The proud Fenor roots of Gold medallist Mark English

Waterford is rejoicing in the success of Gold Medallist Mark English after his triumphant win at the 800m final at the European Athletics Championships in Birmingham. English came home ahead of the rest in 1:45.26 with Croatia's Marino Bloudek second in 1:45.62 and Mohamed Attaqui of Spain third in 1:45.71. He stormed to the finish line, moving strongly from second place into first, confidently crossing the finish line claiming a gold medal for Ireland,  making it the first ever men's gold medal for an Irish athlete at the European Championships. Mark English and his Fenor Connections We love a Waterford connection, and when Teresa Murray contacted The Big Breakfast Blaa about Mark, we knew it was a story that had to be heard. She explained why the village of Fenor has a double reason to celebrate... Many years ago, Billy Burns and his brother Brendan Burns (Mark English's grandfather) were raised in Fenor before most of the family eventually moving away to England, as many did at that time. When Brendan moved back home to Ireland, he bought a pub in Portlaoise and had three daughters. The eldest of those daughters had a family of her own, one of whom is Mark's mother. Teresa praised the ambition, determination, and talent of Mark, speaking highly of the man he has grown up to be. A gorgeous national story with local Waterford roots... listen back to Teresa when she spoke on the show. Keep up to date on all the latest from The Big Breakfast Blaa with Ollie and Dymphna from 6am until 10am daily.  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.