Tailteann Games victory secures SIAB selection for Ally

Moate Community School student and Tullamore Harriers athlete Ally Duffy produced an outstanding performance at the Tailteann Games in Carlow on Saturday last, claiming victory in the girls' 1500m steeplechase while representing Leinster.

Competing in ideal conditions, with sunshine and little wind, Duffy showed excellent race judgement throughout the event.

After remaining patient in the early stages, the Castledaly teenager made her move when it mattered most, unleashing a powerful finishing sprint to pull clear of the field and secure a convincing victory.

Her winning time of 4:59.77 was a new personal best and underlined the impressive progress she has made this season.

The performance also confirmed Duffy's selection for the prestigious Schools International Athletic Board (SIAB) Championships, which will take place in Belfast on Saturday, July 18.

The annual event brings together the best schools athletes from Ireland, England, Scotland and Wales, and represents a significant achievement for the talented Westmeath athlete.

Duffy's success at the Tailteann Games is the latest highlight in what has been a remarkable season and she will now look forward to testing herself against the finest young athletes from across Britain and Ireland at the SIAB Championships next month.