Cork teen Noelle Lenihan wins silver at World Championships
The 15-year-old discus thrower from Charleville, competing in her first event of this magnitude, produced a lifetime best throw of 30.68m at her first try.
The best was yet to come — and she had an F38 world record of 31.64m with her second throw.
This mark was the best of her six attempts and secured her the silver medal behind F37 reigning Paralympic champion Na Mi of China (33.59m) while Renee-Danielle Foessel took bronze with 30.39m.
Lenihan was overjoyed at the dream day.
“I got a PB, world record, and silver medal in my first major championship. I turn 16 in a few days’ time so naturally I’m going to gain more experience and improve my explosive power which can only results in further improvement. But for today I’m delighted,” Lenihan said.
“My dad, who’s my coach, and my older siblings are all here in the crowd supporting me which is very special.”
Irish national Paralympic throws coach Dave Sweeney said: “I can’t believe how well Noelle handled the pressure of competing at this level. She was like a seasoned pro. Even after breaking the world record she remained focused on the small details that we agreed would make her throw well.
“At 15 years old she has an incredible future in this sport. Hopefully they’ll have some great celebrations in North Cork Athletics club.”
Today is set to be the busiest day for the Irish team in Doha, with four athletes in action. Throwers Orla Barry and Deirdre Mongan are out first in the morning session in their respective finals, F57 discus and F53 shot put. In the evening session, three-time Paralympian wheelchair racer John McCarthy will line up in the heats of the T51m 100m hoping to advance to the final.
Another major championship debutant Waterford’s Hayley Fitzsimons in the final of the F40 shot put.
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