Laois Today: Juniors and Masters athletes have their day in Morton Stadium Santry

The much debated, and delayed, Track and Field National Championships continued over the weekend, with the Juniors (U20’s) and Masters Championships

Such was the demand for places that the Junior has been extended, and will complete next weekend.

As usual there was a fine contingent present from Laois, across all categories.

The McDonalds of “Irelands Fittest Family” had a most successful weekend – youngest daughter Niamh won Bronze in the Steeplechase for Ballyroan, Abbeyleix and District on Saturday.

She came third in a time of 12.57 while dad Martin went on to win Silver in the O-60 5,000m event on Sunday.

Canice Whearty of Oughaval qualified for the final of the Junior Men’s 400m, running 51.46 in the process and finishing third in his heat. He went on to finish sixth in the final.

Sarah Graham of St Abban’s was pipped for a medal in the Discus. Her throw of 32.65 was just 34 centimetres off bronze.

Eadoin Coady of St Abban’s was very competitive in the Junior Girls hammer and finished fifth overall.

David Keenan (Ballyfin) and John Territt (St Abban’s) both won Gold in their Masters events. David in the 55-59 Discus (1.5kg) and John in the 50-59 Hammer (6kg)

Tony Cox (Ballyfin) and Stephen Hunter (St Abban’s) were in fast events on the track, Tony competing in the 800, and Stephen in the 1500m.

The 5000m is still the most popular event, across all ages – with Laois represented by a range of athletes, Tom Lupton, Colin Coyne, Shane Delaney, Trevor Percy.

The ever-green Dick Mullins won Bronze in the over 70, and is looking forward to winning the over 75 next year.