Tadgh Donnelly, Claragh Keane
With most collegiate teams making their final preparations for their conference championships next week, it was a relatively quiet weekend for Irish athletes on the American collegiate track and field scene. However, a select group made their presence felt in indoor competition, delivering standout performances. Let’s break down the highlights.
Tadgh Donnelly: Distance Dominance in the MAAC
If there was an MVP among the Irish contingent this weekend, it had to be Tadgh Donnelly. The Iona junior was nothing short of spectacular at the MAAC Indoor Track & Field Championships, pulling off a distance double that would make any endurance specialist proud.
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3000m: 8:02.40 (1st) – Personal Best
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5000m: 14:14.48 (1st)
Not only did Donnelly take the win in both events, but his 3000m time was a personal best, underlining his continued progression.
Ryan Nartey: Making Strides in the Triple Jump
Jumping into the spotlight (literally) was Ryan Nartey of NJIT, who competed in the America East Indoor Championship. The junior triple jumper hit a personal best of 14.47m, securing a 5th-place finish. In a technical event where consistency and gradual improvement are key, this PB marks a significant step forward for Nartey. With continued refinement, he’s a name to watch in the horizontal jumps.
Claragh Keane: Distance Strength for Iona
Iona’s middle-distance ranks continue to impress, and sophomore Claragh Keane played a crucial role at the MAAC Indoor Championships. She took 3rd place in the 3000m (9:48.26) and followed it up with a strong 5th-place finish in the 5000m (17:07.82). A solid championship outing for Keane, demonstrating her ability to compete with the best in the MAAC over both distances.
Maeve O’Neill: Holding it Down for Providence in the DMR
Rounding out the Irish performances was Providence’s Maeve O’Neill, who competed in the Boston University DMR Challenge. Running the 800m third leg, she contributed to a team time of 10:51.88. That performance ranks Providence 12th on the NCAA national list. With only 12 slots available at the NCAA Championship, Providence will likely need to improve at the Big East Championship this weekend if they wish to book their ticket to Virginia Beach.
