John Kelly sets new Ulster record to finish third in Sweden

John Kelly set new Ulster indoor shot put record in Sweden on Monday afternoon.

The Finn Valley AC man threw a best of 18.46m to finish third in an open competition in Växjö.

Kelly threw beyond 18m four times and his new personal best of 18.46m represents new records at Ulster, Donegal and club levels. Indeed, Kelly's throw is the second furthest ever in the event by an Irishman.

Marcus Thomsen from Norway with a 20.78m throw, while Victor Gandenkrans of Sweden was second, throwing a best of 18.61.

Mark English eases through the gears to defend Indoor 800m crown

The Finn Valley AC man surged away on the final lap, while Conall Mahon of Tir Chonaill AC sets new Donegal indoor record for triple jump bronze

St Johnston native Kelly, who had been out of action for 18 months due to an injury until his recent return, is based in Sweden, where he is coached by Vésteinn Hafsteinsson.

Later this week, Kelly departs for Leiria, Portugal ahead of the European Throws Cup from March 12-13.

His younger brother James, the silver medalist at the Irish Indoor Championships at the weekend, will also compete in Portugal in the under-23 shot put.