Individuals and organisations from the local sports scene were honoured during a series of Cathaoirleach Receptions hosted by Limerick City and County Council last Friday.
A Clay Pigeon Shooting star, world champion paracyclist, an endurance swimmer and a Kung Fu champion all received a joint Reception at the Council Offices in Dooradoyle as well as the players from the Limerick Minor Hurling Team.
“As Cathaoirleach, it was my great honour to gather to celebrate and acknowledge the achievements of those who have put Limerick on the sporting map in 2014,” said Cllr Kevin Sheahan. “On behalf of the Council and the people of Limerick, I want to congratulate each and every one of you once again on your achievements and continued representation of Limerick at national and international level.”
18-year-old Rathkeale native, Ian O’Sullivan was named world champion in October after he beat competitors from 34 countries to win the Junior Men’s Trap event at the International Shooting Sport Federation (ISSF) World Championships in Granada.
Eoghan Clifford captured two world titles at the UCI paracycling Road Race World Championships and UCI Timetrial World Championships in Greenville, South Carolina, USA, during August. The NUI Galway lecturer in civil engineering was competing in his first major championships.
Newcastle West's Thomas Goulding meanwhile, swam himself into the record books on July 3rd when he completed an arduous solo swim across the English Channel. Tom achieved his long-held dream of swimming one of the world’s 'Seven Big Swims' on his first attempt.
Adrian Kearns from Norwood Park, who claimed four gold medals and a silver at the Kung Fu world championships in Hong Kong was also honoured. This is the most ever by an Irishman at such an event which is the highest level that Kung Fu artists can compete at.
The Limerick Minor Hurling Team was honoured in in recognition of its achievement of retaining the Munster Minor Championship title.