Athboy Paralympian wins three golds at Czech Championships

Hannah McNamara

Athboy Paralympian, Jack O'Connor will return to Ireland with four medals from the Czech Open Championships 2023.

The 15-year-old athlete placed first in each of the Junior Competitions which were the shot putt, discus and javelin, claiming three gold medals.

Jack also entered some Senior Competitions for experience where he placed in fantastic positions.

In the Senior Discus he placed third, while also setting a new personal best. His previous best being 13.85m, this was bested by almost a full meter, landing at 14.80m to claim bronze.

He also placed 4th in the Javelin and 5th in the shot putt.

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

After qualifying to represent Ireland with his latest personal bests, he travelled to Czech Republic with Team Ireland to participate in the Championships.

Jack's throw frame is crucial in this competition and there are very strict guidelines on size, shape and specifications. With the help of local businesses, Jack's throw frame was put together.

Tara stainless steel in Bohermeen welded the aluminium frame so it didn't exceed the 20kg weight limit for the plane. Grips were also added in the Meath colours sponsored by Padraig McElhinney’s Men’s Shop, Athboy. The foam cushion that was added to the frame was sponsored by Seamus Murphy, Athboy Furniture.

The design was invented by Jack's dad Ronan and constructed by Gretta Cassidy.

Writing on its Facebook page the Fr Murphy Athletics Club thanked all those who helped with the construction, adding: "It really does take a village!"

Jack's success reflects the dedicated and determined ten years of training with legendary thrower Paddy Hanily at Fr Murphy's AC. Between gym training and throwing, Jack is coached four days a week.

Fr Murphy congratulated Jack on his wonderful achievement: "A lot more to come from this amazing athlete. A massive congrats from all at the club and well done to parents Ronan and Aisling!"

Jack's family paid tribute to all those involved in making this trip possible for Jack:

"We want to thank all those at Fr Murphy's and the Committee especially those who have also helped with Jack's training such as Sarah Ledwidge, Suzanne Ledwidge and Liam Cunningham.

"Huge credit must go to trainer Paddy Hanily who has been training him for the last ten years.

"Thanks also to Pat Furlong, Jean O'Sullivan and John McCarthy, the heads of the Irish Team.

"Lastly we want to thank Athboy Credit Union, Nick Murphy and the Bord of Management."

This coming weekend Jack will take part in the Southern Competitions in Templemore, Co Tipperary.

His long term goal is to compete in the Paralympics 2028.