Ireland’s Mixed Relay Team Sets National Record and Qualifies for Paris Olympics
Ireland’s Mixed Relay Team Sets National Record and Qualifies for Paris Olympics
Ireland has made history by qualifying for the Mixed 4x400m and Women’s 4x400m relays at the upcoming Olympic Games in Paris. The impressive feat was achieved at the World Athletics Relays in the Bahamas, where Sharlene Mawdsley anchored both squads to National records.
Rhasidat Adeleke’s outstanding performance, running two sub-50 second legs in both races, put Ireland ahead at the halfway stage. What made their achievements even more remarkable was that they came less than two hours apart.
The mixed squad, consisting of Cillin Greene, Adeleke, Thomas Barr, and Mawdsley, secured victory in their heat, setting a new Irish record of 3:12.50. They outperformed Belgium and Great Britain to claim the second Olympics qualification spot.
In the women’s 4x400m relay, Adeleke and Mawdsley, alongside Sophie Becker and Phil Healy, set another Irish record of 3:24.38, securing their place in the Paris Olympics. Mawdsley’s impressive anchor leg held off a strong challenge from Great Britain, solidifying their spot as the fastest qualifiers for the final.
The Irish Mixed relay team also impressed, finishing as the third fastest qualifiers for the final. Despite facing tough competition, the team showcased their strength and determination, setting the stage for a promising season ahead.
With their eyes set on the Paris Olympics, both squads can now look forward to competing for medals in the upcoming final. The remarkable performances of these athletes have not only made their country proud but have also set high expectations for their future success on the international stage.