Cork City Sports is proud to announce Anika Thompson (Leevale AC) as the Athlete of the Month for July, following her historic gold medal performance in the 10,000m and bronze medal in the 5,000m at the European Athletics U23 Championships in Bergen
Anika delivered a stirring victory in the women’s 10,000m, becoming just the second Irish athlete ever to win gold at the European U23 Championships—joining Sophie O’Sullivan, who claimed 1500m gold in Espoo in 2023. In an electrifying race, Thompson and Germany’s Kira Weis led from the gun, stride for stride, until Anika surged away on the final lap to claim the title.
Despite a hectic competition and travel schedule, Anika made time to accept the award in person at MTU Stadium, just before departing for the National Senior Championships and returning to the United States.
“This win makes me feel really honoured and happy because Ireland is my country where my family comes from,” said Thompson, a USA-based athlete at the University of Oregon. “I grew up going to Ireland every summer and it was a dream of mine to grow up and represent Ireland in track and field.”
“So this really means a lot to me and I have always wanted to have a race where I could give thanks to all my family, friends, coaches, and especially my family members who came here to support me.”
We congratulate Anika on this incredible achievement and wish her continued success as she proudly represents Ireland on the international stage.On the final day of competition in Bergen, 10000m champion Thompson climbed the podium again after finishing third in the 5000m
The Cork City Sports Athlete of the Month Award is proudly sponsored by Cork’s 96FM & C103FM, The River Lee Hotel, The Echo Live, and Cork Crystal.
