'Phenomenal performance' as Longford athlete Ashley represents Ireland with pride in Leeds


Ashley Ryan ran an outstanding race, proudly representing Longford AC and Ireland in cold, wet, and muddy conditions
Longford Athletics Club athlete Ashley Ryan proudly wore the Irish green singlet in Leeds on Sunday last.
There were fantastic performances by all the athletes competing in the British and Irish Masters Cross Country International in Leeds, with runners representing Ireland, Northern Ireland, England, Scotland, and Wales.
Ashley ran an outstanding race, proudly representing Longford AC and Ireland in cold, wet, and muddy conditions, with a brutal hill to contend with on the course.
Ashley lined up in Race 2, covering 6k in the Women’s 035–060 category alongside fellow Irish athletes Sinéad O’Connor, Edel Gaffney, Sharon Rynne, and Aileen Arthur.
Also read: Longford athlete wins three medals and sets new record at European Championships in Madeira
It was a fantastic outcome for Ashley, who maintained her pace and ran a strong final lap to finish in 7th place overall, 3rd Irish lady, and 4th in the 035 Masters Women’s race. They also took silver in the team results overall and team silver in 035.
A phenomenal performance, especially considering her biggest challenge seemed to be overcoming logistical issues to arrive in Leeds due to the Irish weather.
Longford Athletics Club couldn’t be prouder of Ashley, who has overcome injury to now compete internationally among the very best in athletics.
A great end to the year for Ashley in the Irish singlet.