ABOUT US
PROUDLY SPONSORED BY
AS SEEN IN
ICE CAP ADVENTURES
The Great World Race is organised by Ice Cap Adventures Ltd. The CEO of the company and Race Director of the event is David Kelly. A doctor and former Irish x-country international runner, he has travelled to the North Pole and Antarctica on numerous occasions to medically oversee endurance competitions. David has a medical degree from Trinity College Dublin and an Accountancy Degree from University of Galway, Ireland. Dave will be accompanied with a travelling support team of top professionals, all with extensive international experience that includes the polar regions. Among them, photographers and cameramen who will ensure every special marathon moment is captured for competitors and global media.
OUR TEAM
David Kelly
race director, physician
CEO, Dr. David Kelly – former international athlete, veteran of multiple expeditions to polar regions and global events.
As a race organizer at Ice Cap Adventures Ltd, he combines his passion for international athletics and polar expeditions with his medical background and skills. He founded Ice Cap Adventures and The Great World Race, an innovative and challenging event that takes participants to the seven continents and the polar regions. He is responsible for the logistical and organisational aspects of these events, as well as the safety of the runners and the crew.
He has been a doctor for over 12 years, working for both the HSE and the NHS in Ireland and the UK.
David holds a M.B., B.Ch., B.A.O. (medical degree) from Trinity College Dublin and a BComm degree from National University of Ireland, Galway.
He has traveled to the Arctic and Antarctic regions, providing medical support and emergency response for the racers and the staff.
Dermot McDermott
professional athletics coach
Dermot McDermot is an esteemed Athletics Ireland Level 2 coach, proficiently coaching athletes across a variety of disciplines, ranging from the grassroots level all the way to international competitions. He boasts impressive achievements, including coaching a 2.12 marathon runner at the Irish Olympic Trials and mentoring an Irish U-20 60m Record Holder.
Dermot has a notable record in event organization, having managed major events. From development meets and indoor meets to World Record attempts. He has played a pivotal role in organizing international meets and successfully hosted an event where two overseas runners qualified for the Rio Olympics.
Dermot’s passion for athletics and community development shines through in his voluntary work as well. He is the founder and current manager of an innovative and highly successful talent identification program named “Fastest Feet,” which focuses on promoting health and fitness among children. His dedication to this cause has not only benefited the local community but has also garnered international attention, resulting in a strong partnership with the Millrose Games in New York.
JOE GALLAGHER
athlete, trainer, race coordinator
Joseph Gallagher brings elite athletic experience and a passion for participant success to The Great World Race. A dedicated personal trainer and former competitive athlete, Joe represented Ireland on the international stage in cross-country events, showcasing his endurance, discipline, and competitive spirit at the highest levels.
At the junior level, Joe achieved national recognition as the All-Ireland indoor champion in the 1500 meters, a title that speaks to his exceptional speed, strategy, and commitment to excellence. His background in both middle-distance track and endurance running uniquely positions him to support athletes navigating the physical and mental challenges of The Great World Race.
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