Pupils at Rhasidat Adeleke’s old primary school in Dublin have been reflecting on her inspirational performances at the European Athletics Championships in Rome.
Adeleke secured a silver medal and set a new Irish record in the final of the 400m last night.
She was also a member of the 4x400m mixed relay team which won gold last week.
The Dubliner was a student at St Mark’s Junior School in Springfield, Tallaght.
“We knew that when she left here ten years ago that wouldn’t be the last we would see of her. We’re just incredibly proud and it has created such a positive buzz in the school, in Springfield, and in Tallaght overall. We’re just so excited to see what’s coming next for her,” said Maeve Cashin, Adeleke’s teacher in fifth and sixth class.
Adeleke’s achievements have certainly created plenty of excitement among the school’s current pupils.
“It’s very inspiring to think that she went to our school,” said sixth class pupil Chloe Kinsella.
“She’s a famous superstar and she went to our school,” added fifth class pupil James O’Reilly.
Speaking to RTÉ Sport after last night’s race, Adeleke said she would “continue training really hard” for the Paris Olympics which get under way on 26 July.
It’s clear that she will have plenty of new fans cheering for her in France.
“I am so proud of her. Knowing that she’s going to the Olympics now is just crazy. She’s from our school – oh my God!” said sixth class pupil Ria Rani.
Watch the video to hear more from the pupils.
