New national records for Dundalk's Geraldine Finegan in Berlin

Dundalk’s record-breaking masters athlete Geraldine Finegan has done it again — setting new Irish national records in both the pentathlon and the long jump at a high-class international meeting in Berlin this weekend.

Competing in a field ranging in age from 13 to 70, Finegan produced a remarkable performance to win the pentathlon with 4,204 points, surpassing the previous Irish record of 4,161.

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The achievement was particularly satisfying as she had travelled to Germany specifically to break the national mark. The closest rival from Germany was 3419 points, almost 800 points behind, so it was a clear win for the Newry athlete.

“It wasn’t as easy as I thought it would be,” she admitted afterwards. “The standard was incredibly high, and there were some very big, strong German athletes competing.”

The highlight of the day came in a thrilling 800 metres finale. With the early pace proving too slow for her liking, Finegan boldly took the lead at the 400m mark, injecting urgency into the race and setting up a dramatic finish.

In a heart-stopping sprint to the line, she was narrowly edged out by a talented 19-year-old competitor.

“It was so exciting,” she said. “To be racing athletes 40 years younger and still pushing the pace is what sport is all about.”

Adding to the occasion was the presence of her friend Heike Hess, who finished in third place. The trip to Berlin was also timed to celebrate Hess’s birthday — making the weekend about more than medals and records.

“When you reach 60, it’s these moments and memories that stay with you,” Finegan reflected. “Of course, the records are special, but sharing the experience with friends — that’s what really matters.”

Once again, the North East runner from Dundalk  has demonstrated that age is no barrier to excellence, continuing to inspire both at home and abroad with her dedication, courage and competitive.