KitKat All Ireland Schools Track and Field Championships

Ian Ward wins 1500-m in 3:56:64

Ian Ward took the gold medal in a thrilling run at the Irish schools in Tullamore on Ssturday.

This was his last race as a schools athlete and what a way to finish the story. Ian now sits his Leaving Certificate examinations this week at Raphoe Royal and Prior for whom he has competed with distinction over the years. He also turned out regularly turned out for the school hockey side.

Ian's tactics varied on this occasion. Obviously mentally strong, he forced the early pace then backed off and finally got himself back at the front and when it was time to head for home and win the coveted 1500m title with ease.

It's a measure of the value of the victory to note that Colin Costello and Darcy, recent medallists at european level, were previous winners.

What now for the talented Liscooley youth? Post Leaving it's time for a well earned break and return to training mid July and begin a training regime that is planned to bring him to European cross-country 2008 and European track in 2009.

THe schools also brought joy for Pauric Mc Laughlin from Convoy and a student at St Eunan's in the steeplechase. The defining principle for Pauric was his positive approach to the race from the gun. This got him clear and in a medal position right from the off. Pauric can now get a Irish schools vest if he handles the next few weeks properly and it would be delightful as he has maintained a keenness for the sport over the years.

Breda Mc Ginty failed to engage in her 1500m unfortunately and was disappointed while Shareen Mc Crudden was not on song in the javelin. Paul Doherty was not able to maintain early momentum in the Hurdles and faded out of a medal position over last 2 flights for an eventual 4th.

Results.

Results on AAI Website.

Some pictures by Kieran Carlin.