Young Tipperary athlete shines at provincial racewalking event securing All-Ireland place

Munster Athletics and Nenagh Olympic jointly hosted the Munster Indoors event on March 10, delivering a day filled with excitement, especially for one young Tipperary athlete.

The event saw participation from various athletes, including Clonmel AC's Niamh Clarke in the U16 racewalking category.

After displaying exceptional pacing, Niamh managed to seize the third position, securing her spot in the upcoming All Ireland's event in Athlone on April 6.

Not only committed to her own sporting achievements, the 15-year-old is also known for her commitment to nurturing the club's younger walking groups as she assists with juvenile training sessions each Tuesday evening.

Coached by Frank Lynch, also a strong walker in his day, he now dedicates much of his time to empowering the next generation of athletes, like young Niamh, to be the best version of themselves.

A spokesperson for Clonmel AC's stated: "Congratulations Niamh - your hard work is evident with your flawless technique on the day and the endurance of the event not knocking a feather out of you.

Her first time doing the distance of 1500m indoors - so can’t say this was a [personal best] but definitely a big physical and psychological challenge for her to accelerate for the line in the last 50m.

"Massive credit should go to the coaches, as they have the foresight to see what the athletes abilities are, and they help them to develop their skills.

"Credit must also go to Martin Hurley, coach from Carraig na bhFear AC - who allows Niamh to attend training at their club sessions regularly so she gets to meet her friends."

The Munster Winner was Faye Carroll from Cork City AC , the newly formed club being promoted by Rob and Marian Heffernan. Second place was the very determined Robyn Maher of Carraig na bhFear AC. 

Clonmel AC is the home of some of Ireland's racewalking record holders such as Evan Lynch and Aaron Egan.