A terrific medal haul for pair of talented athletes
DAY one of the 2018 Galway Track and Field Senior/Masters Championships was held in perfect conditions last Thursday, with a large turnout across the various events held at the Dangan track, NUI Galway.
There were some impressive performances on the evening, notably by Katie O’Donoghue of Craughwell AC who claimed an four senior titles – the long jump in a PB of 4.92m, javelin, shot putt and the 100m hurdles. Michael Breathnach of GCH also had a successful first day as he claimed triple gold – winning the 110m hurdles, javelin, and long jump.
On the track, Conor Duggan of Craughwell looked impressive on his return to action, winning the Galway senior 100m in 11.20. Conor Naylor of NUI Galway took the 400m crown in 53.31, while Ciara Barry of NUI Galway ran strongly to claim both the women’s 100m and 400m titles.
In the distance events, Brendan McDonnell of GCH and Sinead Gaffney of Craughwell took the 1500m titles respectively, while Seamus Leddy of GCH and Fiona Doughan of Athenry AC claimed the 3000m Walk golds. In the field, Brendan Staunton of GCH took gold in the shot putt.
Irish Schools
The Irish Schools Championships will be held on Saturday in Tullamore, with many Galway athletes competing for medals in what is probably the most competitive event on the athletics calendar.
Contenders for National honours at Junior level will include Emma Moore of Presentation Athenry in the 800m, and St Enda’s Uyi Agbonayinma in either the 200m or 800m. At minor level, Galway’s hopes rest with the likes of Ava McKeon of AM Ballinasloe, Darragh Jennings of Carraroe, Callum Healy from Presentation Athenry, and St Mary’s Joshua Osifo. In the field events, Jade Moorehead and Lukas Schukat, both of Presentation College, Athenry will be among those who will be going for glory.
For more, read this week’s Galway City Tribune.