Rapturous homecoming for Olympic heroes!

Local Olympic heroes received a rapturous homecoming reception at a celebration event at South Lake Leisure Centre, followed by a civic reception hosted by the Lord Mayor at the Civic Headquarters in Armagh.

Throughout the Olympic Games in Paris, people across the globe have enjoyed the spectacle of world-class performances and thrilling competitions.

Five local athletes played a pivotal role in making Paris 2024 Team Ireland’s most successful Games ever, including Daniel Wiffen (swimming), Philip Doyle (rowing), Susie Berry (equestrian) and Peter Brown and Kyle Marshall (hockey). Team Ireland finished in 19th position in the Olympic medal table with seven medals (four gold and three bronze).

Addressing the Olympians and invited guests at the Civic Reception, the Lord Mayor said:

“We are incredibly proud of our local athletes, and I am delighted to congratulate you in person! Your performances on the world stage have instilled tremendous pride across our borough and I have no doubt your achievements will ignite passion and motivation in others to do more great things in the future.

“This is a time to celebrate your dedication and commitment as elite-athletes who are true ambassadors of everything the Olympics stand for – striving for excellence, respect, friendships.”

Swimming sensation Daniel Wiffen stormed to a gold medal in the 800m freestyle, setting an Olympic record with a time of seven minutes 38.19 seconds! Daniel also took bronze in the 1500m freestyle final and finished a commendable 18^th position in his first ever 10km open-water race in the River Seine. Banbridge rower, Philip Doyle finished third place in the men’s rowing double sculls, with his partner Daire Lynch, securing bronze.

Over 400 people celebrated the Olympians’ return at a homecoming event at the South Lake Leisure Centre before they attended a civic reception hosted by the Lord Mayor of Armagh, Banbridge and Craigavon, Councillor Sarah Duffy at The Palace Demesne, Armagh.