Cian McPhillips underlines Euro medal potential with classy 800m victory at nationals

Sophie O’Sullivan proved a class apart in the women’s 1500m, breaking the championship record held by her mother Sonia since 1995.

Cian McPhillips: "I’ve been back running properly since May and thankfully it’s been smooth sailing since. It was a bit depressing there for a couple of months, but hopefully this trajectory can continue." Pic: INPHO/Morgan Treacy

With a performance that oozed class and composure, Cian McPhillips claimed the first national outdoor title of his career with a hugely impressive display over 800m in Santry, the Longford native clocking 1:47.76 and looking like he was out for a Sunday jog.

In the absence of chief rival Mark English, who had an issue with his Achilles tendon, McPhillips underlined his medal potential at next month’s European Championships. He drafted behind Raheny’s Cillian Kirwan – who’s run a swift 1:45 this year – as he passed 400m in 51 seconds and then shifted gears on the final turn, putting the race to bed in a flicker.