14 year old Siobhra O’Flaherty from St. Leo’s, Carlow won silver for Team Ireland in the 3,000 metres at the European Youth Olympics in Utrecht, Holland, today. (July 16).
Competing against the cream of Europe’s under 16 athletes, the hugely talented Irish champion was pipped by Romania’s Maria Ifteni in a close finish which saw Siobhra run a massive PB of 9.42.42. It was neck and neck after 600 metres when both young athletes broke away from the pack and then headed for a 400 metre sprint finish.
Siobhra has been the runaway success in Irish junior athletics this year, winning cross country and track honours all around her. She is widely reckoned to be the next Fionnuala Britton in Irish sport, possibly another Sonia O’Sullivan.
Further information: Bernie Alcorn, Team Ireland Athletics Manager 00 353 87 127 5936
