Council Chair hosts reception to celebrate remarkable athletic achievements

Chair of Fermanagh and Omagh District Council, Cllr Barry McElduff, recently hosted a reception at The Grange, Omagh to recognise the outstanding recent athletics achievements of Orla Colton; Mark Colton; Tina Gallagher; Leona Garrity; Natalie Laverty; Andrew McFarland; Judith McGirr; Trevor McGlynn; David Miller; and Denise Toner.

Speaking at the event the Chair said;

”As Chair of Fermanagh and Omagh District Council, I am delighted to welcome you all here to the Grange Omagh, for this reception to celebrate remarkable athletic achievements. This event is an opportunity for us to shine a light on you, and your incredible series of accomplishments that showcase not only elite athletic talent, but also dedication and teamwork in representing both your club and country.

It is my great pleasure to begin this celebration by recognising the incredible success of Leona Garrity. Competing as part of the Ireland team, Leona was vital in breaking the World Record in the 4×400 metre relay, an achievement that places her firmly on the world stage. She followed this remarkable performance by claiming All-Ireland Gold in the 200 metres, along with a Silver medal in the 60 metres, demonstrating her adaptability and sporting excellence.

Equally deserving of commendation is Leona’s sister, Judith McGirr, who also played a vital role on the Irish team that broke the 4×400 metre World Record. Judith went on to secure All-Ireland Gold in the 400 metres, an amazing individual achievement that highlights her focus and resilience at the highest level of competition.

Moreover, we take this opportunity to recognise Denise Toner, who, alongside Leona and Judith, surpassed the existing world record in the 4×400 metres, an outstanding and truly unforgettable achievement. Denise’s accomplishments did not end there; she has also recently enjoyed success in Poland, where she secured a bronze medal in the W45 800m while recording a season’s best performance.

We also celebrate the achievements of Tina Gallagher, whose performances in the Masters 60 category were nothing short of exceptional. Tina broke the World Record in the 4×400 metre relay, while also capturing All-Ireland Gold in the 60 metre hurdles and the High Jump, an extraordinary reflection of her athletic expertise and exemplary determination.

March saw further success on the national stage with outstanding team performances. Leona Garrity, Judith McGirr, Orla Colton, and Natalie Laverty who combined their talents to win the Women’s All-Ireland 4×200 metre relay final, representing Sprint Academy Ireland and Strabane AC with distinction.

The men matched this success in similarly impressive fashion. David Miller, Andrew McFarland, Trevor McGlynn, and Mark Colton claimed victory in the Men’s All-Ireland 4×200 metre relay final. Individually, David Miller went on to take Gold in the 60 metre sprint, with Andrew McFarland securing an incredible third place, rounding off an outstanding championship performance for the team.

Before closing, I would also like to acknowledge the historic achievement of Mark and Orla, who not only claimed victory at the All-Ireland Relay Championships, but did so by making history as the first husband and wife to win gold as members of the men’s and women’s teams. Congratulations on this notable achievement.

Although Andrew, Natalie and Denise are unable to attend today’s event, we extend our warmest congratulations on their well-earned accolades.

On behalf of Fermanagh and Omagh District Council, I wish to extend my sincere congratulations on your outstanding achievements. I would also like to acknowledge the invaluable contribution of your coaches and supporters, whose dedication and commitment have played a vital role in helping you on this journey.

These exceptional accomplishments demand an extraordinary investment of time, unwavering dedication, and rigorous preparation. We are delighted to recognise and commend you for these remarkable successes, which have undoubtedly inspired the next generation of athletes.”