In a special homecoming event organised by Ards and North Down Council, two Olympic gold medallists from Northern Ireland, Rhys McClenaghan and Jack McMillan, hailed the unique camaraderie between athletes. Even though they represented different countries, they believe it brings them together rather than pulls them apart.
McClenaghan, who bagged gold in the pommel horse event for Team Ireland at the Paris Olympics, and McMillan, who clinched gold in the men’s relay swimming event for Team GB, shared sentiments of mutual support and pride in their accomplishments.
Both athletes were among the ten sporting talents from Ards and North Down borough who participated in the summer’s Olympic Games for either Team Ireland or Team GB. Their bond, they say, is profound despite the different flags they compete under.
McClenaghan said, “We all come from the same origins. The same pools where I used to train as a kid were where Jack trained too. Our narratives are strikingly similar. The country you represent doesn’t really matter, because we’re all backing each other up in any way possible.”
McClenaghan takes great pride in the prosperity coming out of Northern Ireland, especially from the Ards and North Down borough, and hopes everyone can draw some inspiration from it and focus even more on the triumph than the nationality of the athlete.
Jack McMillan agrees, stating, “Despite representing two separate countries, we unite as Northern Ireland. The splendid performance of Northern Ireland in the games was truly special. It further strengthens our bond and hopefully motivates the upcoming athletes of the nation.”
Regardless of whether you’re playing for Great Britain or Ireland, the reality is we’re united as one and then we shift focus purely on the sport. It’s marvellous for both the sport and our nation,” comments Rhys McClenaghan, adding, “Times are modernising.”
Daniel Wiffen, the gold and bronze medallist swimmer, has already experienced a warm welcome home event in Magheralin on Tuesday. The prestigious Stormont Communities Minister, Gordon Lyons, announced that official festivities will be organised later this year, honouring Northern Ireland’s victory at the Olympics.
The event, accessible to all, will additionally pay tribute to athletes participating in the upcoming Paralympic Games, set to commence in Paris later this month. “Our celebration will not only be for the medal winners but also for every participant, as simply taking part is a commendable feat,” he stated. – PA