Veteran athletes prove they're still masters of their craft

The Munster Indoor Masters Championships drew a wealth of experience to the Nenagh track last weekend. Stephen Barry was there to watch veteran track and field stars who remain forever young.

The vibrancy of the Irish masters scene was on full display at the Munster Indoor Championships, with the Nenagh stadium filled by the hubbub of racing and general chatter as rivals and friends met-up for the new year’s first big event.

Of the 213 athletes and 436 race entries across junior, senior and masters categories on Sunday, 70% were lining out in masters events. Starting at over-35s, the categories went all the way up to 84-year-old Míchéal O’Beirne in the over-80s shot putt and 28-pound weight for distance throwing events.