Limerick Olympian to represent Ireland at European Games

LIMERICK Olympian Carolyn Hayes will represent Team Ireland as part of a full team across the Triathlon events at the European Games in Krakow this summer.

Tokyo Olympian Hayes, from Newcastle West, as well as Erin McConnell will compete in the Women’s Individual event, with in-form James Edgar and Luke McCarron competing in the Men’s Individual race. Ireland will also compete in the Mixed Relay for the first time.

The Games run from June 20 to July 2, with Triathlon taking place in the Nowa Huta Lake and its surroundings in Krakow City. 

West Limerick sporting all-rounder Carolyn threw herself into camogie, Gaelic football, basketball, swimming and soccer during primary school, she felt the need to scale it back to just swimming and hockey while attending Laurel Hill F.C.J. secondary school.

As an undergrad in Dublin, she took up water-polo and represented Ireland internationally. She also ran both the Dublin and New York marathons during this time. 

Carolyn, who graduated as a Medical Doctor in 2017, was one of the first recipients of the inaugural UL Beo Sports Scholarships and it was during her second year that Carolyn met some triathletes from Limerick Triathlon Club. 

Hayes claimed a 23rd place finish in the Women’s Individual Triathlon, in a race delayed by challenging weather conditions at the Tokyo Olympics in July 2021.

The talented athlete posted a time of 2:02:10 with the run being the most impactful aspect of her race, posting the 10th fastest time in the field for the 10km segment.

TEAM IRELAND TRIATHLON ATHLETES:

Carolyn Hayes (Newcastlewest, Limerick) Women’s Individual, Mixed Relay

James Edgar (Lisburn, Co. Antrim) Men’s Individual, Mixed Relay

Luke McCarron (Newtownards, Co. Down) Men’s Individual, Mixed Relay

Erin McConnell (Derry, Co. Derry) Women’s Individual, Mixed Relay

Team Ireland Chef de Mission for Krakow 2023, Gavin Noble said: “I am really pleased to see a full team set to compete in Krakow, and especially looking forward to watching Team Ireland compete in the Mixed Relay, in its new format. The event takes place in Krakow centre, and will no doubt be a highlight of the games."   

Director of Performance with Triathlon Ireland, Gordon Crawford said: "We're delighted that four athletes have been selected to compete at the European Games.

"This is a young team looking to develop their experience and race-craft but one with a lot of potential. The European Games provides a great development opportunity and a chance for the athletes to test themselves both individually and as a team."