Doogan Close To Points Race Bronze In Athens

Ciara Doogan went within two points of Ireland's first medal on day three of the European Track Championships in Athens.

Doogan finishing fifth in the Junior Women's Points Race Final, just two points behind Tessa Dijksman having been level with the Dutchwoman going to the final sprint.

After finished second in her qualifying heat, Doogan was one of six riders to gain a lap on the field in the final and accrued points from finishing fourth at the first and fourth sprints to force her way into medal contention at her first major championships.

While her ninth place finish at the final sprint ultimately cost her a medal, it was another impressive performance for the relative track novice who finished ninth in Tuesday's Junior Pursuit.

Elsewhere, there were several strong performances from Irish riders on a busy day for the national squad.

Adam Stenson, fourth, and Michael O'Loughlin, sixth, both qualified comfortably for the Men's Junior Points Race final where the pair were again in the thick of the action.

Dubliner Stenson picked up points for third over the line at two of the sprints on his way to an eventual ninth place finish while Tipperary's O'Loughlin was heavily marked in his bid to win points by gaining a lap and ultimately had to make do with 22nd place.

Josie Knight finished a strong 12th in the Points Race Final, the Kerry teenager belying her callow years to score points in the 23-rider final.

Mark Downey and Javan Nulty both also qualified through to the Men's Under 23 Points Race Final where they accumulated points in a hectic 160 lap affair.

Downey accrued points from four of the sprints, Nulty among the scorers on two occasions in the 40km race.

In amongst all the Points Race action, Eoin Mullen had kicked off the squad's day with a 10.349s 200m effort which was good enough for 14th fastest time in qualifying for the Men's U23 Sprint.

The Aran Islander was paired with Frenchman Thomas Copponi in the round of 16, the latter prevailing in a cagey affair.

Autumn Collins's accumulation of experience at her first major championship event continued apace with 13th in the Women's Junior Points Qualifying Heat, followed by a battling 18th fastest in the Junior 500m Time Trial.

Afterwards, High Performance Coach Brian Nugent described his satisfaction at another series of strong rides by Irish competitors."The Team performed very well today," said Nugent. "With so many of the team making the finals it really put us in a good position for a medal.

"Ciara was excellent In her first international bunch event and was very strong. I believe she will excel in these in the future. Adam showed the speed he has and really shone when he went on the attack.

"With another year in the juniors he will be one to watch for the future. Josie did exceptionally well and stepped up to the level in the U23 event taking points and getting into the action.

"Today highlighted that there is a lot to be excited about for the future. We're all focused on tomorrow and what we can achieve there."