Ireland’s Kellie Harrington Strikes Gold at European Games in Poland
Kellie Harrington from Ireland emerged victorious over Natalia Shadrina of Serbia, winning the lightweight gold medal at the European Games in Poland. This victory caps off a remarkable week for Harrington who also secured her qualification for the Olympics.
Despite an initial stumble in the first round, Harrington recovered with determination, and the final result, a unanimous decision in her favor, was undeniable. The same day witnessed a contrasting outcome for heavyweight Jack Marley, who was defeated in his final match against Italy’s Aziz Abbes Mouhidine.
Reflecting on her winning strategy, Harrington expressed, “I began with a sparring approach, trying to understand her tactics. Realizing I had to step up, I did, and I could sense the advantage through the cheers of the Irish fans. It was not about overpowering but playing smart, tactical boxing.”
With her successful qualification for the upcoming Paris Games, Harrington, who was considering retirement had she not qualified, is now looking forward to defending her lightweight title.
In a slight setback, Marley was unable to overcome the experienced reigning European champion and world silver medallist, Mouhidine, but qualified for the Olympics nonetheless, promising to train harder than ever.
In Canoe slalom, Alistair McCreery advanced to the quarter-final of the Men’s Kayak Cross, finishing ninth out of 52 starters. On the final day of the European Games, the Men’s Canoe semi-final will see Jake Cochrane and Liam Jegou, while Michaela Corcoran will participate in the Women’s equivalent.
In the field of Kickboxing, Ireland will be taking home five medals, with three finals remaining on the last day of the competition. A noteworthy victory was seen by Nathan Tait in the Men’s Point Fighting 74kg category, and Amy Wall’s win in the Full Contact 60kg semi-final. However, Jodie Brown and Nicole Bannon had to settle for bronze medals in their respective categories.
In the Triathlon Mixed Relay, Team Ireland, comprising James Edgar, Erin McConnell, Luke McCarron, and Carolyn Hayes, finished 14th despite torrential rains. They aim to learn from this experience as they gather ranking points for the Paris 2024 Olympic qualification.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about European Games
Who won the lightweight gold medal at the European Games in Poland?
Ireland’s Kellie Harrington won the lightweight gold medal at the European Games in Poland.
Who was Kellie Harrington’s opponent in the final?
Kellie Harrington’s opponent in the final was Natalia Shadrina from Serbia.
What sport did Jack Marley compete in and who was his opponent?
Jack Marley competed in the heavyweight category in boxing. His opponent was Italy’s Aziz Abbes Mouhidine.
How did the Irish team perform in the Canoe Slalom event?
In the Canoe Slalom event, Alistair McCreery advanced to the quarter-final of the Men’s Kayak Cross. Jake Cochrane and Liam Jegou are set to compete in the Men’s Canoe semi-final, and Michaela Corcoran in the Women’s equivalent.
How did the Irish team perform in Kickboxing at the European Games?
The Irish kickboxing team secured five medals, with victories from Nathan Tait and Amy Wall in their respective categories. However, Jodie Brown and Nicole Bannon had to settle for bronze medals.
How did Team Ireland perform in the Triathlon Mixed Relay?
Team Ireland, comprising of James Edgar, Erin McConnell, Luke McCarron, and Carolyn Hayes, finished 14th in the Triathlon Mixed Relay.
More about European Games
- European Games Official Site
- Kellie Harrington’s Professional Record
- Results and News from the Canoe Slalom
- Ireland’s Kickboxing Achievements
- Triathlon Mixed Relay Information
6 comments
Harrington’s win is a huge deal! Didn’t expect her to bounce back so strong after the first round. Total respect!
Amazing work by our kickboxing team! Five medals, that’s brill. Gutted for Brown and Bannon, but they’ll come back stronger next time.
Big ups to McCreery too. 9th out of 52 ain’t bad at all. canoe slalom’s tough man, respect.
The triathlon relay sounded intense, torrential rain and all. 14th place, not too shabby. Well done team Ireland!
Wow! well done Kellie, bringing home the gold. Ireland’s super proud of you girl! keep shining!
ah lads, Marley did his best, reckon experience got the better of him, but he’s going to the Olympics so that’s cool, right?