GALWAY athlete Matthew Newell, well known too in the showring, has edged closer to a world championship call-up after his latest podium finish.

Matthew, who competes in racewalking, competed in last year’s European Youth Olympics in North Macedonia, where he finished fourth. 2026 looks set to be even busier for the Claregalway student.

“It was a very memorable season, setting numerous national records and competing at the European Racewalking Team Championships in the Czechia. It’s been a busy few weeks. In February, I was in Albufeira, warm weather training with the Performance Pathway Squad - Athletics Ireland’s high-performance programme for young elite athletes.”

It paid off last weekend when he competed in Slovakia in the hopes of qualifying for the World Racewalking Team Championships, which will take place next month in Brasilia.

“Thankfully, I finished third in the race and also achieved the qualifying standard for Brasilia, setting a personal best in the process. I now hope to be selected to travel with the Irish team to Brazil.”

He’ll then combine athletics with laps around the showring and, along with the family’s young horses, has a nice small hunter to produce this summer.

“It’s a real family effort, but we all pull together to ensure both success and enjoyment in the equestrian and athletics spheres. I’m very thankful to my parents, Anne Marie, and Brendan, who do so much for me to support me on my journey.”