GOING FOR GOLD

TEENAGE swimming sensation Mona McSharry was given a hero’s welcome when she returned to Grange last night, carrying three European medals following her stellar performance at the European Junior Swimming Championships in Israel. One of the organisers of the homecoming, Donal Gilroy, said it was a proud moment for North Sligo.

“We were busy yesterday getting the bunting ready and posters printed to welcome Mona back home. All the sporting organisations in the community came together to organise the homecoming. I’m chairman of the Cliffoney/Grange Community Games and the local GAA, soccer, athletics, Sports Complex and Tri club were involved too.

“Mona has been involved in all of these clubs and we are so, so proud of her. The whole area is delighted and last year when she won, her mum said it all started with the Community Games so we should be milking it! Having three athletes from the area (in- cluding Mona, runner Christopher O’Donnell and footballer Seamas Keogh) come through at international level is something else for Grange. The reaction has been huge to Mona’s success on social media too.”

At yesterday’s meeting of Sligo County Council, councillors agreed to host a Civic Reception for the swimmer. Cathaoirleach of Sligo County Council Cllr Seamus Kilgannon led tributes to her. “This is a great achievement for Mona and her parents who made many early morning and late evening trips to Ballyshannon swimming pool.” Cllr Marie Casserly said Mona is a role model for everyone: “The entire county and particularly North Sligo are so proud of Mona and her achievements. She has worked so hard over the years to get to this standard of competition.” Cllr Hubert Keaney added Mona was an inspiration to all: “Mona is a outstanding ambassador for our region, her achievements to date are remarkable and offer great hope for her future as a outstanding sportsperson.” SEE SPORT.