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Mayo Man Aichlinn O’Reilly was in action for Ireland in the Elite Men’s race at the 2024 World Triathlon Long Distance Championships Townsville last week.

O’Reilly burst onto the professional long distance scene late last year making his debut at Busselton Ironman in Western Australia, taking down the Irish record in the process. O’Reilly who is now currently based on Australia O’Reilly exited the water in 5th position, with the top separated by a mere 15 seconds as they
entered T1. He put together a strong bike split, despite admitting to fading in the last 10km due to what he states was likely a nutritional mistake and something that can be easily fixed in future races.

Heading out onto the run, O’Reilly cited achilles pain flaring up almost immediately along with blisters forming on his foot, forcing a tough decision on whether to continue to push through or consider the ability to toe the line at upcoming races in the near future. O’Reilly ultimately stopped to bandage the blisters and considered continuing before making the decision to withdraw from the race.

Speaking online a few days after the race, O’Reilly said, “First time in 8 years I got to put on the Irish suit. Always a proud moment to represent the homeland but sadly it didn’t pan out as I hoped. “[A] Few issues on the run meant I pulled the plug 13 km into the run. I thought I was in 8th at the time but turns out I was 7th as an athlete ahead of me also pulled out. Very disappointed but feeling a lot more hopeful I will be back soon enough than I was immediately after the race.”

O’Reilly now hopes to recover in time for his next race in October, Ironman Malaysia. We wish the Irish record holder the best of luck in his recovery and next challenge.