Avondale Forest Park — 18 November 2025

A lively atmosphere filled Avondale Forest Park on Tuesday as 1,300 young athletes from primary and post-primary schools across Wicklow took part in the annual WIA 3km Trail Run. The crisp autumn morning created ideal running conditions as students tackled the undulating forest loop, cheered on by classmates, teachers, and families.

Primary Schools Open the Day With Fast, Competitive Waves

The primary races set the tone for an exciting programme, beginning with the 6th Class Boys who led off the first wave of the day. They were quickly followed by 5th, 4th and 3rd Class Boys, before the Girls’ waves followed in the same order, creating a seamless stream of eager runners weaving through the trees.

Oisín Kelly (Roundwood NS) delivered one of the standout performances of the morning to win the 6th Class Boys race, while Ciara Fay (Gaelscoil na gCloch Liath) showcased strong form to take top honours in the 6th Class Girls.

In the 5th Class races, Alfie Hurley (Roundwood NS) and Louisa Martin (Nuns Cross NS) were deserving winners, both showing composure and strength over the twisting woodland course.

The 4th Class saw Fionn Redmond (Rathdrum BNS) and Mya Milsana (Greystones Community NS) claim victories with confident, well-paced displays.

The 3rd Class events wrapped up the primary programme in a burst of enthusiasm, with Ben McNally (St Patrick’s NS, Greystones) and Orla O’Neill (Avoca NS) leading home two spirited fields.

Post-Primary Athletes Raise the Tempo

After a short transition to reset the course, the post-primary athletes stepped up to the start line.

In the First Year races, Lucas Kavanagh (CCA) and Alia Harris (St Gerard’s) impressed with decisive wins.

The Second Year Boys race was claimed by a strong final push from Eoghan O’Reilly (Glenart), while Jessica O’Connor (CCA) topped a competitive Second Year Girls field.

The Third Year races delivered high drama: Elliott Gethins (EGS) took control of the boys’ race, and the girls’ event was dominated by Gaelcholáiste na Mara, with Layla Dixon claiming first place.

The programme concluded with the Senior races, where experience and race craft shone through. Aaron Meredith (EGS) won the Senior Boys event with a confident performance, while Lara Buck (Coláiste Ráithín) powered to victory in the Senior Girls race.

A full list of results is available here

Behind the Scenes: Volunteers Power the Event

While the athletes provided the excitement on course, the day’s success was built on the dedication of a hardworking volunteer team.

Noreen, Pat and Annemarie were on-site early, carefully laying out the trail markings, taping routes, setting signage, and preparing the course for the 1,300 runners who would later charge through the forest.

At the start line, the ever-reliable race starter Cyril led the waves with his calm, clear instructions — supported this year by Theresa, who worked alongside him to organise runners, coordinate each group, and ensure smooth, timely starts throughout the morning.

On commentary, Bill kept the crowd informed and energised, providing updates, race insights, and plenty of encouragement as athletes approached the finish.

The finish line itself ran efficiently under the watchful eyes of Susan, Annemarie and Emma, who recorded placings, supported tired finishers, and ensured accurate and timely results for each race.

The event simply couldn’t run without this committed group, whose teamwork and enthusiasm underpin the entire operation.