Helena Crossan of Donegal set a new Irish women’s running record of 7:52:45 to clinch 10th place at the World 100km Championships (62.1 miles) in the Netherlands at the weekend. In an astonishing debut at the distance, the former cross-country international also took the bronze medal in the veteran category. The race, held in ideal conditions in Winschoten, was won by Japan’s Normi Sahurai. A breakthrough performance was also achieved by the Irish men’s team, the strongest ever sent by UltraRunning Ireland to a major championships. Ireland’s Martin Rea set a new PB of 7:21:42 to finish 29th in the elite field while Thomas Maguire (7:31:05) and Michael Collins (7:37:57) additionally finished among the top 40. Their performance ensured that Ireland finished in 8th position in the world and among the top five nations in Europe. Collins’ time also established a new Irish veteran record. The 100km World Championships is an IAAF recognised event and the distance will be introduced to the Commonwealth Championships in 2009. It is anticipated the introduction might be a first step towards eventual inclusion in the Olympic Games, along with 24-hour ultra running. Helena Crossan with bronze medal Contact: Richard Donovan rd@npmarathon.com 087-6882614