Age remains no barrier for Ambrose

Meet the man who is able to sprint 100 metres in his eighties.

By the time most people turn 80, they are left to reminisce on their sporting careers from yesteryear.

However, Ambrose Kilcline is different. The 81-year-old is embarking on a different sporting journey, having secured a bronze medal at the Athletics Ireland National Masters Finals in the 100 metres sprint for 80-85-year-olds.

Amazingly, Ambrose only joined Roscommon Harriers AC this year after watching his son Cathal racing. The father and son both ran in Tullamore at the National Championships with Cathal securing medals in the 100 metres and 200 metres events in the Over 40 category.

Ambrose stated that watching Cathal run inspired him to try out racing on the track, stating his experience of the national event was a positive one.

“The atmosphere was very good, and the people were very supportive of us all. There was always a great atmosphere, so Cathal said to me ‘why don’t you run yourself’. Then I started. I found it very enjoyable and even my GP Brendan Crosbie was saying if there is anything you can do that keeps you active, then do it if you can.

“Frank Murphy, the chairperson of Roscommon Harriers was very supportive, so I enjoyed the experience and hopefully I can improve a bit on it,” he noted.

Ambrose played football with Kilbride in the 1960 and early seventies. He previously worked for Teagasc in Roscommon. During retirement, he kept himself busy on the family farm, helping him to keep his body and mind active. He also keeps himself fit by going on frequent walks.

His new sporting passion is fully supported by his wife Helen, his sons Cathal and Kevin alongside his daughter Amy.

One day, Ambrose hopes to build on his bronze medal in the future.

“I intend to practice a bit more and improve the running a bit. I find running very helpful, so I plan to keep on going. I will be going for gold next year,” Ambrose concluded.