Frustration for Byrne

There was disappointment for Irish cross country champion Jolene Byrne in the European Cup 10,000 metres in Barakaldo, Spain, yesterday - despite his fifth-place finish.

The Donore Harrier was hoping to hit the 'A' qualification standard for August's World Championships in Helsinki, but her time of 32 minutes 43.77 seconds was outside of the mark.

The 27-year-old American-born runner will have a few other chances to hit the 31.40 standard, with the qualification period running until July 25.

Marie Davenport is the only Irish woman qualified so far for the 10,000m, having run 31:28.72secs last year.

Donegal man Gary Murray finished 16th of 19 finishers in the European Cup's mens event - clocking 29:36.03.