The 123.ie National U20 & U23 Track and Field Championships in Tullamore showcased exceptional talent from Donegal, with several athletes shining in their respective categories.
Fintan Dewhirst from Glenties made headlines by breaking a championship record in the U-20 Men’s 400m Hurdles with a remarkable time of 51.54 seconds. This performance not only earned him a gold medal but also secured his spot in the upcoming World Athletics U-20 Championships in Lima, Peru.
Amy Greene of Finn Valley AC displayed her dominance by winning the U-20 Women’s 3000m Steeplechase, while Lauren Callaghan and Oisin Thompson secured a club double in the U-23 Long Jumps. Elsa Moore and Adrienne Gallen from Lifford-Strabane AC also delivered outstanding performances in the U-20 Women’s 5000m and U-23 Women’s Hammer Throw, respectively.
In addition to these victories, Ellie McCurdy from Lifford-Strabane AC triumphed in the U-20 Women’s Javelin Throw, showcasing the depth of talent in Donegal’s track and field community.
The competition was fierce, with athletes from various clubs across the country pushing themselves to the limit. Finn Valley AC’s Greene continued her winning streak by clinching another gold in the U-20 Women’s 3000m Steeplechase, demonstrating her exceptional skill and determination on the track.
Moore of Lifford-Strabane AC impressed in the U-20 Women’s 5000m, setting a strong pace and crossing the finish line ahead of her competitors. Gallen’s victory in the U-23 Women’s Hammer Throw highlighted her precision and technique in the field events, earning her a well-deserved gold medal.
The success of these athletes reflects the dedication and hard work they have put into their training, as well as the support of their coaches and clubs. The spirit of competition was alive and well in Tullamore, with athletes pushing themselves to new heights and inspiring the next generation of track and field stars.
As the championships came to a close, it was clear that Donegal had made its mark on the national stage, with a strong showing across multiple events. The future looks bright for these talented athletes, and we can expect to see more incredible performances from them in the years to come.