Gold and silver medals for Ardee athletes.
Ardee & District A.C. had six athletes representing Louth at the National community games finals last weekend. After qualifying from the Ardee/Reaghstown area, these young athletes then won their individual events at County level to then qualify and wear the red and white Louth colours in Athlone for the National finals.
Jonathan Commins got proceedings off to a flying start on Saturday morning. In the heats of the u14 80m hurdles Jonathan came in first place to secure a place in Sunday mornings semi final. An early start on the track left no time for nerves, Jonathan had a super run and again finished in first place gaining entry to the final and placed among the favourites to win.
After one false start the boys were off. Jonathan once again proved to be more than capable over the hurdles as he powered down the lane into first place to take home the gold medal and earn himself the top spot on the podium.
Jonathon Commins – Gold Medal Winner
Also taking a place on the podium was Conor McMahon in the boys u16 high jump. Conor showed himself to be among the top high jumpers in the country as he took claim on the silver medal for second place. Conor was beaten for gold by Ryan Carthy Walsh who during the previous week took home a silver medal from the European Youth Olympics when he represented Ireland.
Conor McMahon – Silver Medal Winner
Also out on Saturday were sisters Orlaith Carolan in the u10 60m hurdles and Aoibheann Carolan in the u12 ball throw. Both girls aquitted themselves well as the competed among the huge competition.
Orlaith & Aoibheann Carolan
Abbie Sheridan ran on Saturday in the u14 800m. Abbie ran a great race and earned herself a place in Sundays final. In the final Abbie ran a steady race and finished just beyond a medal position.
Abbie Sheridan & Conor McMahon
Tara McGuinness took on the mammoth task of the u16 7k marathon. With the wind and rain facing the young ladies for almost all of the 7k, this was one of the days toughest races. However Tara rose above the challenge and while not winning a medal Tara was pleased with how the race went for her.
Tara McGuinness – Louth u16 7k Marathon Team
Ardee & District A.C. congratulate all the athletes who represented themselves, the club and county with great pride and achievement in such a high standard of the sport. Taking home a medal from the community games festival is never easy.
Jonathon Commins & Conor McMahon – 2015 Community Games Medal Winners