Team Ireland is making history this week as the largest ever Irish Masters Athletics squad travels to Madeira, Portugal for the European Masters Athletics Championships, taking place from 9th to 19th October 2025.

A record-breaking 134 Irish Masters athletes will compete among 4,185 athletes from 54 countries, showcasing the strength and depth of Irish athletics across all age groups.

Athletes range in age from 35 to 87 years old, with many carrying strong medal hopes. Among the standout competitors are World Record holders:

• 🥇 Anne Gilshinan (W60, Slaney Olympic AC) – 800m & 1500m

• 🥇 Edel Maguire (W65, Clonliffe Harriers) – 100m, 200m, 400m & High Jump

• 🥇 John MacDermott (Sligo A) – Decathlon, 200m, 400m, 800m, 80m Hurdles, 200m Hurdles

Other top medal contenders include:

• Michael Kiely (M80, Mallow AC) – 400m, 800m, 1500m

• Rachel Akers (W40, Ennis Track) – Weight Throw, Discus, Hammer

• John Dwyer (M40, Templemore AC) – Weight Throw, Hammer

• Geraldine Finegan (North East Runners) – Multi-events including Heptathlon

• Joe Gough (M70, West Waterford AC) – 400m, 800m, 1500m, Half Marathon

• Carlton Haddock (M50, Leevale AC) – 400m

• Annette Kealy (W55, Raheny Shamrocks) – 5000m, 10k, Cross-country, Half-marathon

• Christine Kennedy (W70, Galway City Harriers) – Cross-country, Half-marathon

• Annette Quaid (W45, Leevale AC) – 400m

• Shane Sheridan (M65, DSD AC) – 100m, 200m

Also representing Ireland are the inspirational mother-daughter duo:

• Eileen Kenny (W75, Tullamore AC) – 5000m, 10k, Cross-country

• Michelle Kenny (W45, Leevale AC) – 10k, Cross-country

And not to be missed, the legendary Ann Woodlock (W85, Donore Harriers), competing in the 800m and 1500m – a true icon of Irish Masters athletics.

Best of luck to all athletes!

📍 Event Info & Schedule: emacs-madeira2025.com

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