Medal Success at All-Ireland Schools
There were superb medal successes for Co. Longford schools at the All-Ireland Track and Field Championships in Tullamore last weekend.
A fantastic Friday evening began with a brilliant performance by Robin Óg Murphy (Mercy Ballymahon) as she won a gold medal in the Inter 2km Walk. As the race entered the final stages, Robin Óg traded places at the front with Savannagh O’Callaghan (Tuam) on the last lap before opening a lead on the home straight to cross the line first in 9:32. A great achievement for Robin Óg who has worked hard on her technique in the event in recent months and her dedication certainly paid off.
There was further local success when Emma Brennan (Moyne CS) won a silver medal in the Inter 1500m Steeplechase. In what was another exciting finish, four girls were in contention for the medals at the final water jump with Dearbhla Allen (Dundalk) at the front and she would hold on for the win ahead of a fast-finishing Emma in second with 5:13. Emma claimed a superb National silver medal in what was only her second ever Steeplechase race.
Both girls will take to the start line again at the Tailteann Games later in June vying to secure a qualifying place for next month’s Schools International in Wales.
Emma was back on the Tullamore track on Saturday for the Under-16 mile and was in the mix for a medal until the closing stages before crossing the line in fifth place clocking a quick 5:18 in the warm conditions.
Saturday also saw Seán Grealy (St. Mel’s College) and Holly Rogers (Scoil Mhuire Strokestown) running strongly against quality opposition in the 100m. A headwind ruled out any fast times, but it was good experience for both ahead of the upcoming club championships.
Friday evening last saw further local success came when Aisling Lane (Mercy Ballymahon) won a gold medal in the Senior 3km Walk. One final school’s National success for Mullingar Harriers athlete Aisling adding to her collection of medals won over the years.
Results
John Scott made the trip south for Sunday’s Cork City Marathon. On a warm morning on Leeside, John covered the distance strongly on a challenging course in three hours.
Marissa Hebron was among the 25,000 who completed the Mini Marathon in Dublin achieving a personal best for the 10k.
Connacht Track and Field
Best of luck to the 35 young Longford athletes competing at the provincial track and field juvenile championships on Saturday in Claremorris.
Good Luck
Best wishes to all club members commencing exams this week.
