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Athletes from around the world met at the 69th BAM Cork City Sports International Athletics Meet for first time in two years
5th July 2022
Over 260 athletes from around the world competed yesterday at the 69th BAM Cork City Sports International Athletes meet which took place at the MTU Stadium in Bishopstown
Ireland’s premier athletics event returned as part of the world athletics continental tour bronze status, after a two-year absence to once again host some of the world’s best athletes. South African middle-distance runner Caster Semenya, who was gold medalist at the Rio and London Olympics and the reigning world champion at 800m, took part in the women’s 3000m ahead of the Commonwealth Games. Also, at the event was up and coming American hurdler Lolo Jones, who competed in the 100m women’s hurdles race.
A number of Irish track and field stars participated, with 2018 U18 European Champion Sarah Healy taking on Semenya in the 3000m women’s race. Limerick’s Sarah Lavin competed in the 100m women’s hurdles alongside Kate Doherty and Sarah Quinn, while Leevale Olympian and Irish 800m record-holder Louise Shanahan competed in the women’s 800m, having postponed her trip to the World Championships. Elsewhere, Darragh McEllhinny sought to break the 17-year-old meeting record in the men’s 3000m, and national shot putt record holder Eric Favors faced stiff competition in the men’s shot putt event from compatriot and National Champion John Kelly, as well as Italy’s Nick Ponzio, Luxembourg’s Bob Bertemes and British athlete Scott Lincoln.
Reflecting on the evening’s success, BAM Executive Director Alasdair Henderson said:
“On behalf of everyone at BAM Ireland, I wish to extend my congratulations to all of the athletes and thank all the organisers and volunteers who helped attract world-renowned talent to the city. That this is the 69th meeting is a testament to the hard work and commitment of all those who have dedicated their time to making it happen year after year. It’s fantastic to see the event back on track after its two-year absence.”
The BAM Ireland 200m was won by Sinesipho Dambile RSA in 20.56 with Ian Kerr BAH second and Leon Reid IRL in third place, marking his return after injury. Mark Smyth the Irish National Champion was fifth in 20.89.
BAM Ireland 3000m podium L to R, Tony O’Connell – Chairperson Cork City Sports Frank Walley – President Cork City Sports, Georgia Hansen(3rd,) Sarah Healy (1st) & Stella Rutto (2nd), From BAM Ger Moloney Regional Managing Director BAM Ireland & Pat Murphy Regional Commercial Director BAM Ireland
