Mark English claimed victory in the 800m final at the European Athletics Championships, breaking a 48-year-old record. The Irish athlete, representing Donegal, ran a time of 1:45.26 to secure gold. His performance came just minutes after Rhasidat Adeleke won silver in the 200m, setting a national record.
English’s win marks Ireland’s first male European 800m champion in history. The achievement follows a dramatic night at Alexander Stadium, where a solar eclipse added to the spectacle. His time of 1:45.26 surpassed the previous European record, previously held for decades.
Adeleke, 23, also made history by securing silver in the 200m, clocking 22.28 seconds. The pair became Ireland’s first athletes to win medals at the same championships. Their success highlights a strong showing for Irish runners on the European stage.
The event in Birmingham was a memorable one for Irish athletics, with English’s record-breaking run standing out as a defining moment. His victory cements his place among the sport’s elite.
