David runs to gold in Swiss race
David Naylor from Ballina was the recent winner of the Auenstein to Aarau 10k.
Athletics: Mayo AC’s current standout long-distance runner, David Naylor, has kicked off 2026 with an impressive performance. The Ballina native, now based in Switzerland, recently triumphed in a series of races, culminating in a victorious 10k run last Sunday, June 14.
The Auenstein to Aarau 10k is a flat and picturesque event, designed for both runners and Nordic walkers. As part of the annual Aare Lauf & Aare Trail event, it takes place in the beautiful Canton of Aargau, Switzerland. Starting in Auenstein and finishing at the Maienzugplatz/Viehmarkt in the heart of Aarau, the course is very accessible, featuring just 33 metres of uphill and 17 downhill.
David Naylor showed his exceptional talent by winning the 2026 edition of the race with a remarkable time of 34:13.
This year, David has been in phenomenal form, finishing second in two other 10k races: in Basel, Switzerland, in March with a personal best of 33:02, and in Carney, Co. Sligo, in April with a time of 33:18.
Coming from a highly athletic family, David is inspired by his parents, Ronnie and Mary, who have enjoyed successful running careers spanning over forty years. They played a crucial role in founding Mayo AC, being among its first members, and over the years both have achieved success in numerous track and road events.
