IN PICTURES: Laois athletes represent Team Ireland at European Cross Country Championships

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St Abban’s athlete and Kileshin native, Cheryl Nolan alongside Portlaoise's Mary Mulhare travelled to Antalya, Turkey as part of a 36-strong Irish team last weekend to take part in the European Cross Country Championships. This was Cheryl’s first full senior International, earned off the back of her 6th place finish at the National Cross-Country Championships in Fermanagh some weeks ago. Cheryl was joined on the team by Niamh Allen (Leevale), Danielle Donnegan (Tullamore Harriers), Anne Marie McGlynn (Letterkenny) and Fiona Everard (Bandon). Read full report below picture

The Senior Women’s race was the penultimate event of the day with the athletes competing over 7.8km. Pre-race favourite and Olympic medallist Nadia Batocletti of Italy set her stall out early, pushing a very fast pace. The Irish girls packed closely together all working hard to keep the team in contention. At the front end, Niamh Allen was having a fantastic race leading the Irish team home. Cheryl was dealing with the testing conditions well and seemed to be leading the rest of the team through the technical part of the course with small inclines and obstacles to overcome.

As the ladies entered the final lap, Cheryl was 2nd Irish lady battling with plenty of other nations for places. She duly crossed the line in 57th place, 2nd Irish lady which helped the team to 10th place overall. The team was led home by Niamh Allen in an outstanding 11th place with Anne Marie McGlynn completing the team in 62nd. Mary Mulhare was just behind in 66th place with Fiona and Danielle further back in 73rd and 74th position respectively.

Outside of the Senior Ladies race, there was great success in the Men’s U23 race where Nick Griggs’ sprint finish earned him an individual silver medal behind Will Bairnicoat of Britain. This was the only medal won by the Irish team at these championships, but with plenty of experience gained we hope this will lead to more success in the future.

St Abban’s A.C would like to send their heartiest congratulations to Cheryl on her fantastic performance. Everyone at the club understands the sacrifice and dedication involved in competing in the pinnacle of cross-country running in Europe.

They commend Cheryl and her support team for everything she has achieved this year. Both herself and Mary are outstanding role models for athletes throughout the county and they look forward to seeing them both racing next weekend in the Laois Senior Cross Country Championships.