Sports Minister Carál Ní Chuilín has praised the local athletes who took part in the Commonwealth Games in Glasgow.
Speaking at a reception in Stormont to mark their achievements, the Minister recalled the day the athletes left for the Games.
She said: “I remember being at the Queen’s Playing fields on a warm summer’s morning as the team began its journey Glasgow. On that day there was a nervous excitement and anticipation as they looked forward to the adventures ahead.”
“A few days later the Games started in spectacular fashion, with Lisa Kearney’s judo bronze.
“Bowlers Neil Booth, Neil Mulholland and Paul Daly took silver in the Men’s Triples, while Barbara Cameron and Mandy Cunningham won a bronze in the Ladies Pairs.
“Once again we excelled in the boxing ring, with gold for Paddy Barnes and Michael Conlan, silver for Joe Fitzpatrick and Michaela Walsh and bronze for Steven Donnelly, Sean Duffy, Connor Coyle, Sean McGlinchy and Alanna Audley-Murphy.
“Of course we salute the medallists, but every athlete who took part can be proud. Katie Kirk, who ran personal best in the 800m, the badminton players who had four top 16 places, and our netballers, who made the top eight and enjoyed every minute of the experience.
“Also David Calvert in his tenth Games, Hugh McCloskey coming close to a wrestling medal and our triathletes taking fitness to the limits. Throughout the team, across all the sports, there are inspirational stories and remarkable personal accomplishments.
“As sports Minister, I recognise the dedication and sacrifice it takes to get to the upper echelons of your chosen sport. Competing at a top-class level doesn’t happen by accident, it takes commitment and devotion, I applaud each and every one of you.
“I also want to pay tribute to those who make an important contribution off the field of play. Coaches, support staff and families have followed your journeys and nurtured your talent. They have shared in your success and supported you in disappointment.
“Tonight, as we pause to look back, there is a sense of pride and achievement,” added Minister Ní Chuilín.
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