Robert Heffernan qualifies for World Championships and Olympics

There was double joy for Robert Heffernan (Togher AC) at the 50km race walk in Dudince, Slovakia on Saturday where he finished fourth in 3:48:44 to qualify for the World Championships in Beijing this summer and a record fifth Olympic Games.

Home hero Matej Toth crossed the line first in 3:34:38, the third-fastest time in history while Heffernan’s 3:48:44 in fourth was his fastest performance outside of major championships.

With temperatures about 14C, the top eight finishers went faster than 3:50 with another four dipping below the four-hour barrier.