THE stars turned up and performed and the others all exceeded what was expected of them as Ireland not only retained First League status but reinforced their position in the table at the European Team Championships in Budapest over the weekend.

Derry sprinter Jason Smyth claimed the scalp of reigning European champion Francis Obikwelu with a stunning display at today's European Team Championships 1st League competition in Budapest.

Niamh O’Boyle of the Curragh/Naas club heads the Irish orienteers' presence at this weekend’s European Junior Cup, which has attracted 143 runners from 11 countries to Epping Forest near London.

FREDA DAVOREN (UCC AC) is still waiting for the race that will tell her exactly where she stands as regards 1,500m running.