NI & Ulster Athletes Shine as Ireland Seal Relay Qualification for 2027 World Championships

Rachel McCann (North Down AC) and Jenna Breen (City of Lisburn AC) were key contributors across Ireland’s mixed and women’s 4x400m relay squads. Breen delivered an outstanding performance on the second leg of the women’s 4x400m heats, clocking a superb 52.47 split, an improvement on her 53.32 effort in the mixed relay the previous day.

McCann took on lead-off duties in the women’s 4x400m, producing two consistent runs of 52.53 and 52.35. Her efforts helped set the platform for Ireland to win their section and secure a coveted place at the 2027 World Championships.

Finn Valley AC’s Arlene Crossan also made a significant impact, competing in both rounds of the women’s 4x400m. Crossan impressed with a 51.49 split on the anchor leg in the heats before returning to run 51.30 on the third leg in the subsequent round, underlining the depth and strength of the Irish squad.

Collectively, the performances of McCann, Breen, and Crossan highlight the continued contribution of NI & Ulster athletes on the international stage.