The accomplished Félix Sesúmaga

Félix Sesúmaga Ugarte, born on October 12, 1898, in Lejona (now Leioa), Spain, was a prominent footballer renowned for his skills as a forward. The best betting online is present at 1xBet, where Spanish football is also available.

Sesúmaga’s early life in the Basque Country fostered his passion for football, and he soon began his career with local clubs. His talent was evident from a young age, and he quickly progressed through the ranks. By 1918, he had made his mark with Arenas Club de Getxo, a team that was part of the burgeoning Spanish football scene. If you like the Spanish La Liga, the best online betting on it can be made through the 1xBet website.

A scoring powerhouse

Sesúmaga’s club career was marked by significant achievements and remarkable statistics. At Arenas Club de Getxo, he played a pivotal role in the team’s success. In the 1918-1919 season, he helped Arenas reach the final of the Copa del Rey. Although they lost to FC Barcelona, Sesúmaga’s performance caught the eye of bigger clubs. An easy bet football can also be made at 1xBet on the Copa del Rey.

In 1921, he joined FC Barcelona, where he truly flourished. During his tenure with Barcelona he accomplished many things, including:

scoring lots of goals;
helping the team claim many Copa del Rey titles;
and being one of the most important players of the team.

An easy football bet is available at 1xBet on all Barcelona’s matches too. His most notable achievement with Barcelona was winning the Copa del Rey in 1922. Sesúmaga scored twice in the final, securing a 5-1 victory over Real Unión. His time at Barcelona saw him become one of the league’s top scorers, with a remarkable goal-scoring rate.

The national team and life after Barcelona

After his successful stint with Barcelona, Sesúmaga moved to Athletic Bilbao in 1923. When you try live sports betting at 1xBet, you can also wager on Athletic Bilbao too.

He continued to showcase his goal-scoring abilities, helping the team secure numerous victories. His tenure with Athletic Bilbao solidified his reputation as one of the most prolific forwards of his time.

Sesúmaga also enjoyed a distinguished international career with the Spanish national team. He was part of the squad that competed in the 1920 Summer Olympics in Antwerp, Belgium. Sesúmaga played a crucial role in Spain’s journey to the silver medal, scoring goals that were vital to the team’s success. Spain’s performance in the 1920 Olympics was historic, marking their first major international football success. His contributions were instrumental in this achievement, and he finished the tournament with 4 goals. The members of 1xBet can also try sports betting live on Olympic football as well.

2024 Paris Olympics : Wednesday review and Thursday Schedule

World Golf Championships-Dell Technologies Match Play - Day Four — Rory McIlroy reacts after making birdie on the 15th green during day four of the World Golf Championships-Dell Technologies Match Play at Austin Country Club on March 25, 2023 in Austin, Texas. Photo by Tom Pennington/Getty Images. Provided by European Tour Group Communications.

2024 Paris Olympics : Wednesday review and Thursday Schedule.

Wednesday, July 31, 2024

Team Ireland showcased their talent in boxing, badminton, and sailing on the fifth afternoon of the 2024 Paris Olympic Games.

**Boxing**
Reigning Olympic champion Kellie Harrington delivered a stellar performance, defeating Colombia’s Valdes Pana with a unanimous 5-0 decision. Harrington’s victory propels her to the semi-finals in the lightweight division (60kg), securing at least a bronze medal. This triumph marks Harrington as the fourth Irish athlete to win medals at two separate Olympic Games, joining the ranks of Dr. Pat O’Callaghan, Paddy Barnes, and Paul O’Donovan.

Harrington will compete in the semi-finals on Saturday, August 3rd, against the winner of the match between Beatriz Ferreira and Chelsey Heijnen.

Jude Gallagher, making his Olympic debut, was defeated in the last 16 of the Featherweight (57kg) category by Carlo Paalam of the Philippines.

**Sailing**
In the Men’s Skiff events in Marseilles, Robert Dickson and Seán Waddilove had a mixed day, finishing 11th in race 10 and 12th in race 11, but secured a crucial 2nd place in race 12. This performance qualifies them for the medal race, where they currently stand second overall.

**Badminton**
Olympic debutant Rachael Darragh faced a tough opponent in Carolina Marin, the Rio 2016 gold medalist. Darragh was defeated 2-0, exiting the Games at the group stages. Meanwhile, Nhat Nguyen lost his final group match against defending champion Viktor Axelsen with a score of 21-13, 21-10.

**Rowing**
Aifric Keogh and Fiona Murtagh were unable to advance to the final, finishing sixth in their semi-final race. Despite the disappointment, they remain committed to showcasing their best in the B final.

Upcoming Events
– Boxing: Aoife O’Rourke (Women’s 75kg) vs. Elzbieta Wojcik (POL) at 8:52 PM
– Swimming: Mona McSharry in the 200m Breaststroke semi-final at 9:03 PM

**Results Summary – July 31, 2024**
– **Badminton:** Nhat Nguyen lost to Viktor Axelsen (21-13, 21-10)
– **Rowing:** Ross Corrigan & Nathan Timoney finished 3rd in semi-final, through to final
– **Swimming:** Mona McSharry qualified for the 200m Breaststroke semi-finals
– **Rowing:** Fiona Murtagh & Aifric Keogh placed 6th in their semi-final
– **Rowing:** Men’s Lightweight Double Sculls won their semi-final
– **Badminton:** Rachael Darragh lost to Carolina Marin (21-5, 21-5)
– **Sailing:** Robert Dickson & Seán Waddilove qualified for the medal race in the Men’s Skiff
– **Boxing:** Kellie Harrington defeated Angie Paola Valdes Pana (5-0)

Upcoming Schedule – August 1, 2024

– **Rowing:** Women’s Double Sculls B final at 9:30 AM
– **Rowing:** Women’s Four B final at 9:54 AM
– **Equestrian:** Jumping Team Qualifier at 10:00 AM
– **Golf:** Men’s Individual, Round 1 starts at 10:10 AM
– **Rowing:** Men’s Double Sculls FINAL at 10:30 AM
– **Swimming:** Men’s 50m Freestyle heats at 10:32 AM and 10:37 AM
– **Sailing:** Men’s Dinghy races at 11:15 AM and 1:20 PM
– **Hockey:** Ireland vs. Argentina at 12:15 PM
– **Sailing:** Men’s Skiff Medal Race at 1:43 PM
– **Canoe Slalom:** Men’s K1 semi-final at 2:30 PM
– **Sailing:** Women’s Dinghy races at 2:35 PM and 4:43 PM
– **Canoe Slalom:** Men’s K1 final at 4:30 PM
– **Boxing:** Women’s 50kg Daina Moorehouse vs. Wassila Lkhadiri (FRA) at 7:00 PM
– **Boxing:** Jack Marley (92kg) vs. Davlat Boltaev (TJK) at 9:08 PM

Stay tuned for more updates on Team Ireland’s performance at the 2024 Paris Olympic Games.

Mcilroy and Lowry tee-times for Thursday Olympic Golf

2024 Olympic Men’s Golf Event Kicks Off at Le Golf National in Paris

The 2024 Olympic men’s golf event begins Thursday, August 1, with the opening round at Le Golf National outside Paris. Full men’s Olympic golf tee times for Thursday’s first round are available at the bottom of this post.

Featured Tee Time for Round 1

After three years of anticipation, the men’s golf event returns to the 2024 Olympics in Paris, marking the third-consecutive Summer Games to feature the sport.

In the 2020 Olympics in Tokyo, American golfer Xander Schauffele claimed the gold medal. With two major wins in 2024, Schauffele has solidified his position as one of the top players in the world, setting him up for a strong bid to defend his gold medal in Paris. Schauffele tees off in Thursday’s opening round at 5:55 a.m. ET, paired with Viktor Hovland and Jon Rahm.

You can watch Thursday’s first round of the men’s Olympic golf event on Golf Channel starting at 3:00 a.m. ET. Peacock will offer a live simulcast of Golf Channel’s coverage online.

Check out the complete Round 1 tee times for the 2024 Olympic golf event below.

2024 Olympic Golf Tee Times for Thursday: Men’s Opening Round (ET)

– **3:00 a.m.** – Victor Perez (France), Matti Schmid (Germany), C.T. Pan (Chinese Taipei)
– **3:11 a.m.** – Thorbjørn Olesen (Denmark), Alejandro Tosti (Argentina), Joaquin Niemann (Chile)
– **3:22 a.m.** – Emiliano Grillo (Argentina), Alex Noren (Sweden), Ryan Fox (New Zealand)
– **3:33 a.m.** – Min Woo Lee (Australia), Corey Conners (Canada), Christian Bezuidenhout (South Africa)
– **3:44 a.m.** – Wyndham Clark (USA), Hideki Matsuyama (Japan), Tommy Fleetwood (Great Britain)
– **3:55 a.m.** – Sepp Straka (Austria), Jason Day (Australia), Tom Kim (Korea)
– **4:11 a.m.** – Scottie Scheffler (USA), Rory McIlroy (Ireland), Ludvig Åberg (Sweden)
– **4:22 a.m.** – Adrien Dumont de Chassart (Belgium), Daniel Hillier (New Zealand), Guido Migliozzi (Italy)
– **4:33 a.m.** – Kiradech Aphibarnrat (Thailand), Gavin Green (Malaysia), Gaganjeet Bhullar (India)
– **4:44 a.m.** – Phachara Khongwatmai (Thailand), Abraham Ancer (Mexico), Dou Zecheng (China)
– **4:55 a.m.** – Yuan Yechun (China), Camilo Villegas (Colombia), Matteo Manassero (Italy)
– **5:06 a.m.** – Adrian Meronk (Poland), Sami Valimaki (Finland), David Puig (Spain)
– **5:17 a.m.** – Erik van Rooyen (South Africa), Keita Nakajima (Japan), Kevin Yu (Chinese Taipei)
– **5:33 a.m.** – Stephan Jaeger (Germany), Nicolai Højgaard (Denmark), Thomas Detry (Belgium)
– **5:44 a.m.** – Byeong Hun An (Korea), Shane Lowry (Ireland), Nick Taylor (Canada)
– **5:55 a.m.** – Xander Schauffele (USA), Viktor Hovland (Norway), Jon Rahm (Spain)
– **6:06 a.m.** – Matthieu Pavon (France), Collin Morikawa (USA), Matt Fitzpatrick (Great Britain)
– **6:17 a.m.** – Shubhankar Sharma (India), Rafael Campos (Puerto Rico), Carlos Ortiz (Mexico)
– **6:28 a.m.** – Nico Echavarria (Colombia), Mito Pereira (Chile), Kris Ventura (Norway)
– **6:39 a.m.** – Fabrizio Zanotti (Paraguay), Joel Girrbach (Switzerland), Tapio Pulkkanen (Finland)

Don’t miss the action as the world’s best golfers compete for Olympic gold at the 2024 Paris Games.

Crucial Day Ahead as Irish Sailors Aim for Podium at Paris Olympics

For a third consecutive day in Marseille (Tuesday, 30 July), Ireland’s Robert Dickson (Howth Yacht Club) and Sean Waddilove (Skerries Sailing Club) are holding second place overall in the men’s skiff event at the Paris 2024 Olympics.

The third day brought markedly different wind conditions, ranging from fresh and gusty to near calm, causing high scores for almost all the top contenders.

Dickson and Waddilove experienced mixed fortunes, starting with a fourth-place finish, followed by a 13th place, and ending with a ninth. These results were enough to maintain their second-place position, while the New Zealand leaders exchanged places with Spain, who moved from third to first.

The fourth and final day of fleet racing is scheduled to begin tomorrow at 1pm (GMT), with three more races concluding the series. The top ten boats will advance to Thursday’s short medal race final.

With another day of mixed conditions expected, anything is possible. For Dickson and Waddilove, the key will be to continue taking one race at a time and not let the significance of the occasion overwhelm their emotions.

“I feel the same as I did at the beginning of the week; I think our process is to just take it race by race and not get too emotional with everything, which seems to be working,” said Sean Waddilove. “I think the best way to stay on the results card at the top end is to stay pretty neutral; you can’t get too happy or too disappointed, especially on a day like today with massive ups and downs in the fleet.”

As the Dublin crew sailed ashore, they were greeted by a loud roar from the crowd gathered along the pier wall at Marina Roucas Blanc, where 150,000 spectator tickets have reportedly been sold for the sailing events.

“My Mum and Dad, my girlfriend, and my family are there. I can barely make them out sometimes because there are so many in a big crowd,” said Dickson after coming ashore. “It’s really nice to see everyone here supporting us, and they’re probably the loudest people on the pier, which is quite nice.”

The conclusion of the Men’s Skiff on Thursday also marks the opening day of racing in both the Men’s Dinghy, featuring Finn Lynch (National Yacht Club), and the Women’s Dinghy, where Eve McMahon (Howth Yacht Club) is making her Olympic debut.

Parrott Joins AZ Alkmaar from Tottenham

In a move that has intrigued both Eredivisie and Premier League fans, Tottenham Hotspur’s Troy Parrott has significantly shifted to Dutch club AZ Alkmaar. The Republic of Ireland international’s transfer comes with a reported fee of £6.7 million (€8 million), marking a new phase in his career.

With AZ Alkmaar finishing fourth in the Eredivisie last season, betting fans are optimistic that Parrott can help push the team into the top three. Fans placing bets on AZ Alkmaar to finish in the top three can use the betano deposit bonus to get a welcome bonus while betting.

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Parrott’s Journey at Tottenham
Parrott’s story is one of talent and untapped potential. Born in Dublin, Parrott joined Tottenham’s youth academy in 2017, quickly making a name for himself with his goal-scoring prowess. He debuted in the Premier League at 17 during the 2019/20 season. However, under the management of Mauricio Pochettino and later Jose Mourinho, Parrott’s opportunities at the senior level remained limited.

His senior debut for Spurs was memorable for its context—a penalty shootout loss to Colchester United in the Carabao Cup’s third round. Subsequent appearances included brief stints in Premier League matches against Burnley and Wolves and a late substitute appearance in the FA Cup against Norwich City. Unfortunately, none of these moments allowed Parrott to cement a regular spot in the first team.

Recognizing the need for more consistent playing time, Tottenham sent Parrott on a series of loan spells. His time at Millwall, Ipswich, MK Dons, and Preston provided valuable experience but did not yield the breakthrough he needed. It was when his loan to Excelsior Rotterdam last season that Parrott began to shine, scoring 17 goals in 32 appearances despite the club’s eventual relegation from the Eredivisie.

A Fresh Start at AZ Alkmaar
Parrott’s impressive performance in the Eredivisie did not go unnoticed. AZ Alkmaar, a club known for developing young talent, saw potential in the 22-year-old striker. Signing a five-year contract that extends until the summer of 2029, Parrott views AZ as the perfect environment to continue his development.

“I think AZ is the perfect club for me to take the next steps in my development,” Parrott stated on the club’s official website. Following his stint with Excelsior, his familiarity with Dutch football undoubtedly influenced his decision. The competition and lifestyle in the Netherlands are no longer unknowns, giving Parrott a sense of continuity as he embarks on this new journey.

AZ Alkmaar finished fourth in the Eredivisie last season. Parrott’s addition to their squad is not just a boost in talent but also signals the club’s intent to challenge for higher honors. For Parrott, it’s an opportunity to become a key player for a team on the rise.
Reflecting on Tottenham’s Decision
From Tottenham’s perspective, the sale of Troy Parrott reflects their current strategic direction and recognizes the player’s need for growth opportunities. Spurs’ academy has been a fertile ground for young talents, but only some prospects find their place within the first team.

The reported fee of £6.7 million represents a significant investment for AZ and a decent return for Tottenham, considering Parrott’s limited impact on the senior squad.

With his contract initially set to expire in 2025, the timing of the transfer allows Tottenham to recoup value while granting Parrott a chance to flourish elsewhere.
Final Words
Troy Parrott’s move to AZ Alkmaar is a compelling chapter in his career. At 22, he stands at the crossroads of potential and performance. The Eredivisie has been a fertile ground for many young talents looking to make their mark, and Parrott’s prior experience in the league gives him a unique advantage.

For AZ Alkmaar, securing Parrott’s services is a strategic win, aligning with their tradition of nurturing young players and competing at the top level of Dutch football.

For Tottenham, it’s a moment of reflection on the pathways available to their academy graduates and the ever-present challenge of integrating young talent into a high-stakes Premier League environment.

Sirius is 50/1 surprise winner of Connacht Hotel Handicap at Galway

Sirius and David Dunsdon — Sirius is surrounded by Jackie and Willie Mullins and winning jockey David Dunsdon. Credit: Breandán Ó hUallacháin.

Willie Mullins trained Sirius to win the Connacht Hotel (Q.R.) Handicap, the premier event of day one of the 2024 Galway Races.

The champion National Hunt conditioner training the winner of a major race at an Irish racing festival was no surprise, but what was a shock was the 50/1 price of the winner in the hands of English amateur rider David Dunsdon.

Right at the bottom of the handicap, carrying 10-13, Dunsdon came late and wide on the eventual winner in the colours of Coldunell Limited to take victory in the opening day feature by three and a half lengths.

Another big-priced runner, Baltic Bird (25/1), ridden by County Cork jockey Johnny Barry for owner/trainer Bill Durkan. Spasiba (8/1), another Closutton runner, this one the mount of Jody Townend was third one and a half lengths behind the runner-up.

Eleven-year-old Lord Erskine was fourth for trainer Harry Rogers at 33/1 another one and three-quarters of a length back in fourth place.

Lot Of Joy (4/1f), another Willie Mullins-trained runner, ridden by his son, Patrick, eventually finished in 9th place.

Danny Mullins and Richard O’Brien claim 2024 Festival opener

The well-supported Feud (16/5) was an easy winner of the opening The Galmont Hotel and The Galway Bay Hotel Novice Hurdle.

Ridden by Danny Mullins for Richard O’Brien, the winner was well placed throughout the 2 miles 130 yards contest, before putting three and a half lengths between himself and the runner-up Mordor (15/2), the mount of Sam Ewing for the Gordon Elliott stable. Pigeon House (4/1), who was close to the front of the field throughout crossed the finishing line in third place, a further six and a half lengths behind.

The race favourite, the French-bred Willie Mullins-trained Sysko (9/4f) was never a threat, and finished in fourth place on his Irish debut.

County Meath-trained double on day one

Father and son Matthew and Kevin Smith teamed up to easily win the Easyfix Handicap Hurdle over 2 miles 130 yards.

The Co Meath outfit claimed the win Son Of Hypnos (16/1) who was a facile 10-length winner over Clonburg Bridge (16/1), with Vischio (10/1) and Harley Street (17/2) taking third and fourth places respectively.

Smith’s fellow Co Meath-based conditioner Jack Davison also returned to the winner’s enclosure, with Artful Approach (7/1), in The Clayton Hotel Galway Handicap.

In the hands of five-pound claimer James Ryan, the chestnut gelded son of Mehmas came on the outside of the field in the dying stages of the 7-furlong 50-80 Handicap, to take the win by one and a half lengths, with a short-head separating the runner-up and third, Cuban Confusion (10/1) and Louiescall (10/1). The 100/30 race favourite, Avatar Jet, crossed the line back in 12th place.

Rock Of Cashel loses maiden tag

Rock Of Cashel (3/1), eighth on debut at The Curragh last month, broke quickly at Ballybrit today, and was at the head of the field for the duration of the seven furlongs race.

When Wayne Lordan asked the son of Wootton Bassett to take his race, the two-year-old colt powered up the Galway hill and take a two and a quarter length win from another 3/1 shot Admiral Churchill under Billy Lee for the Paddy Twomey stable, with Joseph O’Brien’s Viking Invasion (7/1) next home, a further length behind.

The Dermot Weld-handled favourite Truth Be Told (13/8) finished fourth, another length and a half back.

Tony Mullins and Rory Cleary teamed up for success in The Grá Chocolates Handicap over 1 mile 4 furlongs and 84 yards at 7.45pm.

Conor Purcell wins maiden Challenge Tour title at Galgorm

Black Desert NI Open presented by Tom McKibbin 2024 - Day Four — Conor Purcell with the trophy after winning the Black Desert NI Open presented by Tom McKibbin 2024 at Galgorm Castle Golf Club. Credit: Patrick Bolger/Getty Images.

Conor Purcell held his nerve to claim a maiden Challenge Tour title in the Black Desert NI Open presented by Tom McKibbin at Galgorm, County Antrim, on Sunday.

The Irish golfer signed for a one over par final round of 71 to finish 13 under par for the tournament, one stroke clear of overnight leader Joakim Lagergren on a dramatic final day.

The 27-year-old climbs to fourth in the season-long Road to Mallorca Rankings with a win and was delighted to come out on top after going shot-for-shot with Lagergren across the entirety of the weekend.

“I’m over the moon and kind of lost for words,” he said. “I’ve waited a long time for this and for it to happen, with all my family out here today, is just amazing.

“The support out there calmed me down. Knowing that they were all there to support me made a difference.

“Joakim is a fierce competitor and a proven winner, and he’s won here before, so I knew not to take him lightly. I’m just pleased because I putted terribly today but I managed to get the job done.”

Purcell started the day one stoke behind Lagergren, but after mixing two birdies with five bogeys on the front nine, made the turn searching for a spark to kick-start his round.

An eagle on the par five tenth did just that, with Purcell joining Lagergren at the top of the leaderboard, before a dropped shot at hole 13 saw him one adrift with five holes to play.

Purcell then birdied the 15th, and when Lagergren bogeyed the same hole, a two-shot swing saw Purcell move into the solo lead for the first time on the final day, before he parred his way home for a memorable victory.

“On 18, it was the calmest I felt all day”

“I knew it was going to be tough but that there were chances on the back nine,” he added. “It was a big momentum swing when I held the putt on the tenth for eagle.

“I missed a chance on 14 to get back level, but made a nice birdie to go one ahead on 15 and then played really good golf coming in.

“On 18, it was the calmest I felt all day. After a few loose shots at the start of the day, I got into the flow of things and felt very in control and knew the job I had to do.

“Every time you can have a win, you can shoot up the Rankings, but there’s still a lot of golf to play over the rest of the year.”

Englishman Jack Senior posted a three under par round of 67 to finish in third, with Frenchman Robin Sciot-Siegrist two shots further back in fourth. Dane Hamish Brown and South African Robin Williams finished in a share of fifth on eight under par.

Purcell now fourth in Road to Mallorca rankings

Purcell climbs 20 places to fourth in the Road to Mallorca Rankings on 683 points, while Dane Rasmus Neergaard-Petersen remains in pole position on 1,061 points. Englishman John Parry sits second on 1,007, and Spaniard Joel Moscatel remains in third place on 870 points.

The Road to Mallorca continues next week with the Irish Challenge taking place at The K Club in Co Kildare from August 1-4.

Select scores after round four with Irish players in bold:

267 C PURCELL 66 65 65 71,
268 J LAGERGREN (SWE) 63 71 61 73,
269 J SENIOR (ENG) 67 69 66 67,
271 R SCIOT-SIEGRIST (FRA) 65 71 65 70,
272 R WILLIAMS (RSA) 69 69 67 67, H BROWN (DEN) 69 68 66 69,
273 L BJERREGAARD (DEN) 68 68 70 67, A QUIROS (ESP) 68 69 67 69, P PINEAU (FRA) 69 66 67 71,
274 R MCGOWAN (ENG) 68 72 67 67, A HALVORSEN (NOR) 72 69 66 67,
275 J FREIBURGHAUS (SUI) 72 69 68 66, O GUILLAMOUNDEGUY (FRA) 67 69 72 67, A CHESTERS (ENG) 68 72 66 69, W BESSELING (NED) 70 64 71 70, T HUNT (WAL) 67 69 68 71,
276 M LINDBERG (SWE) 68 72 71 65, M GIBOUDOT (FRA) 73 68 67 68, L VAN MEIJEL (NED) 71 70 66 69,

281 G HURLEY (IRL) 67 70 69 75,
282 J CALDWELL 70 71 71 70,

Sunday’s news and reaction from Paris 2024

Many Irish competitors were in action on day two of Paris 2024.

Main Headlines

Three of the five Irish boats in action this morning, including reigning Olympic champions Fintan McCarthy and Paul O’Donovan, qualified directly through to the semi-finals of their respective events.

The women’s lightweight double qualifying for the repechage tomorrow where they will have a second chance to secure a semi-final spot, and the women’s four also going to the repechage of their event.

Sligo’s Sligo swimmer Mona McSharry set a new Irish record of 1:05.51 in the semi-final of the women’s 100m breaststroke as she qualified in style for tomorrow night’s final ranked second on times.

Tokyo bronze medallist Aidan Walsh lost out to his hometown opponent Makan Traore of France in the preliminaries of the welterweight division (71kg).

Sarah Ennis was the first of the Eventing trio to tackle the cross country course at the Palace of Versailles and got them off to a great start with a clear round and only a minor time penalty.

Susie Berry also with a clear round and just some time penalties.

Austin O’Connor was the final Irish rider out and recorded a clear round without any time penalties.

Eventing Team Ireland have been forced to replace Sarah Ennis and Action Lady M with Aoife Clarke and Sportsfield Freelance as a result of a minor injury to Ennis’ horse after this morning’s effort.

Sailors Robert Dickson and Seán Waddilove impressed to win the third of their 12 qualifying races in the Skiff this afternoon, having earlier placed fourth in the second race.

Boxing Offaly welterweight (66kg) Grainne Walsh was beaten by Hungarian opponent Anna Luca Hamori in the preliminaries 4-1.

The first ever Irish Women’s Rugby Sevens team at an Olympic Games bounced back from an earlier 21-12 to Britain with a 38-0 win over South Africa.

Swimming

Ireland’s Mona McSharry had the swim of her life in the 100m Breaststroke semi-final tonight recording a new Irish record to book her place in Monday’s final. The now two-time Olympic finalist progresses as second seed.

Sligo’s McSharry posted her second fastest time ever in this morning’s heats in 1:05.74 and went on to lower that to 1:05.51 this evening, which shaves four hundredths of a second off her own Irish record of 1:05.55 from the 2023 World Championships.

Swimming in the second semi-final McSharry was out in 30.96, slower than this morning’s 30.82, but a back half 34.55 was quicker than the 34.92 split this morning. The Sligo woman was second in her semi-final behind South Africa’s Tatjana Smith (1:05.00) while 2024 World Champion China’s Qianting Tang won the first semi-final in 1:05.83. World Record holder Lily King was third behind McSharry in 1:05.64.

“I can’t ask for anything better”

A delighted McSharry spoke after the race:

“It was very good, I’m happy with that, progressing through the rounds, I can’t ask for anything better and I have a place in the final, that was really the only job of the semis – to progress, so yeah I’m happy with that.”

Earlier in the day, McSharry had impressed on her Paris debut with her second fastest time ever in the 100m Breaststroke to advance to this evening’s semi-final in third place overall. Out in 30.82 and home in 34.92, the Tokyo finalist in the event clocked 1:05.74, just outside her Irish Record of 1:05.55 from the 2023 World Championships.

McSharry was second in her heat behind China’s Qianting Tang (1:05.63), with South Africa’s Tatijana Smith posting the fastest time of the heats in 1:05.00.

Rowing

Day two was very successful, with the Lightweight Women’s Double Sculls in the Repêchage tomorrow and the Women’s Four on Wednesday, while the remaining five boats go straight through to the semi-finals later in the week.

Women’s Pair (Fiona Murtagh & Aifric Keogh)
Fiona Murtagh and Aifric Keogh demonstrated their strength and synergy, finishing 2nd in their heat. Their performance secured them a place in the Semi Final on Wednesday, starting at 9:54 am GMT.

Men’s Pair (Ross Corrigan & Nathan Timoney)
In a nail-biting photo finish, Ross Corrigan and Nathan Timoney clinched 3rd place in their heat, ensuring their progression to the Semi Final on Wednesday, beginning at 9:34 am GMT.

Lightweight Women’s Double Sculls (Mags Cremen & Aoife Casey)
Mags Cremen and Aoife Casey fought hard to secure 3rd place in their heat. They will compete in the Repêchage tomorrow, Monday, at 10:00 am GMT, aiming for a spot in the Semi Final.

Lightweight Men’s Double Sculls (Fintan McCarthy & Paul O’Donovan)
Reigning Olympic Champions Paul O’Donovan and Fintan McCarthy opened their Paris campaign with another convincing win in the heats of the LM2x. Moving up into first place after 600 meters, there was no catching the Irish double as they increased their lead stroke by stroke. Cruising through the finish line, there was never a doubt on their progression to the next round. They take to the water next on Wednesday morning where they will need to be in the top three to make it to the final.

Women’s Four (Emily Hegarty, Eimear Lambe, Natalie Long, Imogen Magner)
The Women’s Four team of Emily Hegarty, Eimear Lambe, Natalie Long, and Imogen Magner put in a solid performance, securing 3rd place in their heat. They will compete in the Repêchage on Tuesday at 10:30 am GMT, seeking to advance further in the competition.

Garth Young, Rowing Ireland High Performance Chairperson said of the Irish rowing squad:

“The absolute belief, drive, dedication, and commitment of our athletes and coaches are truly inspiring. It is this unwavering determination that fuels their pursuit of excellence on the world stage. The athletes have shown incredible resilience and strength, not just in their physical training but also in their mental preparation and focus.

“We are confident in our team’s potential to perform to their very best at these Games, and we are deeply grateful to everyone who has supported us along the way.”

Boxing

Aidan Walsh’s dream of winning a second Olympic boxing medal ended with a 4-0 defeat by France’s Mahan Traore in the preliminary round of the 71kg at the North Paris Arena. The Tokyo bronze medallist got off to a great start, winning the first round unanimously on a 5-0 score.

Traore got in a big right hand early on the re-start and won the second round 4-1, leaving everything hinged on the final round. The Belfast man’s hopes of progressing were dealt a hammer blow early in the third when he got an official warning for ‘holding’, which automatically docked him by a point, resulting in victory for the home boxer on a 4-0 decision.

Afterwards Walsh said: “When you win the first round so clearly you just keep doing what you’re doing and it just usually goes for you. I know I got a warning in the third, I don’t really know why because I’ve been doing that all my career, hitting and holding. Usually you get a few cautions before you get a proper warning, but the referees seem to be clamping down on that in the last few months.

“I’m obviously bitterly disappointed”

There was huge disappointment for Offaly boxer Gráinne Walsh whose Olympic debut ended in a 4-1 split decision defeat by Hungary’s Anna Luca Hamori in the preliminary round of the 66kg welterweight division.

Afterwards Walsh said: “I’m obviously bitterly disappointed. I just feel like I didn’t get a flow at all. I’m a fighter that relies very much on getting into my flow and using my reflexes and stuff. Anytime I got close she was leaning on me. I was trying to set my hands free. “I’m not blaming her for it. She did what she had to do to win the fight. I’m just frustrated,”

Monkstown BC’s first ever Olympian Jack Marley have Ireland a first victory in the ring at Paris 2024 when defeating Bereznicki of Poland in the last 16 of the heavyweight division (92kg) this evening.

Marley had beaten the same Polish opponent en route to his European U22 title in 2022 but he treated him with the ultimate respect and started like a train, landing an early right hook and a barrage of counter punches to win the first round 4-1.

“I knew I had to start as I mean to go on”

Twenty-one-year-old Marley took an early right hand from his much taller opponent early in the second round but kept attacking at great pace and won the second round by the same 4-1 margin. With just one round to go he played it slightly more evasive in the third but still landed some big punches and earned another 4-1 result, winning the fight on a majority 4-1 margin.

Afterwards Marley said: “It was my Olympic boxing debut, I knew I had to start as I mean to go on and that’s what I did. He was actually a different fighter than when I fought him last, he was much more on the back foot this time. Last time he was trying to meet me. He was using his distance this time so every step I took, he was taking two back so I had to adapt and that’s why I upped the pace, it worked well. I got told ‘have no regrets!’ about two minutes before I stepped into the ring and I’ll aways remember that.”

Equestrian

Sarah Ennis got the Irish team off to an almost perfect start on Eventing day two in Versailles. After a slightly disappointing score in her dressage test yesterday, Ennis and Action Lady M came home on a score of 41.2 after a clear round with just 3.2 time penalties to bring the Irish back into contention with Susie Berry and Austin O’Connor to come later. Pathfinder Ennis set off fourth of all competitors and superbly navigated the track coming home just outside the allowed time.

“She was incredible – where the crowds didn’t help in the dressage ring, they actually helped out there today. I’ve never seen so many people! She can be a little spooky and she actually backed away from the crowds, and I could ride around the turns. I stuck to the plan, and she was on it all the way. The ground hasn’t dried overnight and I nearly slipped in the woods but that was the only real scare. She actually lost a couple of shoes out on the track so fair dues to her – it really was a brilliant performance.”

Susie Berry followed up with another clear round on board Wellfields Lincoln, finishing with 15.2 time penalties. After a score of 33.0 in dressage yesterday, Berry moves to 48.2 after day two and, with the complexion of the competition ever changing with eliminations and retirements to riders from fancied nations, the Irish remain optimistic.

Cork’s Austin O’Connor delivered a foot-perfect clear cross country round within the time on board Colorado Blue to lie 14th individually in the Eventing. O’Connor and his grey came home one second under the limit to remain on his dressage score of 31.7 – leaving Ireland on a team total of 121.10 in eighth place. O’Connor was delighted and relieved in equal measure with his performance.

“He was electric … he’s just phenomenal”

“He was electric, even with his reputation on the cross country it’s a massive mighty relief to have it behind us. He was super the whole the whole way around. He was quick, he was good, he did what he’s good at – clear inside the time for the second time at an Olympics. He’s just phenomenal, and I’m beginning to hope he stays around forever. He’s an incredible horse, whatever he does from here on, he’s been the horse of a lifetime for me and he’s feeling as good as ever.”

Sailing

Ireland’s Robert Dickson (Howth Yacht Club) and Seán Waddilove (Skerries Sailing Club) started their second Olympic Games as they did their first in Tokyo three years ago with a race win on their opening day in Marseille in the Men’s Skiff event.

The Dublin pair were ninth in the first race but then scored a fourth in their second, with both races sailed in very light winds. After a move to a different course for the third race of the day, the breeze picked up and Dickson and Waddilove led for the entire race. The last race win put them into second place overnight with a further three days of fleet racing to sail.

“Probably three firsts would have been nice,” commented Waddilove when asked if a better opening day could be scripted. “But it was very tricky – the first two races – so we’re really happy to come away with the results we did.”

Their standout performance was in the third and final race where they finished first as conditions improved and the breeze strengthened. Dickson and Waddilove.

Women’s Rugby Sevens

Ireland Women’s Sevens made history on Sunday afternoon as they ran out for their long-awaited Olympic Games debut at Stade de France, but their Paris opener ultimately ended in disappointment as they suffered a 21-12 defeat to Britain.

A first-half double from Amee-Leigh Murphy Crowe had given Ireland a half-time lead against familiar rivals Britain, but two quickfire tries at the start of the second half put GB in the lead and they showed composure to see the result out and claim the first win of Pool A.

Speaking afterwards, captain Lucy Mulhall Rock said:

“That result means we’re not where we want to be after game one but I’m extremely proud of the team for the fight we showed throughout. Unfortunately we lost possession at key moments at the start of the second half and that cost us, but we need to take our learnings from that and move on quickly now.

This evening the Ireland Women’s Sevens produced a brilliant performance in their second Pool B outing with a 38-0 victory over South Africa at Stade de France.

Allan Temple-Jones’ side scored six tries during a blistering display, clinching their first ever Olympic victory. Galway’s Béibhinn Parsons scored a try in each half, while Stacey Flood, Vicky Elmes Kinlan, Amee-Leigh Murphy Crowe, and Eve Higgins also crossed to leave Ireland third in Pool B heading into tomorrow’s clash with Australia at 1.30pm.

Pool B is delicately poised heading into Monday’s action, with the top two teams and the two best third placed teams advancing through to the quarter-finals. Earlier Australia impressed massively in beating Britain 38-5 in their second Pool encounter.

Speaking this evening after Ireland’s win over South Africa, winger Béibhinn Parsons said:

“We were extremely disappointed with our result against Great Britain so we needed to come together and find a response against a tough South African team. There was a big focus on accuracy for us in this game and we were able to execute at key moments, presenting us with try-scoring opportunities that we took. It was really pleasing to build up a big score too as we know it will be a tight fight for the quarter-finals, so every point will matter tomorrow.”

Team Ireland Results Sunday, 28th July 2024

Rowing, Women’s Pair (W2-), Fiona Murtagh & Aifric Keogh, 2nd in heat in 7:28.22, straight through to semi-finals (31stJul)

Rowing, Men’s Pair (M2-), Ross Corrigan & Nathan Timoney, 3rd in heat in 6:32.69, straight through to semi-finals (31stJul)

Rowing, Women’s Lightweight Double Sculls (LW2x), Margaret Cremen & Aoife Casey, 3rd in heat in 7:12.89, through to repechage tomorrow (29Jul)

Boxing, Men’s 71kg, Prelims (Rd of 32), Aidan Walsh Beaten by Traore (FRA) 4-0

Swimming, Women’s 100m Breaststroke, Mona McSharry, 2nd in heat in 1:05.74, through to semi-final tonight, (S/F 2/2)

Equestrian – Eventing Cross Country – team and individual, Sarah Ennis, on a score of 41.20

Rowing, Men’s Lightweight Double Sculls (LM2x), Paul O’Donovan & Fintan McCarthy, 1st in heat in 6:34.12, through to semi-finals (31stJul)

Rowing, Women’s Four (W4-), Emily Hegarty, Natalie Long, Eimear Lambe & Imogen Magner, 3rd in heat in 6:51.75, through to repechage (30thJul)

Equestrian – Eventing Cross Country – team and individual, Susie Berry, on a score of 48.2

Sailing, Men’s Skiff, Robert Dickson and Seán Waddilove, 9th in race 1

Equestrian – Eventing Cross Country – team and individual, Austin O’Connor, on a score of 31.70, team currently 8th overall with show jumping tomorrow

Sailing, Men’s Skiff, Robert Dickson and Seán Waddilove, 4th in race 2

Sailing, Men’s Skiff, Robert Dickson and Seán Waddilove, 1st in race 3, lying 2nd with 9 qualifying races to go

Women’s Rugby Sevens, Pool B, Ireland 12-21 Great Britain

Boxing, Women’s 66kg, Grainne Walsh Beaten by Anna Luca Hamori (HUN) 4-1 split decision

Women’s Rugby Sevens, Pool B, Ireland 38-0 South Africa

Boxing, Men’s 92kg, Prelims (Rd of 32), Jack Marley Beats Mateusz Bereznicki (POL) 4-1

Swimming Women’s 100m Breaststroke semi-finals, Mona McSharry, 2nd in semi-final in NR 1:05.51, through to final tomorrow

Jessica Burke and Express Trend win Queen Elizabeth II Cup at Hickstead

Galway’s Jessica Burke and the Irish Sport Horse Express Trend won an all-female jump-off in the Queen Elizabeth II Cup at Hickstead on Saturday.

With five of the 28 starters going through to a jump-off, Sally Goding and Spring Willow set the pace with a clear in 40.51seconds.

Three poles fell for Gemma Ellison with Helsinki VDL, before the 2009 winner Laura Renwick and Iron Lady Van De Kranenburg knocked almost 2 seconds off the lead time.

Allana Clutterbuck and Vykinbay then had a fence down, leaving Galway’s Jessica Burke to chase the top prize.

First Queen Elizabeth II Cup Win

The Irish rider took 0.83 seconds off Laura Renwick’s time to land the Queen Elizabeth II Cup for the first time.

“It hasn’t sunk in yet to be honest!” said a delighted Jessica. “When you look back on all the days I spent at home watching Hickstead on the TV, you grow up dreaming of things like this, so to put my name on the trophy is very special.”

Former maths teacher Burke moved to England from her native Galway five years ago to ride for the Arion Stud in Hampshire. She immediately made an impact in the sport, winning her first international Grand Prix soon after making the move across the water.

The Horse of a Lifetime

With Liam Nicholas’ 14-year-old Irish Sport Horse Express Trend, Jessica has gone on to have five-star success and represented Ireland on Nations Cup teams. The pair were also the winners of the LeMieux All-England Grand Prix at Hickstead’s September Tour in 2023.

“He is amazing, I don’t really have the words for him. He is the horse of a lifetime for me, he’s changed my life in a lot of ways and taught me some good lessons, so to win this with him is really special,” she added.

Jessica now has her sights set on a new Hickstead ambition – to be selected for the Irish team for the Agria Nations Cup of Great Britain. “I definitely want to jump on the team next year – that’s the next target for sure. It’s an amazing arena and an amazing show,” she said.