Catriona Devine, Kay Byrne Win Four Medals at European Masters

BREAKING: Catriona Devine and Kay Byrne have made headlines by winning four medals at the European Masters Athletics Championships in Madeira, Portugal, marking a triumphant return for Finn Valley AC. This momentous achievement has sparked jubilation within the club, as both athletes continue to showcase their exceptional talent on the international stage.

In a week filled with excitement, the duo returned home with two golds, one silver, and one bronze, further solidifying their status as elite competitors. On Sunday, November 12, Kay Byrne capped her championships with a stunning performance, helping the Irish W45 team secure gold in the half marathon, clocking in at 1:42.01. This victory comes after Ireland outpaced teams from Germany and Portugal for the top spot.

Earlier in the week, on November 9, Byrne contributed to a silver medal for Ireland in the 10k road race, finishing as the seventh W60. Joining athletes Catherine O’Connor and Michelle Kenny, the Irish team claimed silver behind Great Britain, edging out Ukraine. In addition, Byrne clinched another silver in the 8km cross country, just behind Sweden in the W60 category.

Meanwhile, Catriona Devine shone in the W50 1500m, taking home a bronze medal with a time of 5:03.68. She finished third, trailing Sandrine Host of Belgium and Lara Gaultieri of Italy, solidifying her place among Europe’s elite.

Both athletes have long been role models in Finn Valley AC, inspiring younger generations with their relentless drive and commitment to the sport. Their latest victories not only enhance their illustrious careers but also elevate the club’s reputation on a continental level.

In other developments, Noeleen Scanlan of Finn Valley AC secured third place in the masters women’s race at the Autumn Open Cross Country, winning the F40 category. Just shy of the silver medal by nine seconds, she exhibited impressive determination against strong competition.

Additionally, Finn Valley AC athletes excelled in juvenile cross country relays, capturing multiple medals. The U11 girls team won silver, while four other teams clinched bronze, showcasing the depth of talent within the club.

On the international front, Eimear McCarroll triumphantly won the open race at the Bradley Pink Classic in the United States, marking a successful return from injury. Her victory, achieved with a margin of thirty seconds, adds to the impressive accolades of Finn Valley AC athletes abroad.

Looking ahead, mark your calendars for the upcoming Remembrance Run at Finn Valley AC on November 16. This significant event, which honors loved ones, will feature both 5k and 10k options, starting at 10 AM. Join the community as they come together to celebrate and remember.

As the excitement continues to build around Finn Valley AC, the latest performances of Catriona Devine and Kay Byrne serve as a reminder of the extraordinary talent within the club. Their victories at the European Masters Championships not only reflect personal achievements but also inspire athletes everywhere to strive for greatness.