Heffernan on way home after tragic loss

IRISH race walker Robert Heffernan (Togher A.C) was yesterday on a flight home from the World Championships in Dageu following the sudden death of his mother, Maureen, at her Cork home.

Heffernan, who had high hopes of a top placing in the championships which begin at the weekend, learned of the tragic news from Athletics Ireland team management in the early hours of the morning and, along with his wife, Marian, made immediate plans to return to Ireland.

Last summer Heffernan performed heroically to finish fourth in both the 20km and 50km races at the European Championships in Barcelona.

He also finished sixth in the 2007 World Championships in Osaka, Japan.

Heffernan was coming back to top form following a short spell of injury and was looking forward to competing in both the 20km and 50km events in Dageu.

Heffernan’s wife, Marian, was also due to compete as a member of the Ireland women’s 4x400m relay team.

Her place will be filled by Jessi Barr from Ferrybank Athletic club who is already in Dageu.

Athletics Ireland issued a statement yesterday expressing their condolences on the Heffernans’ sad loss.

“Robert and Marian Heffernan (Men’s 50km and Women’s 4x400m Relay) have withdrawn from competition and are returning home following the sudden and tragic death of Robert’s mother. All of the team members and Athletics Ireland give their heart-filled condolences to both families of Robert and Marian for their loss.”

The World Championships begin in Daegu, South Korea on Saturday.