Ava Crean has officially announced herself on the national stage, claiming the title of National Champion at the Irish Life Dublin Marathon.
Her victory isn’t just a win; it’s a statement. With every stride, Ava demonstrated the rare combination of endurance, strategy, and raw talent that marks the making of a true champion.
In a remarkable achievement, 19-year-old Ava from Raheen, Limerick — coached and mentored by one of Limerick’s finest runners, John Kinsella — has captured the women’s national title with an outstanding time of 2:34:12.
From the very start, Ava set a relentless pace, showcasing not just physical strength but a mental fortitude that left spectators and competitors in awe. Every kilometre she conquered was a testament to years of dedication, training, and unyielding passion. Her performance was not just about crossing the finish line first—it was about mastering the marathon, turning grueling miles into a display of precision, resilience, and heart.
A talented underage basketball player, Crean took up running during Covid to keep fit but wasn’t immediately jogging around the roads of her native Mungret.
But it soon became clear she had a natural gift for the sport. While studying Sports and Exercise Science at Manchester’s University Academy 92 — cofounded by members of Manchester United’s famous Class of ’92 — Ava began to channel her competitive drive into running. What started as a way to stay active quickly evolved into a deep passion and purpose.
In April, she made her marathon debut in Manchester, initially hoping just to complete the race. Instead, she stunned herself and others by clocking an incredible 2:49:26, finishing as the fastest runner in the 18–23 age category across both men and women. That performance hinted at what was to come — a glimpse of a rising star with the potential to redefine Irish distance running.
Ava’s triumph in Dublin, just months later, confirmed it beyond doubt. Her journey from a casual lockdown runner to national champion is nothing short of extraordinary — a testament to how quickly talent can flourish when matched with discipline, belief, and an unrelenting work ethic.
Ava’s story resonates far beyond the race itself. For aspiring athletes across Ireland, she is a beacon of inspiration, proving that discipline, ambition, and perseverance can turn dreams into reality. Her achievement underscores the growing talent in Irish athletics, reminding us all that the next generation of champions is already here, ready to push boundaries and set new standards.
But Ava Crean is more than her medal. She embodies the spirit of determination, the courage to challenge oneself, and the joy of pursuing excellence. In a sport where every second counts and every decision matters, Ava’s rise is a story of focus, grit, and unshakeable ambition.
As Ireland celebrates her triumph, the message is clear: Ava Crean is a name to watch. With this remarkable victory at the Irish Life Dublin Marathon, she has not only claimed the national title but also captured the imagination of a nation. The future is bright, and Ava is leading the way.
Article : Robert Heuston Photo : Sportsfile/Sam Barnes