The sporting story
Israel Olatunde brought Dundalk to the start line of the European 100 metres final in Munich in 2022. His 10.17-second run lowered Paul Hession's long-standing Irish record. It was a breakthrough in a discipline decided by hundredths of a second, and the beginning of further national-record performances. Athletics Ireland reported his 10.08 run in London in August 2025, subject to ratification at publication. Olatunde's route from school athletics in Dundalk to international sprinting gives the town's running story a very different rhythm from its distance-running traditions.
A lasting connection.
A Dundalk route into elite sprinting, showing local young athletes a place on the international start line.
Follow the research.
- Athletics Ireland: Olatunde lowers his national 100m record, recalling Munich 2022 ↗
- Athletics Ireland: Dundalk's Olatunde runs 10.08 in August 2025 ↗
- St Mary's College: Israel Olatunde receives Student of the Year in 2019 ↗
Research checked 17 October 2026. This profile describes dated achievements, rather than a live medal or record table.