Rhasidat Adeleke made history at Morton Stadium, setting a championship record and qualifying for the European Championships with a stunning 22.80-second run.
In a thrilling display of speed and determination, Rhasidat Adeleke of Tallaght AC secured her place at the upcoming European Championships with a record-breaking performance at the 123.ie National Senior Track and Field Championships held at Morton Stadium on July 25, 2026.
The 23-year-old Dubliner clocked an impressive 22.80 seconds in the 200m final not only winning the national title but also surpassing the A standard qualification time of 22.85 seconds for the European Championships in Birmingham next month.
Rhasidat Adeleke’s Triumphant Return
Adeleke’s victory marks a significant comeback after a challenging year plagued by injuries. Her championship record time was a testament to her resilience and dedication. “I’m good, I’m blessed, I’m healthy and I’m just delighted to be here in front of this amazing home crowd,” Adeleke shared with Athletics Ireland post-race.
The sprinter emphasized the importance of enjoying the moment and not letting pressure overwhelm her. “I just wanted to have fun and win. I’m just bringing it back to the basics. When you do that, good things happen. And in front of a crowd like this, special things happen,” she added.
Notable Performances and Injuries
In the women’s 200m final, Amy Foster of Fast Twitch secured second place with a time of 23.49 seconds while Lorena Harrison from Ratoath AC claimed third in 24.61 seconds. Unfortunately, defending champion Sharlene Mawdsley of Newport AC pulled up injured during the race.
The men’s 200m saw Benjamin Richardson of Waterford AC claim his maiden senior national outdoor title in 20.64 seconds. Sean Aigboboh finished strongly for silver in 20.75 seconds with Mark Smyth and Ryan Mulholland sharing the bronze after dead-heating for third in 21.16 seconds.
Outstanding Field Events
The field events also showcased exceptional performances. Eric Favors successfully defended his men’s shot put title with a best throw of 19.47m while Michaela Walsh captured her seventh outdoor national shot put title with a winning throw of 13.11m.
Conor Cusack retained the men’s javelin title with a best effort of 69.09m and Kate Joyce celebrated her first senior outdoor national javelin title with a winning throw of 50.21m.
The women’s high jump was a highlight, with Daena Kealy producing a lifetime best of 1.87m to secure the national title. David Cussen added a sixth outdoor national high jump title to his collection after clearing 2.15m in the men’s competition.
Daphni Doulaptsi Teeuwen successfully defended her women’s triple jump title with a winning leap of 13.06m while Joseph Gillespie won the men’s in 14.19m.
As the championships continue, attention turns to Sunday’s track finals, with a host of qualifying heats setting the stage for more thrilling performances.
