We are delighted to announce that the first ever Cork City Council Women’s Caucus SheRACES Runner of the Year has been awarded to Niamh Byrne , Co Founder of United by Miles. Niamh’s leadership, compassion, and determination have created one of the most inspiring community initiatives to emerge in Cork in recent years. Cork City Council’s Womens Caucus SheRACES Runner of the Year: Niamh’s journey began in heartbreak. Her brother, Sean, passed away just before Christmas 2024 after a struggle with addiction. In January 2025, Niamh and her mother, Frankie, chose to honour his memory by giving back to the addiction recovery centre in Blarney where Sean had received support. They began volunteering every Tuesday, leading a Couch to 5K programme for residents - a simple idea that quickly grew into something extraordinary, along with the help of friends Aine and Graham. When Cork City Marathon learned about their work, we reached out and sponsored entries for the Cork City Marathon 10K and half marathon in 2025. The group soon formed their own identity, proudly choosing the name United by Miles, and we were delighted to provide them with branded running tops to reflect
that unity. Around twenty residents took part, many completing their first ever organised run. The sense of achievement and belonging was immediate. Since then, the momentum has only grown. Niamh has led significant fundraising efforts, including securing the resources to build a gym within the centre. Their involvement with the Analog Devices Cork City Marathon has opened doors to free entries in local races, and every Saturday the group participates in the Ballincollig Parkrun - a weekly ritual that strengthens routine, confidence, and community. United by Miles is now far more than a running group. It is a model for how sport, structure, and solidarity can support people in addiction recovery. It demonstrates what can happen when compassion meets action, and it offers a blueprint that we hope to expand to other recovery centres across the region. Niamh Byrne embodies the spirit of the SheRACES Runner of the Year award. Her resilience, generosity, and vision have transformed lives - and her impact is only beginning.
37 Cork City Marathon 2026
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