Alex O Shea fundraising for Irish Guide Dogs for the Blind with The 150 Club

Can lightning strike twice? Thirteen years ago, Alex O’Shea—Ireland’s "The Running Fireman"—defied the laws of endurance. Encased in heavy structural fire boots and a suffocating fire kit, he shattered the Guinness World Record at the Cork City Marathon in a blistering 3:41:10, raising vital funds for the Irish Guide Dogs for the Blind. After representing Ireland internationally, Alex hung up his Irish singlet on his 49th birthday. But at 53, he is stepping back onto the start line of the 2027 Cork City Marathon for a challenge that borders on the impossible. To honor the 150th anniversary of the Cork Fire Brigade, Alex is lining up in full fire kit once more. But this time, the stakes are higher, the body is older, and the margin for error is absolute zero. The Ultimate Test of Endurance Alex is adding a fully enclosed Breathing Apparatus (BA) to his kit to chase a new Guinness World Record. The Reality: Breathing entirely from an air tank through a sealed face mask for 26.2 miles. The Danger: Executing multiple high-speed cylinder changes on the run under strict world record rules. His fluid intake is restricted solely to the fleeting seconds the mask is off. The Toll: An unprecedented sweat rate trapped inside a heavy, waterproof kit, filling his boots and creating a perfect storm for debilitating blisters. Alex has survived -40°C in the Arctic, plunging through broken ice, and racing in 35°C Greek heat. Yet, this may be his hardest battle ever. Join the 150 Club He will not stand alone. Alex is spearheading the 150 Club—a team of firefighters and the public tackling the Full, Half, and 10k distances. If you have an entry, make your miles matter. Join the team for exclusive WhatsApp access, expert mentoring, and the pride of wearing the historic 150 Club medal. Every single euro changes lives. Stand with Alex. Remember if you are running Cork marathon, 1/2 or 10k you can join our or team for the Irish guide dogs for the blind. More info: www.therunningfireman.ie

About Irish Guide Dogs for the Blind

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One community changing lives Irish Guide Dogs for the Blind (IGDB) is Ireland’s national charity dedicated to enabling people who are vision impaired and families of children with autism to achieve improved mobility and independence. For over 40 years we have worked with our community of Breeders, Puppy Raisers, Home Socialisers, Temporary Boarders, Trainers, Staff, Volunteers and supporters to change as many lives as possible. Did you know? We currently have nearly 400 Guide and Assistance Dogs Clients in Ireland All of our services are provided free of charge It costs over €5 million to run our organisation each year We receive over 85% of our income through voluntary donations and fundraising through our Branch network across the country

About Analog Devices Cork City Marathon 2027

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Organised by Cork City Council, the Analog Devices Cork City Marathon has three distances: the Full Marathon, Half Marathon, and 10K race. The routes weave through Cork City’s scenic and vibrant streets and suburbs, past iconic landmarks and along the bustling quays. The incredible support from Corkonians lining the streets, paired with the camaraderie among participants, guarantees a memorable day for all.

The  Analog Devices Cork City Marathon is open to all, from elite athletes chasing records to first-time runners tackling personal goals. It's more than a race—it’s about community, resilience, and making a difference.
 
As a full member of AIMs the Analog Devices Cork City Marathon is IAAF certified.
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