Olympian YAC’s Sean Mc Ginley represented Ulster and N. Ireland at the Under-18 World Mountain Running International Cup, held under the historic Roman Arch of Susa in Italy.
Sean ran, as always, with great heart and determination and came a super 24th overall.
Sean was the first Irishman home; a massive achievement in his first performance at this level.
This is a extraordinary achievement for this,hard working young athlete; a just reward for all his endeavours and dedication to training over the past few years.
This was his first time competing on a World stage. The Donegal athlete has another year in this event and age category, so there’s surely more to come in the future.
O’Donnell’s become Master’s of the Track and Field
Meanwhile, Olympian YAC’s O’Donnell trio of coaches Michelle, Martin and Karen recently competed at the All Ireland Masters Track and Field Championships, Tullamore, Co Offaly and took the competition by storm as they amassed a very impressive 7 Championship medals between them.
First up in the field was Michelle in the W35 Javelin. Whilst the warmup throws were taking place sister Karen took to the track in the first track event of the day W35 100m.
Having won her heat in a seasons best of 13.65secs, she had to wait for the second heat to see if the gold was up for grabs. However, neighbouring athlete from Letterkenny, Kathryn Mc Devitt won the second heat in 13:35secs to take well deserved gold and Karen was rewarded with the silver medal for her efforts.
Karen went straight to join sister Michelle at the javelin who had an opening throw in the first round of 25.45m setting herself up for the gold medal position. In the third round Karen threw 23.42m putting herself in the silver medal position.
After a total of four rounds Michelle held on to the lead and took the title of All Ireland Champion with sister Karen taking another silver medal.
Older brother Martin, in his new age category M45, stepped out on the track to line up for the 100m. Clocking a swift 12.31sec he picked up the silver medal.
Later that day he also contested the 200m event and clocked a seasons best of 25.57secs to claim another brilliant silver medal.
Overall it was a great day at the office which no doubt was great preparation for the upcoming Masters European Championships in Venice for Martin at beginning of September.
Next up saw Karen in her second sprint event the 200m. She also clocked a seasons best of 28.24sec for yet another silver medal. Karen later in the day saved her best to last when she contested the 400m.
She led from gun to tape and could not be caught as she came away as with the gold medal and mantle of All Ireland Champion.
