The commendable performance of the Irish team at the European Athletics Championships based in Rome marks an unprecedented accomplishment. In the past ninety years, extending across 25 incarnations of the championships, Ireland had never previously achieved the feat of securing four medals within one competition. The recent accomplishment of two gold and two silver medals exceeded their prior record of three medals in 1998.
Prior to the last Friday, the solitary Irish individual who claimed a European athletic title was Sonia O’Sullivan. However, we can now append the distinguished names of Ciara Mageean and the 4x400m mixed relay team, which consists of Chris O’Donnell, Rhasidat Adeleke, Thomas Barr and Sharlene Mawdsley.
Rhasidat Adeleke, a 21-year-old woman from Tallaght, distinguished herself as an exceptional talent, earning three medals, indicating a promising future. Irish athletes in Rome also set national records, securing personal and seasonal bests and gained top-10 rankings in numerous events.
This achievement did not occur in a vacuum. The trend towards achieving high performance in Irish athletics that has developed over recent years is now showing results. As athletics is a worldwide sport, there are few other sports where competition is as fierce at the top level.
The depiction of thriving in such a competitive environment is a testament to the talent and dedication of the Irish athletes. It’s important, however, to acknowledge the odds often stacked against them. Despite some improvements in infrastructure over the last 20 years, Ireland still struggles to offer enough grassroots support for young enthusiasts in the sport.
Athletics Ireland received €1.3 million in funding last year, while the Horse and Greyhound Fund was given €95 million. This was not the first government to prioritise expenditure on four-legged athletes over those with two legs. After the applause fades, we are reminded that athletics in Ireland remains a minority sport, governed by devoted amateurs. Unless significant changes occur, the triumphs of the past week may remain exceptional rather than becoming the standard.