The Ireland 4x400m mixed relay have claimed a sensational gold medal at the European Championships in Rome!
The team of Chris O’Donnell, Rhasidat Adeleke, Thomas Barr and Sharlene Mawdsley scorched to victory ahead in a championship record.
It is Ireland’s first gold medal at the European Championship since Sonia O’Sullivan in 1998. In fact it is Ireland’s fourth European gold medal. The three other medals were all won by O’Sullivan in the 90’s.
Sharlene Mawdsley brought the team home in 3:09.92 ahead of Italy in second place in 3:10.69 and Netherlands third in 3:10.73.
North Sligo man Chris O’Donnell clocked 46.09 seconds for fourth place when handing over to Adeleke. Adeleke brought the Ireland team to first place posting a 49.53 seconds and effectively making it three teams chasing gold.
Thomas Barr posted 44.90 seconds one of his fastest ever splits over this distance handing over to Mawdsley with Ireland in second place.
Tipperary woman Mawdsley ran an excellent tactical race to move into the lead heading into the home straight and lead Ireland to gold posting 49.40 seconds.
An amazing opening night for Ireland at the European Championships in Rome.
