The field for the 2002 Rás na hÉireann Cross Country International is taking shape led by two-time winner Séamus Power from Clare. The Rás is hosted by Dunleer Athletic Club which was founded 1896 and is Ireland's oldest international race beginning in 1969. Joining Power on the Irish team are Vinny Mulvey and Fiachra Lombard. Mark Carroll and Keith Kelly are battling niggling injuries but hope to heal in time for the race. Kelly is a native of Drogheda in County Louth.

England's team will be led by Sydney 2000 Olympic finalist Karl Keska, Sam Haughian and Ben Noad, who placed second at this year's Loughrea race. The prerace favourite has to be Ethiopian Alemu Dagne who placed sixth in Sydney 5,000 metre final.

Reigning Irish champion Anne Keenan Buckley from Laois, the 2000 Rás winner and 2001 runner-up is returning the women's race. Rosemary Ryan (Bilboa AC) will also be running on the Irish team.

The Rás na hÉireann is the second of six races in the Athletics Association of Ireland Cross Country Grand Prix Series. Athletes competing in any four of the events qualify for cash prizes. The other races are the National Inter County Championships held on 25th November in Dungarvan; Fila International in Belfast, North Ireland on 19th January; NIAF Championships in Coleraine on 16th February; National Inter Club Championships at ALSAA Dublin on 24th February; and the National Short Course Championship also at ALSAA on 10th March. Points are awarded to the first 20 in each event, with 21 points for the winner down to one point for 20th. The best four scores count. Cash prizes go to the best six men and women overall as follows; 1st £1250, 2nd £750, 3rd £500, 4th £250, 5th £150, and 6th £100.