In January, Ann had finished 76 races – but she said that was a ‘stupid number to stop at’
14:24, 11 Nov 2025Updated 15:37, 11 Nov 2025
Youghal woman Ann O’Neill after finishing the New York Marathon(Image: theline_show / TikTok)
For most people, just finishing one marathon is a massive achievement and something they’ll likely be proud of for the rest of their lives.
But Youghal woman Ann O’Neill has her sights set much higher, and aims to finish 100 marathons before taking off her running shoes for good and easing into retirement. The Cork mum started out around 20 years ago with a dear friend of hers from Galway, and recently finished her 79th event at the world-renowned New York race last week. At her peak, Ann was doing one marathon a month – equalling over 500km annually in these races alone, not including training or smaller events.
And Ann’s overall marathon count would likely be much higher, but she had to put her running hold for a while after being diagnosed with breast cancer. Now however, she says she’s “all good” and her next goal is to complete ‘Marathon Majors’, which include races held in Tokyo, Boston, London, Berlin, Chicago and New York.
Ann’s not one to brag about her achievements – but her story recently went viral on social media after she was interviewed by American influencer Dr Kristen Holmes. The TikToker and podcast host caught up with Ann after she had crossed the finish line in New York on Sunday, November 2nd.
Dr Holmes was left speechless when Ann told her she was almost at her 80th marathon, and had done three already this year. When asked what her big motivation was, she said that in January she had completed 76 races – and that was a “stupid number to stop at.” You can check out the full interview below.
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The comments were flooded with people praising Ann for her very impressive racing history – with many calling her an “inspiration” and wishing her luck in reaching the big no. 100.
One person wrote: “What a legend, glorious woman. We need more people like her.” Another added: “From a fellow Irish woman and breast cancer survivor, you’re some woman for one woman. Absolutely incredible.”
A third commented: “I just signed up for my first and terrified. Amazing woman. I will be thinking of her during my training.”
Ann’s not the only Cork runner making waves in the marathon scene at the moment. Just last month, young Fearghal Curtin – of Youghal AC – made headlines when he shaved a minute and a half off the Irish marathon record in South Korea in a stunning display. It was only his second-ever marathon.
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