IRELAND’S 4x400m mixed relay team failed to reach the final on a disappointing opening day on the track.
That saw Chris O’Donnell, Sophie Becker, Thomas Barr and Sharlene Mawdsley line up for an event in which Ireland did reach the final three years ago and in which they were crowned European champions in June.
But that gold was achieved with Rhasidat Adeleke who, as expected, did not take part as the medal hope concentrates on the individual 400m event.
Chris O’Donnell opened up and passed the baton to Sophie Becker with Ireland lying fourth. Becker was the second fastest around the second leg but Ireland were fifth as she handed over to Thomas Barr.
Barr could not make up any ground on his lap and not could Sharlene Mawdsley despite her being the quickest of those on the home leg.
On Friday morning, Cathal Doyle, Luke McCann and Andrew Coscoran were all unable to book their passage to the semi-finals at the first attempt.
But they do get a second attempt in the newly-installed repechage heats which take place on Saturday evening.
There is no such second chance, however, for McCann’s sister Jodie who came through last in her 5000m heat.