Marie Shanahan Shines: secures silver at Tailteann Games and earns Spot in SIAB International

Coláiste Phobal Ros Cré is immensely proud of third-year student Marie Shanahan, who delivered a stellar performance at the Tailteann Games in Morton Stadium, Santry, on Saturday, June 22nd.

The Tailteann Games is an interprovincial competition featuring various track and field events. Marie was selected as one of three athletes to represent Munster in the discus throw.

Despite a delayed start that left athletes anxiously waiting, the competition began with Méabh O’Connell from St. Angela’s, Cork, throwing a commendable 31.50m. Marie was the second to throw, achieving a steady 30.92m. After five more competitors, Rebecca Walsh from St. Declan's, Kilmacthomas, led the round with an impressive 35.88m.

By the end of the first round, Marie was in fourth place. She knew she had a strong chance but needed to improve to
secure a medal position. Determined, Marie threw 31.22m in the second round, maintaining her fourth-place position.

In the third round, a throw of 34.15m advanced her to third place, behind Rebecca in first and Méabh in second with 34.63m. Marie's consistency shone in the fourth round as she threw 34.15m again, holding onto her third-place spot.

With only the top two finishers earning a place to represent Ireland in the SIAB track and field international competition, Marie knew she needed an additional 48cm to qualify.

Méabh, the first to throw in the final round, did not improve her best throw, offering a glimmer of hope for Marie. Amidst the tension, Marie's final throw was measured at 34.68m, just 5cm ahead of Méabh, securing her second place.

As the competition concluded, the remaining five competitors fell short of surpassing Marie’s impressive 34.68m. Rebecca solidified her first-place finish with a throw of 37.44m.

When the judges confirmed the results, Marie was jubilantly declared the second-place winner, to the delight of her family, friends, and teachers. Munster swept the podium, with Marie and Rebecca set to represent Ireland in the SIAB international competition.

The SIAB event rotates among the four participating nations, Ireland, England, Scotland and Wales. In July, it will be hosted in Carmarthen, Wales. Congratulations to Marie on her outstanding achievement, and best of luck in Carmarthen!