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Irish Paralympians Orla Comerford and Shauna Bocquet delivered strong performances at the 50th edition of the Prefontaine Classic in Eugene, Oregon on Saturday, as Para Athletics featured prominently alongside the prestigious Diamond League schedule.

The Prefontaine Classic, celebrating its 50th anniversary this year, hosted four Para Athletics events, including appearances from multiple Paralympic and world medalists. The meet drew a world-class lineup, including 48 Olympic and Paralympic gold medallists, 98 total medallists, and 14 current world record holders.

Comerford successfully defended her title in the Women’s Para Athletics 100m Mixed Classification, crossing the line first in 12.14 seconds. The Raheny sprinter showcased her trademark power and consistency in a closely contested race, matching her winning time from the 2024 edition of the event. Her win in Eugene follows a new personal best of 11.87 seconds set at the Oslo Bislett Games.

Shauna Bocquet faced a world-class field in the Women’s 800m T54, racing against two of the most accomplished athletes in Para Athletics. Léa Bayekula (BEL), the reigning T54 double gold medalist from Paris 2024, and Tatyana McFadden (USA), a seven-time Paralympian with 20 career medals, led a highly competitive lineup. In challenging conditions and against this level of opposition, Bocquet delivered a strong performance to place fifth in 1:55.76.

About the Prefontaine Classic

The Prefontaine Classic was established in 1975 in memory of Steve Prefontaine, one of the most iconic figures in American distance running. Prefontaine was a charismatic and fearless competitor who held every American record from 2,000 to 10,000 metres during his career. A native of Oregon and a University of Oregon standout, he helped bring international attention to American track and field in the early 1970s.

Tragically, Prefontaine died in a car crash at just 24 years old, shortly after competing in a meet in Eugene. The meet was renamed in his honor, and it has since grown into a cornerstone of the World Athletics Diamond League, held annually at the legendary Hayward Field, the same track where Prefontaine trained and raced.

Over five decades, the Prefontaine Classic has become synonymous with world-class competition and fast performances. It has witnessed countless world records, breakout performances, and historic moments across every discipline, earning its reputation as one of the most prestigious one-day athletics meets in the world.

This year marked the 50th anniversary of the Prefontaine Classic and saw Para Athletics integrated once again alongside Diamond League events, continuing a growing commitment to inclusion at major international competitions. The 2025 edition featured four Para Athletics events, giving para-athletes a global stage alongside Olympic and world champions.