Cian McPhillips claimed his first national senior title when winning the 800m titles in Dublin.
McPhillips was made work all the way by Cillian Kirwan before winning out in 1:47.76 in Morton Stadium, Santry.
McPhillips big rival Mark English was a late withdrawal from the national championships. However, the Longford man was pushed all the way by Kirwan.
In fact, Kiwan took the race out and led with just 150 metres remaining. Kirwan clocked the first 600m in 79 seconds.
However, McPhillips hit the gas and came home for gold in 1:47.76 with Kirwan of Raheny Shamrock clocking 1:49.36. Bobby More of Bray Runners took bronze in 1:51.05.
“I’m getting there” smiled McPhillips afterwards as he looks to follow up on a season where he finished fourth in the World Championship.
Cian McPhillips eases to an impressive gold in the Men's 800m at the Irish Nationals. Cillian Kirwan is second after setting a blistering early pace.
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“Cillian didn’t hold back. He was chasing the European championship standard and he took off. I was getting a bit worried after 600m with the pace”
“I stayed steady and came through” smiled McPhillips.
“It’s been a tough year” explained McPhillips. “I ran a good 600m indoors in Boston and then had some dental issues”.
“I needed to have four teeth removed and I missed the World indoors over it. Then I had a knee injury”.
“I’m been back running since May” explained McPhillips. “It’s nice to come here and get the victory”.
