Sharlene Mawdsley Qualifies for 400m Semi-Finals at Worlds

UPDATE: Sharlene Mawdsley has just qualified for the 400m semi-finals at the World Athletics Championships, delivering an emotional tribute to her late father during a live interview. The 26-year-old Tipperary athlete discovered her advancement moments before her post-race chat with RTE’s David Gillick on September 14, 2025.

Mawdsley finished fourth in her heat with a time of 51.04 seconds, anxiously awaiting confirmation of her qualification as one of the fastest runners. The thrilling moment unfolded live on air, showcasing her raw excitement as she exclaimed, “I am absolutely buzzing!”

The athlete dedicated her performance to her parents, particularly her father, who passed away in June. “Dad, if you can do anything just let it be that I get in,” she emotionally shared. “He made me work for it, but thankfully, we got there in the end.”

As she processed her achievement, Mawdsley initially covered her face in disbelief before jumping for joy upon receiving the news. “That was worth it,” she declared, emphasizing the significance of her accomplishment.

Reflecting on her race strategy, Mawdsley quipped, “Go flat out for 200 and see what happens!” She expressed relief knowing her mother would be anxiously watching, stating, “I am so glad I was able to do it for her and for everyone at home.”

The coverage of the World Athletics Championships continues on RTE, where fans can follow Mawdsley’s journey as she gears up for the semi-final. The excitement surrounding her performance has resonated deeply with supporters, amplifying the emotional weight of her triumph.

Stay tuned for updates as Mawdsley prepares for her next race, which could further elevate her profile on the world stage. The energy from this moment is palpable, making it clear that she is a competitor to watch.