Donegal clubs are getting ready to give a grand welcome to their Olympic stars this week.
Flags, banners and posters will be out in force for events marking the amazing achievements of the inspiring athletes in Paris.
Badminton ace Rachael Darragh will be the first celebrate a homecoming. Raphoe Badminton Club is hosting an event this Friday, August 16th, at 8pm. The club expressed immense pride in Rachael’s performance, saying: “Rachael played her heart out in Paris and as a community, town and club we are all so proud of everything she has achieved over the last three years to qualify for the Olympic Games.”
Finn Valley AC will honour 800m semi-finalist Mark English in Stranorlar on Saturday, August 17th, at 2pm. Everyone is invited to join in the celebrations for the talented athlete.
In total, six Donegal representatives contributed to Team Ireland’s historic Olympic campaign. An event for relay runner Kelly McGrory of Tir Chonaill AC has not yet been confirmed. Coaches Teresa McDaid, Daniel Magee, and Sharon Madigan played pivotal roles in the team’s success.
Donegal minister Charlie McConalogue said: “The Paris Olympics was a superb sporting showpiece which saw Ireland enjoy its most successful ever Olympics,” the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine commented.
“I’d like to commend everyone connected with Team Ireland, with a special mention to Donegal’s Mark English, Kelly McGrory, Rachel Darragh, Teresa McDaid, Daniel Magee and Sharon Madigan who were part of a wonderful and memorable story in the French capital. Their efforts have inspired our county and the nation, and the future is certainly bright. Roll on Los Angeles 2028,” Minister McConalogue added.
“I have no doubt that the heroics of Mark English and Kelly McGrory on the track, and Rachel Darragh on the badminton court, will inspire the next generation. Teresa McDaid did a superb job as manager of the Irish athletics team, as did Sharon Madigan, Head of Performance Nutrition at Sport Ireland Institute, and Daniel McGee, team leader of the Irish badminton team,” Minister McConalogue commented.
