Celtic Gold for Kilkenny Girls

The Athletics Ireland Girls Under 18 team struck gold at The Celtic Games International in Antrim on Saturday. The victory over teams from Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland was achieved with an immense contribution from a number of Kilkenny girls – Cliodhna Manning, Lorraine O’Shea and Sarah Buggy – all winning gold, and Sophie Parkinson, who won silver.

Manning and O’Shea, both Kilkenny City Harriers, were involved in individual and relay events. Manning’s contribution was major. Having taken first place in the 300m (39.70) she ran in both the 4x100m relay which finished in second place and 4x300m relay which came third. O’Shea also had an excellent competition. Clearing 5.69 meters in the Long Jump she not only won the event but achieved a new personal best performance, a nice way to finish up the season. Lorraine also ran a leg of the 4x100m relay.

Sarah Buggy, from Castlecomer but a member of the St Abban’s club, won gold in the Triple Jump with an 11.71 meters performance.

Sophie Parkinson, Gowran AC, played her part finishing in the silver medal position in the Discus.

The Boys Under 18 team did not make it to the podium despite the best efforts of the two Kilkenny lads on the team.

Eoin Power, St Joseph’s AC, finished in the top three in both 100m Hurdles and 400m Hurdles. Jonathan FitzPatrick, KCH, was second in the 2000m Steeplechase.

Sean Lynch