Louth athlete Dearbhla Allen represents Ireland U20s

Although the season has only begun, Louth athlete, Dearbhla Allen has already claimed yet another Irish Singlet. Dearbhla earned this due to her performances in last year's Cross Country season.

Although Dearbhla had taken a break after a long season last year and was really at the foundation levels for training this year when the call came to represent her country there was no hesitation in accepting the offer.

The venue was Temple Newsam Park in Leeds and Dearbhla took her place on the Irish U20 team of just four athletes competing in the Celtic Games, remarkably alongside fellow Louth Athlete Ace AC’s Eimear Cooney.

The course was probably the toughest that Dearbhla has ever run in and a longer distance of 6000M also to be negotiated.

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But this young lady is made of tough stuff and when you are representing your country you just find the energy from somewhere. Dearbhla came in as the 20th individual. Which was brilliant at this time of year.

There was an anxious wait for the results as the four girls had packed well in the closing stages and knew that they could be close to taking home medals.

(St. Peter's athlete Dearbhla Allen No. 185 with her Ireland U20 team)

When the team results were announced their worries were replaced with elation as they had finished in third place in the team competition and proudly wore their medals around their necks.

Possibly the hardest-won medals they have experienced in their careers to date. All four girls are eligible for this age group next year.