Newry City Runners - Our Coaches
The Club has awesome coaches, coaching assistants and running leaders. Coaches are on hand to provide expert guidance and support to help you achieve that personal best in all distances from 5k to the marathon. During 2021 we helped all of our runners who wanted to follow a dedicated training plan to improve their performances, with 80% achieving a personal best.
Meet Our Coaches
Damien Maguire
Damien brings a calm, encouraging presence to our coaching team. Known for his structured approach and love of long‑distance running, he enjoys helping runners build confidence and consistency week by week. Whether you’re chasing a marathon PB or taking on your first big race, Damien’s steady guidance and supportive nature make him a favourite among members.
Damien is a Sub 3:15 Marathon runner,1:30 half marathon & 40 minute 10k runner
Karen McElroy
Karen is passionate about helping runners discover what they’re capable of. She’s a strong advocate for women in sport and brings a warm, uplifting energy to every session she leads. Karen loves seeing runners grow in confidence, and her friendly, approachable style makes her a brilliant coach for anyone looking to progress at their own pace.
Karen is a Sub 4 hour Marathon runner and 2 hour Half Marathon runner
Damian Mulholland
Damian is a dedicated coach who thrives on helping runners push past their comfort zones. He has a great eye for technique and enjoys guiding members through speed work, race preparation, and structured training blocks. Damian’s mix of encouragement and practical advice makes him a reliable mentor for runners of all levels.
Damian is a Sub 3 hour marathon runner, sub 1:30 half marathon & 40 minute 10k runner
Willie McCracken
Willie is a founder member of Newry City Runners and a long‑standing pillar of the local running community. With decades of experience and a deep understanding of endurance training, he supports coaches and runners alike with thoughtful guidance and strategic insight. You’ll find Willie at the track rain, hail, or shine, always ready to help, encourage, and share his love of the sport. A former elite marathoner, Willie ran an incredible 2:23 at the Dublin Marathon, a record that continues to inspire runners across the club. His dedication, consistency, and steady presence make him an invaluable part of Newry City Runners.
Cormac Cranney
Cormac brings over a decade of coaching experience to the club, along with a genuine passion for helping runners improve.
Eva Kitchen
Eva’s energy and enthusiasm make her a natural leader within the club.
She loves motivating runners during group sessions and brings a fun, upbeat atmosphere wherever she goes.
Eva is committed to helping others enjoy their running as much as she does, and her positivity has become a real driving force within the team.
Joanne McCluskey
Joanne is a thoughtful, supportive coach who excels at helping runners build confidence and find joy in their training. She has a wealth of experience and a warm, encouraging style that makes her especially popular with newer members. Joanne’s focus on steady progress and personal wellbeing reflects the heart of our club’s values.
Áine Fegan
Áine is a dedicated and inspiring coach who loves helping runners unlock their potential. She brings a blend of enthusiasm, knowledge, and race experience to the team, along with a friendly, approachable manner that puts everyone at ease. Áine’s commitment to supporting others makes her a fantastic role model within the club.
Jacqueline Early
Jacqueline is one of the newest members of our coaching team, bringing her passion for community running to the club.
A familiar face at both Rostrevor and Newry Greenway parkruns, she’s an avid runner and a dedicated volunteer who loves supporting others on their journey.
Aisling Murphy
Aisling is one of the newest additions to our coaching team, bringing great enthusiasm and a real love for community running.
She’s a dedicated club member who enjoys helping others discover their potential, whether they’re building up to their first 5k or chasing a new PB.
Aisling is a strong and steady runner herself, with impressive personal bests of 20:31 for 5k, 1:36 for the half marathon, and 4:05 for the marathon. Her friendly nature, encouragement, and commitment to supporting others make her a brilliant fit for the Newry City Runners coaching group.