Armagh City athlete Dearbhla Cox has claimed an incredible victory in the women’s race at the 2025 Belfast City Half Marathon earlier today (Sunday), crossing the line in 1:18:18 – just months after becoming a new mum.
Representing Belfast-based Annadale Striders, Dearbhla edged out strong competition from Judith Storm of City of Derry Spartans, who finished just 15 seconds behind in 1:18:33.
Third place went to experienced distance runner Gladys Ganiel of North Belfast Harriers in 1:19:38.
Her triumph came on what was a record-breaking day for the event, with close to 7,500 participants taking part in the 12th edition of the half marathon, making it the biggest in Northern Ireland to date.
While Letterkenny AC’s Stephen McAuley took the overall men’s crown in 1:06:05, it was Dearbhla’s performance that drew plenty of attention locally, with her win putting Armagh firmly on the athletics map once again.
Sinn Féin Councillor Sarah Duffy said: “Huge congratulations to Armagh City’s very own Dearbhla Cox for her incredible victory in the women’s event at the Moy Park Belfast Half-Marathon at Ormeau! Facing more than 7,000 runners, she crossed the finish line in 78:18 – and all this just months after becoming a new mum.
“We’re so proud of her determination, strength, and achievement. What an inspiration!”
The event also featured a wheelchair race, with Jayne Bleakley winning the women’s title in 1:12:50, and Jim Corbett taking the men’s race in 1:14:57.
