St Abban’s athlete, Jack Fenlon finished just outside the qualifying places in the first heat of the Men’s 3000m at the European Junior Championships, held in Jersualem.
After competing there last year in the U-18 Championships, Jack was very familiar with the surroundings and everything that goes with competing at this high level.
Taking place at 7am Irish time on Monday morning, the race was ran in typical championship style with a slow early pace followed by a burn up late on to decide the final placings.
Jack finished in 10th place with a time of 8:40, a mere two placings outside the qualifying positions.
Unfortunately this wasn’t enough to progress, but Jack can be very proud of his achievements already this year, with new pbs, signing for Villanova College in America, along with his first National Title.
A huge well done to Jack, his coach Ned Kelly and his parents John and Sue who continually support Jack’s progression in athletics.
Back at home, the annual St Abban’s Activity Camp took place from Tuesday August 1 until Friday 4.
There was great excitement throughout the week with many new friendships created. Not even the wet conditions that lingered around for the week could dampen the spirits of the 141 energetic participants that took part.
“A huge thank you to all of our teenage volunteers who gave up their week to help out at the camp. They brought great enthusiasm and ensured that each of the children attending the camp had a great week,” organisers said.
“A huge thank you to Pauline, Noeleen, Mary, Cathy and James who ensured the camp was a huge success for all involved.
“Finally a huge thank you to our sponsors, Condron Car Sales and Scats Bouncing Castles who have been great supporters of the camp for years now.”
Activities included dodgeball, football, basketball, art, a full day of athletics along with dancing and orienteering to round out the week.
There was a visit from the ice-cream man on Friday which was welcomed by some fine weather.
The club’s international athletes also came to visit the camp. Jack Fenlon arrived early in the week before he flew out to Jerusalem to take part in the European Junior Championships.
Later in the week, recent National Champion Saragh Buggy and her training partner and multiple National Champion Ruby Millet shared some words of advice and some autographs with the children.
All 3 of these international athletes have all attended the camp in their early years at the club and this was the message for all the children that they could become the next Jack, Ruby or Saragh.
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