Some of the local athletes who won medals in Italy including Dualta Callan, Katie Gaynor, Eleanor Murray and Fintan Bray.

Local athletes sparkle in Italian sunshine

Published: Sat 9 Sep 2023, 2:04 PM

Six local athletes showcased their talent when they won medals at the SUDS European Championships in Padova, Italy in recent days.

There was a notable success for Hill of Down man Liam Foley as he took gold following his win in the 1,500 metres.

In another fine individual performance Fergus Cosgrove from Walterstown claimed bronze in a hotly-contested triathlon event ran off in the searing heat.

In other events too there was some wonderful achievements. Dualta Callan and Eleanor Murray from Trim as well as Katie Gaynor from Dunboyne and Fintan Bray from Delvin all took gold in the Artistic Swimming team event.

The athletes will be returning home this weekend with their medals following the SUDS European Championships and they are sure to receive a very warm welcome indeed from their local communities.

The 15-strong Team Ireland has been competing against 22 other countries from all over the continent at the championships.

The closing ceremony for the games in Padua takes place on Sunday.