Brigid Dennehy

Brigid Dennehy is a runner based in Auckland, New Zealand, originally from County Kerry, Ireland. Since joining the North Harbour Bays running club in 2019, she has developed her running career while building a supportive community of like-minded athletes.

In 2025, Brigid made history at the Auckland Marathon, finishing first in the women’s category and setting a new course record with a time of 2:38:10. Her training philosophy combines discipline, consistency, and balance, highlights her commitment to both performance and well-being.

Brigid works full-time as a physiotherapist, bringing the same care to her patients as she does to her sport.

What’s your background, and how did you first find your way into running? What has it taught you about yourself over the years?

I first got into running in school maybe similar to most kids in order to get a day off! As someone who played a lot of team sports I enjoyed not having to rely on others to determine the outcome of a performance, that I could control the results to an extent.

When I moved to New Zealand I joined a running club as a way to meet people. I met amazing people, some of my best friends. I was surrounded by lots of talented, driven and ambitious women. It was contagious and I quickly caught the bug and this is where I started to take my running to a higher level.

What it has taught me and something I found motivating about it was that you got out of it what you put in although talent is helpful in running it can only take you so far. And I guess you transfer this into other aspects of life whether that is work, relationships, hobbies etc.

When you crossed the 2025 Auckland Marathon finish line, what was running through your mind, and what did that moment teach you about yourself?

WE DID IT! Although running is an individual sport, a marathon is definitely a team effort. I felt very lucky to have surrounded myself with some amazing people that helped me get here.

It can be normal to have doubts at times but moments like this remind me to have confidence in myself and my ability. 

Is there a mantra, phrase, or thought you return to when things get tough during training or race?

I do love mantras and often have to remind myself that I choose to do this when things get tough.

Particularly at the Auckland marathon I was reminding myself ‘if you think the price for pain is too high, wait until you get the bill for regret’. 

What’s something people don’t usually see about the discipline or mindset behind your achievements, and how do you hope that might inspire others?

I work full time as a physiotherapist while also trying to make it as a professional runner. It does take discipline and motivation to get up every morning before work and sometimes go out in the evening. But I also believe balance is important so I will usually work my running around maybe doing an activity with friends. I lead a pretty simple life and am proud of what I have achieved so far. I also love what I do which is usually half the battle. I hope it inspires people that with some hard work  and consistency they can also do what they love and follow their dreams. 

When you think about success beyond achievements and medals, what does it mean to you in running and in life?

Success to me in running is being healthy and enjoying what I am doing. In life success is being happy, healthy and connected with good people. 

We’re always inspired by the small, thoughtful moments in life. What’s one simple thing that brings you joy or peace each day?

I speak with my family most days, sometimes it's just a quick hello. They are very encouraging of me following my passions and I understand it is hard for them being so far away back in Ireland.. But I love hearing their voices and sharing a laugh with them. I am so grateful for them. 

Finally, what’s one piece of advice you’d give someone following their passions or chasing their dreams?

If you know what your passions or dreams are, go after it. The first step is often the hardest. When I moved to New Zealand, joining a running club was at the top of my priority list. I did not have a job or a place to live. I did not feel like my life was very stable. But if I could do one thing that I enjoyed and was surrounded by likeminded people I would be happy and therefore I believe attract the right job, flat, friends for me. 

Brigid wears The Heritage Baguette Necklace, Baguette Earrings, Baguette Ring and Bel e Viv Ring


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@brigiddennehy