The World and European 24 Hour Championships took place over the weekend in Katowice, Poland. Ireland were represented in both men’s and women’s races by experienced ultrarunners and some strong performances reflected this. Pride of place must go to Ruthann Sheahan’s extraordinary performance. Ruthann covered in excess of 229 kilometres over the 24 hours and finished in 5th place in the European Championships and 7th in the World Championships. This is a new Irish record for the event and a breakthrough performance for Ruthann.

Deirdre Finn, the Irish 24 hour champion from 2011, was the other Irish representative but unfortunately her challenge was hampered by stomach problems and she finished in 73rd position.

The men were led home by John O’Regan who is the Irish 24 hour champion.
John finished 25th European and 31st in the World Championship. He was supported by Eddie Gallen who completed his 5th World Championships 24 Hour. Eddie was 33rd in the Europeans and 42nd in the World Championships.

This was a very competitive championships with numbers increased from previous championships. Over 250 athletes took part representing 35 nations.