Sarah Healy frustrated despite ‘decent’ fifth in European 1,500m final

Sarah Healy narrowly missed a medal in the European 1,500m final, finishing fifth in the last individual event of a highly successful championships for Irish athletics. Despite a strong late surge, Healy couldn't quite reach the podium in a tactical race won by Britain's Georgia Hunter Bell.

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Fifth is decent. Obviously, I would have much rather liked a medal in one, or the other. My plan was just be in a good position, and then it was like 300m to go, I just missed a moment where the race was gone. Like all those girls, they’re really impressive.

Healy, who also competed in the 5,000m earlier in the week, expressed a mix of frustration and pride. "Fifth is decent," she stated, "Obviously, I would have much rather liked a medal in one, or the other." She acknowledged missing a key moment in the race but felt she had gained valuable insights. "I've found out some things, learned a few things, and proud of myself. I'm not used to doubling up, and being out here all week."

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Definitely a little frustrated, but I said this year I wanted some answers. I’ve found out some things, learned a few things, and proud of myself. I’m not used to doubling up, and being out here all week.

Despite the near miss, Healy remains committed to the 1,500m, believing she has unfinished business and the potential to compete at the highest level. "I know I can be up with those girls. I know I can run so much quicker," she asserted, hinting at future ambitions.

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But I do still love the 1,500m, and I’ve still got so much unfinished business. Although the 5k is tempting, and maybe it’s where I will eventually end up. But I’ve dedicated so much time to this event, I’m not finished with it yet. And I want to run for as long as I can, and I just know there’s so much more there in the 1,500. I know I can be up with those girls. I know I can run so much quicker.

Her teammate Sophie O'Sullivan finished eighth in the same race. While disappointed with her own performance, O'Sullivan acknowledged the tactical nature of the event. The championships, however, marked a historic success for Ireland, with a total medal tally of four – two gold, one silver, and one bronze – surpassing their previous best haul from Rome two years prior. This achievement solidifies a memorable week for Irish athletics.

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I just think like I felt I should have done better. I’m not really sure where I kind of went wrong. I feel like I tried as hard as I could, but I thought I had a better preparation than I ever had going in.