Diamond Shines In Dublin As Kilcoole Athlete Targets Marathon Marker

Sarah Diamond from Kilcoole A.C produced a strong performance to finish third in the Irish Life Dublin Half Marathon, with eyes now firmly fixed on the Dublin Marathon in October.

The Wicklow runner turned in an impressive performance at the Irish Life Dublin Half Marathon, securing a third-place finish in a competitive field of elite distance runners in a time of 1:19:41.

Speaking in the immediate aftermath of the race, Sarah Diamond reflected on the demanding nature of the course and the factors that make running in Dublin such a rewarding experience.

"It was a really, really tough race. All these races around the Phoenix Park are quite hilly, so they're really challenging, but really good in the lead up to Dublin because Dublin Marathon is quite hilly as well, so they're really good practice."

For Diamond, the race served a dual purpose—both a competitive opportunity and preparation for her primary goal this autumn. The hilly terrain of the Phoenix Park course, which loops twice or three times during the half marathon, mirrors the challenges runners will face in the Dublin Marathon at the end of October.

But it's not just the course that makes Dublin special. Diamond was vocal about the atmosphere and support that runners experience throughout the race.

Sarah Diamond

"The support on the course is always great and the girls who race are always super as well. People just recognise my singlet and they say, come on, feel cool, and that really just distracts me for a few seconds, so it's amazing."

The camaraderie between competitors and the encouragement from spectators is something Diamond clearly treasures. She spoke warmly of the sense of community that characterises racing in the capital, where fellow competitors are generous with their support and encouragement.

With her focus now turning to the Dublin Marathon—her 11th marathon—Diamond has set her sights on chasing a personal best. For her, it's about far more than just crossing the finish line.

"With Dublin anyway, it's definitely the support. It's my favourite day of the year by far. With the marathon, it's always just trying to chase a PB. It's a really, really fun distance and I really enjoy it."

The Dublin Marathon has clearly carved a special place in Diamond's running calendar. The combination of a challenging course, vibrant atmosphere, and a supportive running community makes it, in her words, "my favourite day of the year by far."

After the Dublin Marathon in late October, Diamond is planning to take a well-deserved break from marathon racing. Given her third-place finish in the half marathon and her clear commitment to excellence, expectations will be high for her performance in Dublin.