Two of the Isle of Man’s leading sprinters gained more valuable international experience when they competed at the Meeting Arcobaleno last week.
This is an international athletics meeting held each summer at Celle Ligure in north-west Italy.
Meghan Pilley and Lydia Morris both finished outside their personal best times, although that was to be expected after recent injury setbacks. The priority was to come through the meeting pain-free while producing solid performances, and both athletes successfully achieved that objective.
Step in Career
For Meghan, it marked a welcome return to full-speed racing after not competing at maximum pace since Malta five weeks earlier. Lydia, meanwhile, enjoyed another memorable step in her athletics career, competing in only her second European meeting.
Originally expecting to contest one race, she was called into a second event with just 20 minutes’ notice, adding to an experience she described as unforgettable, with new friendships, Italian hospitality and plenty of confidence for the future.
Both athletes paid tribute to those who helped make the trip possible.
Meghan thanked coach Tom Riley, Strength and Conditioning coach Ben Carling for adapting her training during her recovery, and the Martin Bullock Athletes Fund for its financial support. Lydia expressed her gratitude to coach Tom Riley and IOM Sport Aid for their continued backing.