South Roscommon connection to gold medal winner Mark English

A memorable night for Irish athletics at the European Championships in Birmingham was especially celebrated in Knockcroghery when Mark English crossed the line to win the 800m final.

The history making runner has roots in Corbooley, a townland outside the South Roscommon village, from where his grandfather Pat English hailed.

Pat achieved sporting success with St Patrick's GAA, winning two county senior football medals in 1945 and 1946, before relocating to County Donegal where he served as a member of An Garda Siochana.

English became the first Irishman to win a European Athletics Championships gold medal when crossing the race finish line in time of 1.45.26.

His success was later complemented by the silver medal won by Rhasidat Adeleke won claimed a silver medal in the 200m final, following an injury interrupted season.

Both runners previously competed at the International Grand Prix at the TUS Athlone Sporting Arena.

English claimed a first place finish in the 800m at the 2019 event, while Adeleke also competed at the Grand Prix in 2020.