You’ve probably heard the saying, “Age is just a number.” But few truly live it. At 85, one man proved it in spectacular fashion. Amid over 22,500 runners at this year’s Irish Life Dublin Marathon, some chasing records, others running for charity, he arrived with a different mission: to remind the world that limits are a mindset. As Dublin Mayor Ray McAdams put it, he “epitomises the true spirit of the Dublin Marathon.” And when he crossed that finish line, he didn’t just complete a race; he made a statement that turned heads across Ireland.

Enter Kevin Stynes at 85. He proudly completed his 42nd and final Dublin Marathon, finishing in 6:18:4, making him the oldest runner to cross the line this year. After completing the marathon, it was a statement to the younger generation that was loud and clear: get off the couch and start moving. At 85, Stynes is living proof that age is just a number. Even before the Dublin Marathon, Stynes had already been honored with the Dublin Lord Mayor’s Medal for his remarkable fundraising efforts for Down Syndrome Ireland. Speaking to RTÉ News, the humble veteran admitted feeling “shocked and embarrassed,” adding, “I don’t feel I deserve it.”

He might have felt a bit embarrassed and overwhelmed by all the recognition, but it was the perfect way to end a remarkable running career. Surprised? You shouldn’t be. This wasn’t Stynes’ first marathon; he’s been running them for over four decades. The veteran first laced up at 43 and never looked back. Each grueling race carried a purpose, as he dedicated every marathon to raising funds for worthy causes.

What started as fun and games soon became deeply personal in 2000, when Stynes’ beloved granddaughter Rachael was born with Down syndrome. From that moment, he made it his mission to support the cause, raising crucial funds and spreading awareness for Down Syndrome Ireland. In recognition of his incredible dedication, Dublin’s 358th Lord Mayor, Ray McAdams, honoured him with the 2025 Lord Mayor’s Medal before the race began.

Talking about Kevin Stynes earlier this month, the Dublin Mayor expressed, “His lifelong dedication to supporting Down Syndrome Ireland through his marathon running is nothing short of inspirational. At 85 years of age, completing his 42nd marathon in a row, Kevin is a role model for all of us in courage, kindness, and perseverance. It is an honour to present him with the Lord Mayor’s Medal in recognition of his extraordinary journey.” Well, the Mayor is not the only one who celebrated Kevin’s finale in high fashion.

Dublin Marathon quotes Kevin Stynes as one of the greats

For the last four decades, Kevin has been lining up with thousands of participants to run the Dublin Marathon with a single purpose: to raise awareness about Down Syndrome. His selfless work for thousands of people living with the condition has been nothing short of heartwarming, and receiving the Lord Mayor’s Medal is the perfect icing on the cake to conclude his remarkable career. He now joins the select few individuals who have earned this prestigious honor.

Celebrating his career,  the Irish Life Dublin Marathon spokesperson reflected on Kevin’s incredible journey, saying, “Kevin ran his first Dublin Marathon at the age of 43, beginning a remarkable tradition of taking on the race every single year. From the start, he dedicated each marathon to raising funds for worthy causes, but his efforts took on a deeply personal meaning in 2000, when his beloved granddaughter Rachael was born with Down Syndrome.”

They further added, “Over the years, his efforts have made a lasting difference to children and families supported by the organisation. Kevin’s story is one of resilience, compassion, and extraordinary commitment.” From his first marathon to his last, it was not just for himself but for a cause that has helped a considerable number of people. He might have left the sport, but his legacy will continue to inspire the runners and communities across Ireland and the World.