Donal's Tokyo success takes him into ranks of exclusive marathon club

Castlepollard native Donal Cassidy has joined one of the most exclusive clubs in distance running after completing the Tokyo Marathon on Sunday, March 1.

Clocking an impressive 3 hours and 27 minutes in near-perfect conditions of 17 degrees under clear blue skies, Donal secured the Abbott World Marathon Majors Six Star Medal — an honour achieved by only around 23,000 runners worldwide.

By crossing the finish line in Tokyo, Donal completed the full set of Abbott World Marathon Majors, placing him among a select international community of endurance athletes who have conquered the sport’s most prestigious races: the Boston Marathon, Berlin Marathon, Chicago Marathon, London Marathon, New York City Marathon and Tokyo.

His marathon journey began in 2017 when he lined out for his first Major in London. Over the following nine years, he travelled across three continents in pursuit of a long-term ambition — steadily ticking off each of the iconic races required to earn the coveted medal.

Sunday’s run through the streets of Tokyo was the final step in that global quest. Far from simply completing another marathon, Donal was sealing his place in an elite worldwide fraternity of runners who have demonstrated extraordinary commitment, resilience and endurance.

Speaking afterwards, he described the moment as deeply rewarding.

“The conditions were ideal and the atmosphere was incredible,” he said. “To finally receive the Six Star medal after starting this journey in 2017 is something very special. From Castlepollard to Tokyo, it’s been an amazing experience and one I’ll always remember.”

For Donal, the achievement represents not just a personal milestone, but entry into a rare tier of marathon runners whose dedication has taken them to the starting lines — and finish lines — of the world’s greatest races.