Morton Games 2026 recap
The 2026 Morton Games once again delivered a spectacular evening of international athletics at Morton Stadium, with Dublin City University athletes and alumni playing leading roles in front of a passionate home crowd. The World Athletics Continental Tour Bronze meeting attracted world-class competition to Santry and showcased the strength of the DCU athletics community from current students right through to established international performers.
Among the current DCU student-athletes, Emma Moore produced an excellent run in the women's 800m, finishing fourth in a highly competitive field with a time of 2:02.41. Jack Raftery continued his impressive season with a fourth-place finish in the men's 400m, clocking 45.88 against a strong international line-up. Meanwhile, sprinters Michael Farrelly proudly represented DCU on the international programme, with Farrelly posting 10.61 in his 100m heat against a field featuring some of the fastest athletes in the meet.
DCU alumni were equally prominent throughout the evening. Sophie Becker delivered another high-quality performance in the women's 400m, claiming second place in 52.65 seconds, narrowly behind race winner Kinga Gacka of Poland.
Cillian Kirwan produced a strong performance in the men's 800m. Competing in a high-quality field, Kirwan finished third in 1:47.27, leading the Irish contingent home.
In the famous Morton Mile, Cathal Doyle was right in the mix as always, finishing fourth in an outstanding 3:52.24. Fellow DCU alumnus Colin Smith also featured in the prestigious race, running 3:58.34 to break the four-minute barrier once again on the historic Santry track.
The men's 5000m saw more DCU graduates make their mark. Brian Fay produced another top-class performance, finishing seventh in 13:18.32, while Cormac Dalton crossed the line in 13:55.85 in a race packed with quality and fast times throughout the field.
While track performances naturally grab the headlines, the success of the Morton Games is built on far more than the athletes alone. Everyone involved in organising the event deserves enormous credit for creating such a memorable occasion. From Clonliffe Harriers, Athletics Ireland, Fingal County Council and the many volunteers, officials and support staff, to the strong contribution of DCU and DCU Sport, the event once again demonstrated why Morton Games has become one of the highlights of the Irish athletics calendar.
Particular praise must go to all involved in DCU Sport, whose partnership with the event helped ensure Morton Stadium looked magnificent as it welcomed athletes from across the globe. The atmosphere, presentation and professionalism on display reflected the standards of a truly world-class meeting.
For one evening in Santry, DCU's past, present and future came together on the same track. From emerging student-athletes gaining valuable international experience to alumni competing at an elite level. The performances were impressive, the crowd was engaged, and the setting was superb, a fitting celebration of athletics and another proud night for the DCU community.
