The 2025 Cork City Sports was officially launched with a special event at The River Lee Hotel, bringing together athletes, officials, sponsors, and media to mark the beginning of this year’s journey toward one of Ireland’s premier international athletics meetings.
Cork City Sports President, Frank Walley, opened proceedings by reflecting on the proud history of the event, now in its 71st year, and its vital role in showcasing world-class athletics in Cork. He spoke passionately about the legacy of Cork City Sports and the lasting impact it has had on Irish and international track and field.
Lord Mayor of Cork, Cllr. Fergal Dennehy, delivered a heartfelt speech on the role of sport in shaping the identity and vibrancy of Cork City. He described Cork City Sports as one of the city’s most cherished annual events, blending elite international competition with strong local pride. The Lord Mayor commended the organisers for continuing to inspire the next generation of athletes and for placing Cork firmly on the international athletics map.
Athletics Ireland President, Brid Golden, followed with an inspiring address highlighting the importance of hosting top-tier international competitions in Ireland. She also shared her personal connection to the event, having been an athlete at the esports on a number of occasions, and praised Cork City Sports for its professionalism, community spirit, and consistent delivery of elite-level sport.
Meet Director Mark Walk then gave an exciting preview of what fans can expect at this year’s event. He outlined a stellar line-up of international and Irish athletes set to compete against the International competition, including new para-athletics events and high-performance races that promise another memorable evening of athletics in Cork.
Gráinne McGuinness, Editor of The Echo and EchoLive.ie, spoke on behalf of the sponsors. She reaffirmed The Echo‘s long-standing support of Cork City Sports and underlined the importance of media and corporate partnership in sustaining such a prestigious fixture on the Irish sporting calendar.
With preparations in full swing, this year’s Cork City Sports promises to deliver another unforgettable night of world-class athletics at the MTU Stadium. The countdown is officially on.
