The stunning island of Madeira was the setting for the 2020 European Masters Athletic Championships (non stadia) (EMACNS). The island has less than 100 covid cases thanks to strict controls. All visitors are tested at the airport and must quarantine until they receive their result, about 12 hours later.

Whilst athlete numbers were undoubtedly lower, most European countries were still represented.

Paul Smith from Donaghadee ran in the 10km road race on Thursday evening as part of the Great Britain and Northern Ireland 50-55 year old category team.  The 54 year old is a member of the Road Runners Club and Northern Ireland Masters.

The tough two lap course, lit by street lights, made it’s way along the picturesque harbour before going up hill and turning into the Funchal suburbs for a long section of running on less than ideal cobbled streets.

Paul was part of a three man team which also included Conrad Franks and Scott Armstrong from England. Their combined time of 2 hours and 2 seconds saw them finish third behind Spain and France and just ahead of Germany in fourth.