It's a Gold rush for Athboy Paralympian

Athboy Paralympian Jack O'Connor swept the boards at the DSE National Games in the UK at the weekend scooping three gold medals for Ireland.

Jack (14) from Frayne, Athboy, won gold medals in discus, shot putt and javelin at under-16 level, beating off competition from athletes representing England, Scotland and Wales to take top honours in the three events.

Talented Jack, who has cerebral palsy, is a member of the local Fr Murphy Athletic Club and attends Athboy Community School.

He travelled to Coventry with his proud parents Ronan and Aisling and was thrilled to return home with his haul of three gold medals for Ireland.

"We are all so proud of Jack," said dad Ronan. "Huge credit must go to the Fr Murphy Club and Jack's trainer Paddy Hanily who has been training him for the last nine years. Also to Sarah Ledwidge, another of his coaches at the club. Thanks also to Pat Furlong the Irish team manager."

Jack (pictured right), was one of eight athletes from Ireland who travelled to Coventry for the DSE National Games at the weekend.

Writing on its facebook page the Fr Murphy Club congratulated Jack on his wonderful achievement:" Jack we are so proud of all your achievements and look forward to seeing where your next competition brings you!"

The club also gave a shout out to "Fr Murphy Juvenile coach Paddy Hanily, Ireland coach Pat Furlong and Jack's parents Aisling and Ronan who have been supporting & encouraging this fantastic young man in his competitive endeavours."