Talented Oonagh is Oldham's golden girl

Proud Oonagh McManus shows off her medals

Talented young Greenfield athlete Oonagh McManus secured two brilliant medals at the European Biathle Championships in Athens, Greece.

Crompton House School pupil Oonagh, who is 12 and was competing in the under 15 age category, was representing Great Britain and won an individual bronze and team gold medals in the Championships showpiece.

Oonagh swims for Oldham Aquatics and Orca (Oldham, Royton and Crompton) swimming clubs.

The Biathle is a continuous run-swim-run event and consists of a 800m run directly followed by a 100m swim, and finishes with another 800m run.

It’s a sport that is part of UIPM World Pentathlon and Pentathlon GB.

Oonagh's proud dad Barry said: "In an incredibly exciting race Oonagh finished third, collecting individual bronze and team gold medals for Great Britain.

"Oonagh took the race out fast, separating the field with a solid first run.

"Entering the water in second place, a fantastic swim saw her come out of the sea holding her position going into the final run.

"The last 800 metres was a tense affair with the lead changing hands and Oonagh slipping into fourth place.

"One final push in the last 10 metres saw her draw level in a pack of four GB girls, who all crossed the line together.

"It was a nervous wait for the final results, but thankfully Oonagh was confirmed third with just over one second separating first and fourth place.

“Oonagh was dreaming of a top 10 finish, so to come away with a place on the podium and two medals is incredible.

"She’s obviously over the moon and we’re all incredibly proud of her achievement.

"It’s been an amazing experience and I’m sure this will stand her in good stead for the future.”

Do you have a story for us? Want to tell us about something going on in and around Oldham? Let us know by emailing news@oldham-chronicle.co.uk , calling our Oldham-based newsroom on 0161 633 2121 , tweeting us @oldhamchronicle or messaging us through our Facebook page. All contact will be treated in confidence.