A Laois cross-country star is set to represent her country with pride in the European Cross Country Championships this weekend.

Portlaoise athlete Mary Mulhare will travel to Lagoa in Portugal for this year's championships on December 14, in the competition's 31st annual event. 

While this feat is a fantastic honour, this is a bittersweet moment for the Portlaoise athlete, who sadly lost her father on November 26.

Mr David Mulhare of Sheffield Cross, Portlaoise was a highly respected man across the county and within the sporting community, with his children Mary and Michael winning medals in cross-country competitions both nationally and internationally.

David was present with Mary and other family members when she was honoured with a Civic Reception by Laois County Council for her sporting achievements in 2023.

A well-known builder, David himself achieved national fame when he joined three of his children to claim second place in the  Ireland's Fittest Families TV series in 2017. 

The family man is sadly missed by many, and dearly loved by his devoted family.

Daughter Mary is no stranger to the European Championships, with this coming weekend being her ninth time to compete in the annual event.

Last year, Mary Mulhare travelled to Antalya, Turkey as part of a 36-strong Irish team, where she came in at an impressive 66th place.

In 2023, Ms Mulhare received a civic reception having won bronze for Ireland in the senior women's 8000m at the Championships in Turin in December 2022.

A teacher at St Mary's CBS in Portlaoise, Mary was given a big homecoming to Laois by Portlaoise Athletics Club that month.

While Laois locals proudly rally around Mary ahead of her race, there is no doubt that David is with her every step of the way. 

Best of luck to Mary!