What a wonderful week for Ber as she had her first taste of the international competition at top tier – The World Master Athletic Championships. A dream for many to represent their Country and compete against athletes on a Global scale, the Master Athletic Association facilitates thi by giving opportunity, foster sport longevity and creating happy memories for all involved. From linking in Ber and other Tipp Athletics throughout the week, I got a great sense of occasion, support and how proud the athlete’s were of their achievements and that they should be, especially Ber whose ambition and courage played out on the live stream as she competed in the W40 200m heats on Thursday morning. Ber’s determination and hard work ethic over the last number of months were all geared towards these championships and she applied herself so well in heat 5. The standard of competition in this age group was fierce! Drawn in lane 4 she ran a very solid 200m, although not her quickest of the season she delivered a 30.04 to finish 4th in her heat. With the top 2 in each heat and two fastest losers going through to the Semi Final on Friday, Ber was outside qualification but gained huge experience and should be proud of her performance. Just as the dust settled, we got word on Saturday morning that Ber was selected to compete as part of the Irish 4x200m W40 team on Saturday afternoon. She was so hopeful of relay selection on the lead up to the championship, so it was wonderful for her to get the opportunity. There was great excitement as we all tuned in hoping for a big run and maybe a possibility of a medal. Ber joined up with her athletic colleagues of Snezana Bechtina (Clonliffe), Kathryn McDevitt (Letterkenny) and Sinead O’ Regan (Riverstick/Kinsale) in heat 1 of 2 of the relay. The medals were decided by fastest times so the girls had it all to do as they were at a disadvantage by being in the first heat and setting the standard. The girls ran brilliantly and as Ber received the baton (3rd leg) she tucked in behind the Spaniard who was leading, kept in contention, applied the pressure and made a terrific hand over to Sinead, to take it home!! Sinead blistered down the backstraight blitzing the Spaniard and Ireland crossed the line first in 1.50.65. The tension was mounting as we all awaited the outcome of heat 2! With the USA, GB and Germany in heat 2, it appeared to be the quickest on paper. We all watched the clock and the handovers as the US and GB battled it out. It was very tight between the team and as they crossed the line in 1.48.40 and 1.49.94, we knew Ireland and Ber had secured the Bronze!!! To everyone’s delight we watched as Ber was presented with her World Bronze medallion and certificate alongside her Countrywomen. A truly momentous occasion and certainly a career highlight! This result was richly deserved for her and we are honoured as a club to have her represent us so well at this stage. Congratulations Bernadette on this success and enjoy the celebrations!!!
