The six medalists from Northern Ireland at the Paris 2024 Olympics have provided encouragement to emerging athletes through funding for new gear.
Each of them has chosen a club or organization to receive part of the £100,000 Olympic Medallist Fund provided by the Department for Communities.
Students at St Patrick's Grammar School in Armagh are now able to utilize a brand-new top-tier gymnasium, thanks to a contribution from Olympic swimmer Daniel Wyss.
Headmaster Dominic Clarke stated that the gym has significantly improved the school's physical education department and has been very popular with students.
"They talk about the 'amazing wow effect,' walking in and exclaiming 'what is this? This is incredible!'" he shared with Smart TecnoNews NI.
Before, the school only had one gym rack located in an area formerly used for squash courts. Therefore, the introduction of the new gym facility – featuring stationary bicycles, rowing machines, ski ergometers, and treadmills – represents a significant upgrade.
"We have utilized it extensively from 8 AM until long past school hours, and we are extremely grateful for both the facility and the generous contribution that was provided," Mr. Clarke stated.
'It's about giving back'
The Olympic Medallist Fund, distributed by Sport NI, was divided among Northern Ireland’s six medal winners, with amounts of £20,000 for a gold medal, £10,000 for silver, and £5,000 for bronze.
Posting on X, Wiffin, Who secured the gold and bronze medals? He stated that he felt proud to contribute £25,000 to "the institution that supported him from the very beginning."
The newly established gym aims to nurture the upcoming cohort of Armagh athletes. A legacy doesn’t merely revolve around winning medals; it’s also about contributing to future generations,” he stated.
Mr. Clarke mentioned that Wiffin is "highly supportive" of the school and has made several visits.
He walked into the school wearing his Olympic medals and would dedicate hours to talking with the children, fielding their questions, and taking photos with the awards.
He mentioned that they feel "great pride" in him and will "keep track of his achievements."
Six athletes from Northern Ireland, competing for both Team Ireland and Team GB, set a new record. seven medals including four gold medals at the Paris Olympics.
Competing for Team Ireland, Wiffin secured gold and bronze medals , Rhys McClenaghan won gold and Philip Doyle won silver .
For Team GB, Hannah Scott and Jack McMillan claimed the gold medal while Rebecca Shorten won silver.
Leaving a legacy
McClenaghan opted for his local gym, Origin Gymnastics in Newtownards, County Down, where he received £20,000 that was used to purchase new equipment.
He stated that the grant provided him with "the duty to create a lasting impact" following his Olympic victory.
"Hopefully, this will enable aspiring gymnasts to follow in my footsteps and provide them with opportunities and resources that were unavailable to me during my upbringing in this sport," he noted.
Luke Carson, CEO and founder of Origin Gymnastics, stated that McClenaghan's path serves as "an inspiration showcasing dedication, tenacity, and pursuing one’s aspirations."
I felt truly honored when he selected Origin to receive this funding.
In the meantime, McMillan selected Bangor Swimming Club to take advantage of advanced poolside training and competitive gear, while the Methodist College Belfast Rowing Club, backed by Shorten, has gained the ability to provide an elite young rower the opportunity to participate at an international level using a full-size single sculling vessel for competitions.
The Bann Rowing Club, with support from Scott, plans to incorporate carbon fibre single sculls and oars into their gear.
Doyle selected Belfast Boat Club, an organization that acquired new fitness gear and adaptive seating to enable individuals with disabilities to join in rowing activities.
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