Mark English wins gold, Rhasidat Adeleke wins silver on unforgettable night for Irish athletics

Ireland experienced an unforgettable night at the European Championships as Mark English and Rhasidat Adeleke secured gold and silver medals, respectively, within a remarkable half-hour span. This historic achievement marks a significant moment for Irish athletics.

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I really wanted to win gold, wanted that title badly. I knew I couldn’t finish my career without a title.

Mark English captured gold in the 800 meters, becoming the first Irish man to win a European outdoor title in any discipline. Racing with fierce determination, English executed a flawless race, unleashing a powerful finishing kick to cross the line first. "I really wanted to win gold, wanted that title badly. I knew I couldn’t finish my career without a title," English stated, expressing his immense relief and joy. He added, "It’s the best Irish support I’ve ever run in front of, and to finally stand on top of that podium, will feel amazing."

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It’s the best Irish support I’ve ever run in front of, and to finally stand on top of that podium, will feel amazing.

Shortly after English's victory, Rhasidat Adeleke delivered a stunning performance in the 200 meters, clinching a silver medal with a new national record of 22.28 seconds. Despite a challenging summer marked by injury, Adeleke demonstrated her resilience, closing strongly in the final meters to secure second place. "I’m back, and I’m better," Adeleke declared, reflecting on her journey and the significance of her achievement. "This means so much to me, just knowing the journey. Now I just want to be free, I want to be happy."

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I’m back, and I’m better.

Adeleke's silver medal adds to her growing list of accomplishments, including being the first Irish woman to reach the 200m final at the European Championships and winning silver in the 400m two years prior. The electrifying performances by both English and Adeleke, supported by a passionate Irish fanbase, have cemented this night as a landmark event in the history of Irish athletics.

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This means so much to me, just knowing the journey. Now I just want to be free, I want to be happy.