European gold medallist's win celebrated in County Roscommon village

There is a Roscommon link to a European champion
European gold medallist's win celebrated in County Roscommon village

Mark English celebrates after winning gold in the 800 metres final. Mark's grandfather Pat hailed from Knockcroghery. Picture: INPHO/Morgan Treacy

The village of Knockcroghery has cause to celebrate after Mark English claimed an historic European gold medal last night.

Mark’s grandfather Pat English hailed from Knockcroghery and previously represented Roscommon and Connacht on the football field.

Pat came from Corbooley in Knockcroghery and won two senior county football medals with the great St. Patrick’s team in 1945 and ’46.

He subsequently moved to Donegal where he worked as a Garda.

Mark English became the first Irish man to win a European outdoor title in any event as he stormed to victory in the 800 metres final on what was an historic evening for Irish athletics.

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