The 2026 Triathlon Ireland Duathlon season got underway in style at Punchestown Racecourse on Sunday, 18th January, with athletes lining up for the first of three Galco Naas Duathlons for 2026, hosted by Naas Tri Club. As the first race of the 2026 Duathlon National Series, anticipation was high, and the strong turnout reflected the enthusiasm of competitors eager to kick off their racing year.
Conditions on the morning were cool but bright with only a small threat of rain, offering good racing conditions for the run on the flat and rolling Punchestown Racecourse circuit and undulated bike course on the surrounding roads. With a mass start overlooking the racecourse, spectators were able to watch from the stands and be treated to exciting racing from start to finish.
The Open race got off to a fast start, with Evan Tosh and Ross Killalea setting the early pace on the opening 3.2km run. Coming into T1, in just under 10 minutes, setting up for the challenging 19km bike leg just as the rain began.
Out on the bike, just 30 seconds behind, Evan Tosh put in the quickest ride of the day at 00:32:15 but with a close gap, a tight battle developed for the number one spot as the field prepared for the final leg of the race.
Coming out of T2 in just 45 seconds, On the closing run, Killalea held the 30 second gap to secure the win, while Evan Tosh and Cian Connolly fought it to the finish line with just 23 seconds between them.
The female race delivered another thrilling contest, with Grainne O’Hagan (40-44) leading the field on the run, with Maura Berry in second (45-49) heading into T1 with a 12:43 first split. Close behind was Fiona Riordan keeping the pressure on from the early stages.
A strong bike leg from Maura Barry (45-49) proved decisive, as she powered through the course to take the lead with a split of 00.34:29 heading into the final run. Despite determined efforts from the Martina McIntyre (55-59) with well practiced transitions coming in at 40 seconds and 52 seconds respectively, Maura maintained her advantage to take the first win of the 2026 duathlon season.
Behind her, the battle for the remaining podium spots went right down to the line, with McIntyre edging out Grainne O Hagan by three seconds.
Full results can be found HERE
