Online Reporter
Ellina Mhlanga
Zimpapers Sports Hub
ZIMBABWEAN triathlete Rachel O’Donoghue found consolation in Lithuania after she placed fifth overall in a local race held on Sunday in Moletai.
O’Donoghue was set to make her debut at the 2026 Europe Triathlon Junior Cup Moletai on Saturday, but the event was cancelled due to bad weather.
However, the organisers held a local race on Sunday, providing an opportunity for the participants who missed out on the official race to at least get a feel for the competition.
They competed over the super sprint distance, and O’Donoghue stepped up to the challenge, competing against Under-19 junior women.
She was, however, placed first in the Under-16 category.
“I am so glad that Rachel was able to race in the end, perform well and get to meet some of Europe’s top junior ladies, whom she will compete against next weekend in Latvia. Possibly, one or two may even be competing at YOG26 (Youth Olympic Games),” said national coach Pamela Fulton.
O’Donoghue shifts her focus to her next official race, the Europe Triathlon Junior Cup in Jurmala, Latvia, this weekend.
“Rachel is in good spirits and is excited for this coming weekend’s competition in Latvia.”
