A Laois athlete who won a medal at the European Cross Country Championships received a Civic Reception last week.
This is the highest honour that Laois County Council can bestow upon someone in the county.
In December of last year, Portlaoise’s Mary Mulhare was the crucial runner as Ireland claimed a stunning bronze medal at the European Cross Country Championships.
Ireland claimed a silver medal in this event in 2021 but were without the talented Ciara Mageean and Fionnuala McCormack.
Therefore, many pundits didn’t give Ireland a chance of repeating a medal winning feat.
However, the team timed their run to perfection as they improved their individual standings lap by lap.
Sisters Eilish and Roisin Flanagan led the team home side-by-side in 11th and 12th place as individuals.
The battle for bronze was down between Ireland and Spain with Portlaoise’s Mary Mulhare set to be Ireland’s final scorer.
The Portlaoise CBS teacher crossed the line in 27th position and that was enough to secure the medal.
A week later, Mary Mulhare returned to action where she won the Laois Cross Country Championships.
Mary’s friends, family and club mates were present in the chamber on Thursday night to celebrate with her.
Photographer Michael Scully was also present and you can check out his pictures below:
Mary with her parents – Margaret and DavidPhoto: Michael Scully
Mary Mulhare Reception – Mary with her Portlaoise AC friends – at the reception. Photo: Michael Scully –
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