Catz Student Claims Podium Finish in Debut at European U23 Road Race
St Catherine’s College is delighted to celebrate the outstanding achievement of Rebecca Flaherty (2024, Biochemistry), who delivered a remarkable performance while representing England at the Corsa dei Castelli European U23 Road Race in Trieste, Italy, in October.
Rebecca was one of only eight athletes selected by England Athletics for the prestigious international fixture, which sees emerging young talent compete over a challenging 10km point-to-point course beginning at Miramare Castle and finishing at San Giusto Castle.
Racing against some of Europe’s strongest athletes, Rebecca rose to the occasion with remarkable panache. She claimed individual bronze, leading the England women’s team with a personal best of 34:04, a full minute faster than her previous best. Her performance also contributed significantly to England securing silver in the team competition.
Off-Track National Manager Andrew Heyes praised the performance of the U23 England squad, emphasising the importance of international opportunities for young athletes. England Athletics Teams Operations Manager Vicky Griffiths added: “Many congratulations to all the selected athletes and their coaches. This race provides a fantastic opportunity for under 23 athletes to compete against top quality opposition from around Europe.” The England Athletics team consisted of Lucy Armitage, Chris Coulson, Rebecca Flaherty, Megan Gadsby, Sam Hodgson, Matthew Ramsden, Megan Stenhouse, and Finlay Ward, all of whom distinguished themselves and brought pride upon their home clubs with significant individual performances.
Rebecca began her journey at Bradford Grammar School and now competes for both the University of Oxford’s first team and the Bingley Harriers. Speaking to The Yorkshire Post after her achievement, Rebecca shared: “I just loved all sports … I was brought up being active, being outside and in the fresh air has always been part of my day.”
Her success in Trieste follows an impressive season on the national circuit. Since her U23 debut, Rebecca has also competed at the Cardiff Cross Challenge and completed the Great North Run in 1:18:48, contributing to her family’s new Guinness World Record for the fastest combined time on a 13.1-mile course. Just last week, she competed at the British trial for the European Cross Country Championships, and she has been selected to compete for Great Britain in the U23 race. This is one of the more prestigious events in Europe for distance running, and strongly reflects Rebecca’s wonderful season.
St Catherine’s College warmly congratulates Rebecca, her family, and her team mates on their various successes during the last season. We look forward to following her continued exceptional achievements on both the national and the international stage.
Image courtesy of Pierro Emanuele