Marty Morrissey was in Limerick to launch the Regeneron Great Limerick Run 2025, with this year’s edition promising to be bigger and better than ever!
A record number of participants are predicted to register for this year's event, which takes place during the May Bank Holiday Weekend.
The event, hailed as the largest mass participation sporting event outside of Dublin, was officially launched by the newly appointed Minister for Arts, Media, Communications, Culture & Sport – Patrick O’Donovan and the Mayor of the City and County of Limerick, John Moran.
Speaking at the event Minister O’Donovan said:
“It’s an honour to be here, in my new capacity as Minister for Sport. The running community of Limerick and further afield put great stock on events like this, coming together and sharing in the competitive experience. I hope to be a strong advocate for all who train, compete and support our sportspeople. Last year’s Olympics showed what a major impact Ireland has made and will continue to make on the world stage - not least in the running and athletics competitions. Events like the Great Limerick Run are part of the local and national building blocks that underpin international success, and I’m delighted to be here to recognise that.”
Speaking at the launch, which took place at the Limerick Strand Hotel, Mayor of Limerick John Moran noted the huge economic impact the Regeneron Great Limerick Run has on the City.
Mayor of Limerick, John Moran: said
“The Regeneron Great Limerick Run is not just a race; it is a social occasion drawing massive crowds to Limerick, showcasing the city's different kind of energy and injecting a €5 million economic boost during the May Bank Holiday Riverfest weekend. The three distinct races make this an inclusive event motivating people to embark on a more active lifestyle. Whether young or not-so-young, seasoned athletes or occasional runners and walkers, all are invited to embrace the unique atmosphere and join in the excitement.”
Niall O’Leary, Senior Vice President, Site Head at Regeneron Ireland said
“As title sponsors of the Regeneron Great Limerick Run for the fifth consecutive year, we are thrilled to once again be part of this extraordinary event, which has become a highlight of Ireland’s running calendar. With over 15,000 participants, this event embodies the spirit of togetherness, bringing competitive athletes and fun-loving participants side by side in an atmosphere of determination and camaraderie. Having been part of the Limerick community for over 10 years, Regeneron is deeply committed to supporting initiatives that promote health, wellness, and connection. We extend our thanks to the organisers, volunteers, and participants who make it all possible. Best of luck to everyone taking part and here’s to a race day filled with inspiring moments and shared success.”
As well as being the largest mass participatory sporting event outside of Dublin, the Regeneron Great Limerick Run is the only ‘Tier One’ event in the Mid-West region.
Speaking at the launch of the 2025 event, Sliabh Wells, Managing Director of The Bear Group (Event Organiser) welcomed the continued title sponsorship of Regeneron and confirmed that the Munster Athletics Council have again designated both the Marathon and Half Marathon as their official Munster championship races. This designation, which will entice a higher number of competitive athletes chasing personal best race times, is a reflection on the growing status of the Regeneron Great Limerick Run as a premier running event.
‘’It is brilliant to be back for another year of the Regeneron Great Limerick Run. Year after year this event has continued to outdo itself, and I am sure 2025 will be no different. Last year we had over 15,000 participants take to the streets and are on course for another record number this year. We also managed to fundraise over €300K for Local and National Charities, and this will once again be a big focus for us.
"We’d like to thank all our fantastic event partners who make this all possible. To our Title Sponsors Regeneron for their continued support of the event, they have become synonymous with it and we’re extremely grateful to them. Limerick City and County Council for facilitating the event and working with us throughout the event planning process. Also, to Crescent Shopping Centre for their support of the Volunteer programme, which helps raise funds of over €20K for local sports and cultural groups.
Finally, we’d like to thank the City and County of Limerick. They help us bring this event to life and are the primary reason that so many runners return year after year. ‘’