Team Ireland returning home with largest ever haul of medals from World Masters Champs in Tampere, Finland, with a magnificent total of 56. This was just 4 shy of the 60 won in Braga at European Masters Indoors back in March, but on this occasion, competing against Athletes from all over the World. It is particularly pleasing to see medals been won in the field events & teams are continuing to improve & pick up medals in the relays. This is down to all the hard work put in by the 2 relay background crew. Medals were also spread right across age categories from 35 up to 75 years of age
full medal list available here
Would like to thank all the Committee who worked behind the scenes in advance of both Championships, especially International Sec Pat O’Grady & George Maybury who would have processed & approved entries. Also to Team Managers, Anne Gormley, Sean McMullin, Patrick Crossan, who did Trojan work out at both Championships, with Leanne Wellings, Ronan Gately plus few others who also stepped in to assist & ensure that there was a smooth transition throughout & help resolve any issues. Also to Ian Egan who again was at both Champs & helped ensure that Athletes received Physio treatment. We had heard nothing but good reports from his assistance. Like also to give a big mention to Michael Cornyn, who apart from competing himself, also provided numerous race videos & commentary plus post event interviews, recording valuable mementos for those competing & providing footage for all. Apologies if I have omitted anyone.
Finally to all those traveling Athletes & supporters, a big thank you. You are continuing to show that Irish Master Athletes are competing & beating the best in the World. Apart from the extensive medallists listed above, there were quite a few who finished agoniesly short, but should be equally proud of making finals or achieving PBs.
For those whose appetite is whetted by International Competition, IMRA are hosting World Mountain Champs in Comeragh in Sept. Will provide more info on this over the coming weeks. Can also start thinking about World Masters Indoors in Torun, Poland in 2023.
Closer to home, AAI Irish Life Masters T&F Champs will be hosted by Tullamore Hrs on 13th Aug. Please see www.athleticsireland.ie for online entry which should open shortly.
Mike Fennell
President/Sec IMAA