Last night, Irish athletes delivered a number of outstanding performances at the Gala dei Castelli meet in Bellinzona, Switzerland, marking an impressive conclusion to their seasons.
Leading the Irish charge was Sharlene Mawdsley, who stormed to a stunning victory in the 400m. The Newport sprinter clocked a time of 51.35 seconds, overtaking her competitors in the final stretch. In a thrilling finish, she narrowly edged out Austria’s Susanne Gogl-Walli, who posted a time of 51.39, and the Netherlands' Lieke Klaver, who crossed the line in 51.42. This win marked Mawdsley’s final race of the season, capping off a memorable year with a brilliant final performance.
Luke McCann also delivered an exceptional performance, achieving a new personal best in the 800m race. McCann secured a second-place finish in a time of 1.45.33, showcasing his continued improvement and strength in the event. His Irish teammate, Mark English, followed closely behind, claiming third place in the race in a time of 1.45.56.
Hurdler Sarah Lavin concluded her season with a solid performance in the 100m hurdles. Lavin finished fifth in a time of 13.06 seconds, rounding off her year. Her result reflects a strong season of competing at the highest level for the Limerick woman.
The Gala dei Castelli meet in Bellinzona proved to be a fitting end to a successful season for these Irish athletes. Sharlene Mawdsley will rightly grab the headlines with her victory, which comes off the back of claiming the hearts of the nation alongside her 4x400m relay teammates in Paris this summer.
Featured Images: by Perri Williams