Gas Networks staff hit roads around Cork to show community support

For a 12th year, the Gas Networks Ireland Cork BHAA (Business Houses Athletic Association) 5km road race returned on the Blackrock to Mahon Greenway.

The race is held annually as part of an ongoing commitment from Gas Networks Ireland towards employee wellbeing and community support.

Gas Networks Ireland has also aimed to promote workplace wellbeing through projects such as its Time to Talk mental health programme, Work Safe Home Safe, and dedicated occupational health and wellbeing supports.

Gas Networks Ireland director of business services Ian O’Flynn said: 

“This event reflects the power of community and the value of investing in employee wellbeing. It’s about more than running, it’s about connection, confidence, and care.”

More than 650 participants completed the race on July 16, including 49 employees from Gas Networks Ireland who had taken part in the company’s internal Couch to 5K training programme over the past couple of months.

“I never imagined myself running a 5km race but the support from colleagues and the structured programme made it achievable and actually enjoyable”, said Gas Networks Ireland’s finance manager Trish Deasy, who took part in the Couch to 5K programme.

In the men’s race, Gavin O’Rourke crossed the line first in a time of 15 minutes and two seconds, followed one second later by Eoghan O’Connor, and ahead of Nathan O’Leary in third place, who had a time of 15 minutes and five seconds.

The women’s race saw Hannah Steeds secure the top spot in a time of 16 minutes and 33 seconds. 

Emma Fitzpatrick came second and finished in 17 minutes and 32 seconds, while Sharon Rynne finished one second later, coming in third.

Ross Gallagher won the visually impaired division, finishing the race in a time of 23 minutes and 36 seconds.

The Business Houses Athletic Association is a voluntary organisation that promotes physical activity and team spirit by encouraging work colleagues to train and compete together in a series of road races.