Overview
- Mark English claimed European 800m gold in Birmingham and Rhasidat Adeleke took 200m silver with a new Irish record of 22.28 seconds while Britain’s Amy Hunt won the race.
- Adeleke’s silver and national record followed a season disrupted by injuries and a last‑chance qualification at the national championships that secured her place in Birmingham.
- Sport Ireland and Adeleke’s support team, including strength and conditioning coach Martina McCarthy and physiotherapist Ciara McCallion, were credited for rebuilding her confidence and fitness ahead of the final.
- English’s title capped a sustained run of form that included altitude training and a change of coach to Justin Rinaldi, with a championship‑record semi and a tactical final performance underlining his longevity.
- Families and club coaches celebrated at Alexander Stadium, and officials said the double success points to the long‑term payoff from Ireland’s high‑performance investment and club networks.