Council Chair hosts reception to celebrate outstanding achievements of local boxer, Riona Devine

Chair of Fermanagh and Omagh District Council, Councillor Debbie Coyle, hosted a reception at the Grange, Omagh, to recognise and celebrate the outstanding achievements of local boxer, Riona Devine. The event honoured Riona’s exceptional success in the sport and her role as an inspiring young ambassador for the district.

Speaking at the reception the Chair said:

”Good evening everyone,

As Chair of Fermanagh and Omagh District Council, I am delighted to welcome you all here this evening as we come together to recognise and celebrate the outstanding achievements of one of our district’s exceptional young sportspeople, Riona Devine.

It is a privilege to host this reception in honour of Riona, whose dedication, determination and success in boxing have brought great pride to her family, Dukes Boxing Gym, and the wider Fermanagh and Omagh District.

At just 17 years of age, Riona has already built an impressive sporting career. Four years ago, she began training with Dukes Boxing Gym, and in a relatively short space of time she has established herself as one of the most accomplished young boxers in the country.

Her list of achievements is remarkable. Riona is a multiple Tyrone/Fermanagh Champion, a multiple Mid Ulster Champion, a Donegal Champion, and a seven-time Ulster Champion. She has won a National Silver Medal, claimed the title of All-Ireland Champion, and added a Box Cup Championship to her growing collection of honours.

She has also made history as the first Tyrone boxer to win an Armagh/Down Championship title – a landmark achievement that reflects not only her talent but also her determination to break new ground.

Riona’s performances have earned her selection to the Ulster High Performance Team, where she has proudly represented Ulster in international competition, returning home with a silver medal. She is currently in training camp as she prepares to represent both her county and Dukes Boxing Gym at the Riveria Box Cup this August.

These achievements are the result of countless hours of training, discipline and perseverance. Success at this level does not happen overnight, and Riona’s commitment to her sport is an example of what can be achieved through hard work and determination.

While thisevening is about celebrating Riona, it is also fitting to acknowledge those who have supported her along the way. Parents, family members, coaches, teammates and everyone at Dukes Boxing Gym have all played an important role in helping her develop both as an athlete and as a young person. Their encouragement and dedication have undoubtedly contributed to the success we celebrate this evening.

Riona is an excellent ambassador for our district. She embodies the qualities that sport teaches – respect, resilience, discipline and teamwork and serves as a role model for other young people who aspire to achieve their own goals.

On behalf of Fermanagh and Omagh District Council, I congratulate Riona on all that she has accomplished. Your achievements have made your family, your club and your community immensely proud, and they have brought great credit to our district.

We wish you every success as you prepare to compete at the Riveria Box Cup and in the exciting opportunities that lie ahead. We have every confidence that this is only the beginning of what promises to be a long and successful boxing career.

Congratulations once again, Riona, and thank you all for joining us this evening.