Irish athlete impresses at international schools athletics competition

On Saturday, July 20, Marie Shanahan, of Coláiste Phobal in Roscrea, was among a team of 70 Irish athletes who represented their country at the Schools’ International Athletics Board track and field competition in Carmarthen, Wales.

These athletes earned their spots on the team through their performances at the All-Ireland Schools’ Track and Field Championships and the Tailteann Games in Santry.

The top two athletes in each event were chosen to compete at this prestigious international event.

Saturday’s competition was marked by wet and muggy conditions, with frequent heavy showers adding to the difficulty.

Marie, along with Rebecca Walsh from Co Waterford, represented Ireland in the 1kg discus throw, which began around 4:45pm.

England’s Gabriella Tcheukam took an early lead with a throw of 42.21 metres.

Marie’s initial throw of 32.56 metres placed her in third position.

However, by the third round, Rebecca Walsh had surged into third place with a throw of 35.21 metres, while Marie slipped to fifth.

After six rounds of intense competition, the final standings were:

Gabriella Tcheukam, England - 43.66m

Elkie Baker, England - 37.51m

Rebecca Walsh, Ireland - 35.21m

Dolly Evans, Wales - 34.94m

Abbey Kennedy, Scotland - 34.05m

Marie Shanahan, Ireland - 32.56m

Grace Hawker, Wales - 29.06m

Niamh Pegrum, Scotland - 29.03m

Marie's efforts helped Ireland secure second-place finish in the competition.

Her busy weekend didn’t end in Wales.

After a late flight home on Saturday night, she competed for her club, Ballyskenach AC, in the Club All-Ireland on Sunday morning.

Marie secured second place with a throw of 32.84 meters.