Tokyo 2020: Team Ireland profiles - Robert McDonnell (Athletics)

At 19, McDonnell is the youngest member of the track and field team

Robert McDonnell (second right) at this year’s National Championships. Photograph: Bryan Keane/Inpho
Robert McDonnell (second right) at this year’s National Championships. Photograph: Bryan Keane/Inpho

Age: 19

Event: Mixed 4x400m Relay Team

Club: Galway City Harriers

The youngest track and field member, McDonnell has continued his rapid rise in 2021 with a brilliant 400m best of 46.59 at the Mary Peters Track in Belfast in May. McDonnell would go on to secure the U-20 national title at 200m, before finishing with bronze in the 400m at the national senior championships.

Ian O'Riordan

Ian O'Riordan

Ian O'Riordan is an Irish Times sports journalist writing on athletics