Jimmy Reardon, 1948 London Olympics

J.P. Reardon was among the first Olympians from Donore Harriers, representing Ireland at the London Olympics in 1948. His participation was part of Ireland's reentry into global athletics following World War II. A versatile runner, Reardon competed in middle-distance events, although specific race details from that year remain sparse. His career marked the beginning of a tradition of international representation for Donore Harriers, setting a precedent for athletes who followed in his footsteps. Reardon also played a pivotal role in popularizing the club’s reputation for producing Olympians.

Cumin Clancy, 1948 London Olympics

Clancy competed alongside J.P. Reardon in the 1948 London Games. Like Reardon, he represented Ireland in track events. His inclusion in this Olympic team demonstrated the growing influence of Donore Harriers in Irish athletics. Clancy’s participation during a challenging post-war period signified a broader resurgence in competitive athletics in Ireland.

Eamon Kinsella, 1956 Melbourne Olympics

E. Kinsella was an endurance athlete who represented Ireland at the 1956 Melbourne Olympics. Known for his stamina and dedication, Kinsella specialized in long-distance running, excelling in events like the 10,000 meters. His inclusion in the Melbourne Games further elevated the international standing of Donore Harriers as a club capable of developing world-class talent. Kinsella also contributed to Ireland's participation in the European Athletics Championships in 1954 and 1958.

Bertie Messitt, 1960 Rome Olympics

One of the most famous Irish athletes of his time, Bertie Messitt was a trailblazer in marathon running. Born in Bray, County Wicklow, Messitt joined Donore Harriers in the 1950s and quickly became a dominant force in long-distance running. He set several Irish records during his career and was known for his meticulous preparation and innovative training techniques.

Messitt competed in the marathon at the 1960 Rome Olympics, finishing 28th under gruelling conditions. Despite not winning a medal, his participation inspired a new generation of Irish marathoners. Beyond his Olympic appearance, Messitt represented Ireland at multiple international competitions, earning accolades for his consistent performances. His influence extended beyond his competitive years, as he became a mentor to younger runners at Donore Harriers​

Willie Dunne, 1960 Rome Olympics

Willie Dunne was another prominent figure in Irish athletics during the 1960s. Specializing in middle-distance events, Dunne represented Ireland at the Rome Olympics alongside Bertie Messitt. While details about his specific race results are limited, his contribution to the Irish Olympic team demonstrated the strength of Donore Harriers in producing high-caliber athletes. Dunne’s involvement in the sport extended beyond his competitive years, contributing to the club’s legacy.

Basil Clifford, 1964 Tokyo Olympics

Basil Clifford was known for his versatility as a middle-distance runner. He competed at the 1964 Tokyo Olympics, representing Ireland in events that highlighted his speed and endurance. Clifford was a key figure in Donore Harriers during a transformative era for the club, when it solidified its status as a powerhouse in Irish athletics. His Olympic journey was a testament to his commitment and the robust training environment provided by Donore Harriers.

Tom O’Riordan was an exceptional middle-distance runner and one of Ireland's finest athletes during the 1960s. Born in Kerry, he moved to the United States on an athletic scholarship, where he trained at Idaho State University before returning to represent Ireland.

O’Riordan competed in the 5,000 meters at the Tokyo Olympics. Although he did not medal, his performance was a highlight of his career, showcasing his tactical prowess and stamina. After his competitive career, O’Riordan became a respected journalist, writing extensively about Irish athletics and contributing to the sport’s growth​

Tom O’Riordan, 1964 Tokyo Olympics

Jim McNamara, 1976 Montreal Olympics

Jim McNamara was a celebrated long-distance runner whose dedication to the sport was unparalleled. At the 1976 Montreal Olympics, McNamara competed in the marathon, representing Ireland with distinction. His athletic career was marked by numerous national titles and a reputation for exceptional endurance.

McNamara’s connection to Donore Harriers extended beyond competition, as he served as a coach and mentor for younger athletes. His influence helped shape the club's ethos, emphasising hard work and a love for running​

Eamonn Coghlan, 1976 Montreal & 1980 Moscow Olympics

Known as "The Chairman of the Boards," Eamonn Coghlan was one of Ireland’s most accomplished middle-distance runners. Coghlan specialized in the mile and 1,500 meters, achieving global fame for his indoor track performances. His Olympic career included appearances in Montreal (1976) and Moscow (1980), where he reached the 1,500-meter final in both Games, narrowly missing a medal in 1980.

Coghlan went on to set a world record for the indoor mile and became the first man over 40 to run a sub-four-minute mile. His connection to Donore Harriers laid the foundation for his illustrious career, making him a source of inspiration for Irish athletes​

Sean Egan, 1980 Moscow Olympics

Sean Egan represented Ireland in middle-distance events at the 1980 Moscow Olympics. Competing in an era marked by political tensions and boycotts, Egan’s participation highlighted the resilience and determination of Irish athletes. Egan’s contributions to Donore Harriers, both as a competitor and a mentor, were instrumental in maintaining the club’s legacy.

Roman Linscheid, 1996 Atlanta Olympics

Roman Linscheid was a talented thrower who represented Ireland at the 1996 Atlanta Olympics. Although not a runner, his inclusion in this list underscores the diversity of athletic talent at Donore Harriers. Linscheid competed in throwing events, showcasing his strength and technical expertise. His achievements added another dimension to Donore Harriers' reputation as a well-rounded athletic club​

John Menton, 2000 Sydney Olympics

John Menton carved out an athletics career that saw him ranked as one of Ireland finest ever throwers. He won a staggering 26 national senior titles in the Discus and 56lb Weight-For-Distance (WDF) – and 16 Intervarsities crowns in 4 different throwing events. Menton is the Irish record-holder in the 56lb WFD event with a 9.16m throw at Santry in July 1998. His personal best Discus throw of 63.70m at Oakhurst, New Jersey on the 5th of July 2000 that qualified him for the 2000 Olympics, ranks Menton as 2nd on the all-time Irish list for the event.

Jack Raftery, 2024 Paris Olympics

Jack began his career as a committed juvenile athlete and competed at cross country but he soon showed his potential as a sprinter at the national and schools’ track championships when he won a bronze in the national U/17 400m. He continued to improve winning the national U/19 in 49.99, and then won a dramatic national junior final in 48.40. He was a member of the Irish 4 x 400m team at the European U/20 championships at Boras, Sweden, and won the national junior indoor 400m in January 2020. As a senior he won the national indoor 400m metre title in 2023, went on to represent Ireland in the mixed 4x 400 relay in the world championships in Budapest, won the national 400m title in 2024 and represented Ireland in the 4 x 400 relay in Paris" “Jack’s late coach John Geoghegan who did so much to bring out his potential as a teen would be so proud to see this selection

These Olympians exemplify the rich history of Donore Harriers, which has nurtured athletes capable of competing on the world stage. Their careers reflect the club’s commitment to excellence and its pivotal role in Irish athletics. For more detailed information on individual achievements, Donore Harriers' official website and archives are invaluable resources.