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Thomas Barr after winning the 4x 400m relay in Rome. Sam Barnes/SPORTSFILE

Three-time Olympian Thomas Barr announces retirement

Irish International 400m hurdler athlete hangs up his spikes.

THREE TIME OLYMPIAN, and European medallist Thomas Barr, has today announced his retirement from competitive athletics.

The Waterford native is regarded as one of the finest sprinters Ireland has ever produced. He achieved a historic bronze medal at the 2018 European Athletics Championships, becoming the first Irish male sprinter to win an outdoor European medal in the 84-year history of the event.

In 2016, Barr captivated the nation with his remarkable performance in the 400-meter hurdles Olympic final, finishing fourth in a blistering 47.97 seconds, setting a new Irish record that still stands today. He was also the University World Champion in 2015 and holds multiple Irish records in the 400m hurdles, including Senior, U23, and U20 categories. Over his career, he has won 12 national titles in the 400m hurdles.

 In 2024, his final year competing as an international athlete, Thomas enjoyed groundbreaking success as part of the mixed 4x400m relay team who became European Champions in Rome and secured a bronze medal at the World Relay Championships.

A statement from Barr said, “I am grateful to all the people who have been part of my journey, especially my parents, for their support and my coaches, Drew and Hayley, who were central to my athletics performances.

“I have loved the sport from the day I joined Ferrybank AC as a young boy. I have cherished every moment, from winning national championships to breaking Irish records and representing my country on the European and World stage.

“I will never forget finishing fourth in the Rio Olympic Games and winning bronze at the European Championships in the 400m Hurdles.”

He added, “My final year gave me some magical moments; being on the mixed relay team that won a World medal and secured victory at the European Championships was incredible.

“I am grateful to Athletics Ireland and the team management for their support throughout my career. A big thank to you to the athletics community and the public who have cheered me on in both the good and bad times.

“As I close this chapter, I look forward to what the future holds and hope to stay connected to the sport that has shaped my life.”

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5 Comments
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    Mute Cathal Keeshan
    Favourite Cathal Keeshan
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    Dec 11th 2021, 7:24 AM

    Great player, sounds an even greater person. Enjoy your retirement Nigel.

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    Mute Derek McGarry
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    Dec 11th 2021, 7:42 AM

    What an ambassador for rugby, sport and Ireland north and south. His story is remarkable and a reminder to the rest of us to get up, get on and make the most of our life, no matter how challenging. Easier said than done.

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    Mute Sea__Point
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    Dec 11th 2021, 7:42 AM

    Fabulous wing forward, himself Matthew and Spillane were as good a combo as you could get, great balance of power and size and Carr was as good a link player as he was a nuisance at the breakdown. Should have had 40 Caps easily, back in the days when there were for fewer tests…

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    Mute Brian Waldron
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    Dec 11th 2021, 8:00 AM

    Played a match in Anglesea road versus Queens the morning of an international. Back row of Carr, Mathews and Jimmy Davidson (later to be Irish coach). Carr was absolutely brilliant and scored tries for fun but was also so quick and such a tough opponent. It was obvious he was going somewhere and so sad he didn’t get a chance to reach full potential.

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    Mute kieran horgan
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    Dec 11th 2021, 8:29 AM

    He’s still the man I judge any Irish 7 against, incredible player & reader of the game. Watch some of his videos and learn.

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    Mute Michael Murray
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    Dec 11th 2021, 8:38 AM

    @kieran horgan: ….yeah and it’s says volumes about him that he would fit seamlessly into any team in the modern game.

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    Mute Michael Murray
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    Dec 11th 2021, 12:50 PM

    @Michael Murray: …shades of Sam Cane, tidy, efficient and right place and right time.

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    Mute Terence Liston
    Favourite Terence Liston
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    Dec 11th 2021, 12:21 PM

    Often wondered how life went for Nigel and both relieved and happy to read that he is good shape, all things considered.
    Very few other players have ticked “ the greatest” box and lived on our memories after so few appearances as Nigel has. He was super fit, focused, athletic and an excellent ball carrier. He tormented the opposition and reduced their opportunities. There was a big gap in the Irish team without Nigel on the pitch.

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