Cathal Dennehy: The path to senior success does not run in a straight line

As it was for Sarah Healy and Kate O’Connor, it might take many years, lots of luck, world-class support teams and a whole heap of heartbreak before they can enjoy a golden moment on the senior stage.

Kate O'Connor, representing Ulster University and Ireland, celebrates with her gold medal after finishing first in the women's heptathlon during day eight of the FISU World University Games 2025. Pic: Shauna Clinton/Sportsfile

The trajectory is never straight, never simple. To achieve what Kate O’Connor and Sarah Healy have this year, vast talent is a prerequisite, but there’s so much more to it.

It’s now six years since they won silver medals at European U-20 level – O’Connor in the heptathlon, Healy over 1500m.