Why successful Irish athletes are such a tonic for the nation

Opinion: These positive female role models are likely to inspire a new generation of girls wanting to follow in the footsteps of the medalists

The European Championships have given us a glorious few days. Indeed, it is many years since we have seen so much Irish success at the athletics track. It is great to see the joy of the winning athletes in their post-run inteviews and this delight is also evident in their families and in the high spirits and confidence in the wider Irish camp and supporters in Rome. Long may it continue.

Sporting successes of this nature can also have ripple effects beyond family and friends. That sense that 'our team' has done well and that ‘we’ as a nation can be amongst the best in Europe (or the world) predictably enough increases sporting pride. Perhaps less predictably, success at sporting mega events can also improve spectators' psychological well-being.

We need your consent to load this rte-player content We use rte-player to manage extra content that can set cookies on your device and collect data about your activity. Please review their details and accept them to load the content. Manage Preferences

From RTÉ Radio 1's Morning Ireland, what's behind the current rise of Irish athletics?

There are other benefits too. First our athletes, both females and males, are really important role models for children and young people. Decades of research tell us you cannot be what you cannot see. This week, our athletes have certainly been seen and there is no doubt they will inspire a new generation of Olympic dreamers.

That so many of the athletes that have been successful in the last week are women is especially welcome. I say this for a couple of reasons. There are very many highly visible role