues to inspire both on and off the trails.
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Peter Conroy
Peter Conroy has dedicated his life to pushing the boundaries of big-wave surfing while prioritizing safety. A firefighter from Dublin, he co-founded the Irish Tow Surf Rescue Club (ITSRC) to introduce life-saving rescue techniques to Ireland’s growing big-wave scene.
Peter’s passion for the ocean began as a teenager when he had his first surf session at Crab Island. With a background in competitive swimming, he quickly developed a love for big waves and the raw power of the sea. Over the years, he has surfed some of Ireland’s most dangerous waves, earning global recognition. In 2011, he caught a wave that secured him a spot in the WXL (World’s Biggest Waves), and three years ago, he won the Irish Big Wave Awards for an epic ride off the Clare coast.
Beyond his own surfing achievements, Peter is committed to ensuring the safety of others. The ITSRC, which he founded in 2006, provides critical jet ski rescue training and has gained praise from elite surfers and even the Irish Coast Guard. The club now has around 40 members and has played a vital role in safety at major surf events, including the Billabong Tow-In event at Mullaghmore.
Peter’s vision extends beyond surfing. He has helped integrate jet skis into Ireland’s rescue infrastructure, fighting to have them recognized as essential tools rather than luxury toys. He has also worked to install defibrillators in coastal hotels and develop sea survival courses tailored to Ireland’s treacherous waters.
For Peter, safety is non-negotiable. He urges all ocean athletes to invest in training, from wilderness medicine to apnea (breath-hold) techniques, believing preparation is key. “There’s no point in chasing waves if you’re not ready for the risks,” he says. Whether he’s charging massive swells or leading a rescue mission, Peter continues to shape Ireland’s big-wave surf culture with courage and responsibility.
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Eoin McMahon
Eoin McMahon has spent decades shaping the next generation of adventurers through his tireless work with the 35th Waterford, Copper Coast Scout Group. This year, his dedication paid off in a major way when the group secured a Sports Capital Grant to build a long-awaited scout den—an achievement that took years of fundraising, persistence, and determination.
When Eoin McMahon (49), from Waterford, first joined the scouts at age six, he had no idea it would become a lifelong passion. For him, scouting was more than just weekend trips; it was a foundation for resilience, leadership, and a deep love of the outdoors. Now, as a leader, he strives to pass on those same lessons to his troop.
Eoin believes in pushing boundaries and embracing adventure. In 2024 alone, he led his scouts on a cycle along the Greenway to Dungarvan, carrying all their gear for an overnight stay. In summer, they paddled from Goresbridge to Graiguenamanagh, spending the night in hammocks among the trees. They also cycled from their scout site in Ballyscanlon all the way to Fethard on Sea for their annual summer camp. And in November, he challenged them to a night hike and camp in the Comeragh Mountains, testing their navigation skills in the dark and rain.
“The scouts always rise to the challenge,” he says. “They’re involved in planning every trip, so they take real ownership of their adventures.”
For Eoin, the most important lesson he can impart is a “can-do” attitude—no matter the weather, no matter the conditions, the Copper Coast scouts gear up and get out there. He’s constantly inspired by their enthusiasm and believes scouting equips them with skills they’ll carry for life: from orienteering and first aid to leadership and confidence.
And his top advice for young adventurers? “You’re capable of more than you think. Get the gear and get out there!”
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Leo Mahon
Leo Mahon has been a cornerstone of the Irish mountain running community for over a decade, bringing his extensive background in athletics and an unparalleled dedication to fostering the sport.
Before his involvement with the Irish Mountain Running Association (IMRA), Leo – from Dublin – played a pivotal role in Irish athletics. As secretary of the Dublin County Athletics Board and a member of the National Cross-Country Committee, he worked tirelessly to promote the sport. His contributions to Athletics Ireland, dating back to its Bord Lúthchleas na hÉireann (BLE) days before 2000, further highlight his lifelong commitment to supporting athletes at all levels.
Leo became involved with IMRA in 2009, initially serving as the Junior Development Officer before taking on the critical role of High-Performance Officer, which he held for over six years. In these positions, he was instrumental in nurturing young talent and ensuring Ireland’s best mountain runners had the support they needed to compete internationally. Even after stepping down from formal committee duties in 2022, Leo remains an integral part of the high-performance team. His ability to manage complex travel logistics for international events is invaluable, as is his steady and thoughtful guidance.
While Leo has participated in just 20 IMRA races, his 77 volunteering credits speak volumes about his dedication to the community. Known for his calm wisdom and tireless work behind the scenes, he exemplifies the spirit of giving back to the sport he loves.
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Niall Breslin
Niall Breslin (44), from Mullingar, Co. Westmeath, is a prominent mental health advocate and co-founder of A Lust for Life, a charity focused on mental health education and early prevention. Established with Paula McLoughlin and Colm McCormack, the charity now operates in 48% of Irish primary schools, offering free 10-week programmes to help children manage their mental health. Niall’s personal journey with mental health inspired him to take action, especially given the lack of education during his own school years.
Along with a close-knit group, Niall, took on one of the most meaningful outdoor challenges of his life this summer. Their adventure included paddling the Shannon, then cycling to Cronin’s Yard in Kerry and climbing Carrauntoohil, the highest peak in Ireland. The challenge wasn’t just a physical feat; it was designed to reflect the ups and downs of life, teaching young people that challenges are an inevitable part of the journey.
Through the hardships of this challenge, Niall’s message to young people is clear: life, much like the Shannon, is not a straight path, but with resilience and the right mindset, we can overcome the tough times. His advice for anyone feeling lost in life, especially those struggling with mental health is simple. He states, “I believe there will be a Post Digital Revolution, where you’ll see mass amounts of people rejecting social media and moving away from it.” He advises those feeling lost to “disconnect from the noise of social media,” anticipating a future where many will reject its pressures. His efforts raised €175,000 for A Lust for Life, furthering its mission to transform mental health education in Ireland.
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JUDGING PANEL CATEGORIES
Outsider Woman of the Year sponsored by Sport Ireland
Outsider Man of the Year sponsored by Salewa
The Olly O’Neill Most Inspiring Person Award sponsored by Craghoppers
Diversity/Inclusion Award sponsored by Sport Ireland
Most Devoted to the Outdoor Scene supported by Sustainable Tourism Network
Eco-Hero Award – Volunteers sponsored by Craghoppers
Eco-Hero Professionals and Companies supported by Sustainable Tourism Network
VOTING CATEGORIES
Outdoor Content Creator – VOTE NOW
Outdoor Event of the Year – VOTE NOW
Audience Choice Award – VOTE NOW
Best Outdoor Escape/Provider – VOTE NOW
This content was created and edited by Matthew McConnell, Sam Haddad and Heather Snelgar
