Sports Minister congratulates Jason Smyth on sprint double

Sports Minister Carál Ní Chuilín has congratulated Jason Smyth on winning his second gold medal at the London 2012 Paralympic Games.

Jason won his second gold medal in 200m T13 race.

The Minister said: "Jason is one of the heroes of these games and is a outstanding athlete. Yet again he ran a terrific race and created another new world record. He truly deserves this second gold medal and the title of the 'fastest paralympian in history'. Watching athletes like Jason compete at these Games is an inspiration to us all."

The number of medals won by local athletes at the Paralympic Games now stands at seven.

Sports Minister congratulates Golden Paralympians

Sports Minister, Carál Ní Chuilín has paid tribute to Jason Smyth and Michael McKillop who have both won gold medals.

Speaking at the end of the day the Minister said: "The 1st September certainly lived up to its billing as a super Saturday! Jason Smyth's 100m final was stunning as he smashed his own World Record for the second time in 24 hours with a time of 10.46. Incredible! His gold is truly deserved. This was followed closely by another golden moment as Michael McKillop resolutely defended his six-year unbeaten record at Paralympic level in the 800m T37 and also beat the world record. In less than 48 hours, our golden paralympians, Bethany, Michael and Jason have proved they are the best - three golds is an astounding achievement.

"Once again I would like to congratulate all of the paralympians, both from Ireland and across the globe, taking part . As I have said before, it takes hard work and dedication to reach the Paralympic finals, we are all proud of you."

Ní Chuilín wishes local athletes good luck at the 2012 Olympic Games

The Sports Minister has wished good luck to the 20 athletes from the north of Ireland taking part in the London 2012 Olympic Games.


The Minister said: “After years of preparation, the Olympic Games are finally here. Being part of the greatest sporting event on earth is a once in a life-time opportunity for many of us to witness and participate in especially when it is all happening so close to home.”


Praising the local athletes who are part of Team Ireland and Team GB, the Minister said: “We have a total of 20 local athletes competing for either the Ireland team or British team over the next 16 days and seven paralympians getting ready for the Parlaympic Games later in August. This is the largest contingent we have ever fielded. I want to praise all the athletes from the island of Ireland for their excellence and endeavour.


“I am encouraged that this number includes 11 females which is our highest number of women yet. I hope this will be an inspiration to more of our women and girls to take up sport.”


Highlighting the number of first time competitors, Carál Ní Chuilín said: “This is the first time for a local person to compete in Olympic Table Tennis and Canoeing and we have our first local female competitor in Judo as well as our first male competitor in the Triathlon.


“These athletes have given their all to get to this level and we will be cheering them on as they take on the world’s best in table tennis, judo, hockey, rowing, cycling, canoeing, sailing, triathlon, swimming, boxing and eventing. I wish them all the very best of luck for each of their individual competitions – all of which we can watch on the Big Screens in Belfast and Derry.”


The 20 local athletes competing in the 2012 Olympic Games in London are:


Na Liu: Table Tennis
Iain Lewers: Hockey
Alan Campbell: Rowing
Richard Chambers: Rowing
Peter Chambers: Rowing
Wendy Houvenaghel: Cycling –Track
Michael Conlon: Boxing
Paddy Barnes: Boxing
Hannah Craig: Kayak – Ki Racing Event (Canoeing)
David McCann: Cycling – Road Race & Time Trial
Martyn Irvine: Cycling – Track: Omnium
Joesph Murphy: Equestrian Eventing
Lisa Kearney: Judo
James Espey: Laser Sailing
Ryan Seaton: Sailing 49er Class
Matt McGovern: Sailing 49er Class
Melanie Nocher : Swimming 200m Backstroke
Sycerika McMahon: Swimming 100m Breaststroke
Aileen Morrison: Triathlon
Gavin Noble: Triathlon
(Emma Higgins is one of four reserves selected for Team GB Women’s Football )


More information about the coverage of the games on the Big Screens in Belfast and Derry is available from the Derry City Council website and the Belfast City Council website.

Sports Minister attends spectacular opening of the Olympic Games

Sports Minister, Carál Ní Chuilín, has attended the Opening Ceremony for the London 2012 Olympic Games along with sports ministers from across the globe.

Speaking at the spectacular opening to the Games of the 30th Olympiad at the Olympic Stadium in Stratford in East London, the Minister said: “It is hard to believe after so much work on the part of the organisers and of the athletes who will now compete over the next couple of weeks, that the Olympic Games are finally here.

“There is no doubt that being part of the greatest sporting event on earth is a once in a life-time opportunity for many of us to witness and participate in especially when it is all happening so close to home.

“Tonight at the opening ceremony, nine of our local schools who have been involved in the London 2012 Education Programme ‘Get Set’ are forming a guard of honour for competing athletes as they leave the Olympic Village on their way to the Stadium. And two local choirs - Phil Kids and Jam - are part of the ‘Isles of Wonder’ film along with choirs from England, Scotland and Wales.

“The opening ceremony was also shown live on the Big Screens at Belfast City Hall and in Derry and during the Games all the action will be at available to view here as well.”

Praising the athletes from the north of Ireland who are part of Team Ireland and Team GB, the Minister said: “We have 20 local sportsmen and women competing for either the Ireland team or British team over the next 16 days. Each of these athletes has given their all to get to this level and we will be cheering them on as they take on the world’s best in table tennis, judo, hockey, rowing, cycling, canoeing, sailing, triathlon, swimming, boxing and eventing. I wish all the very best of luck to all of the athletes from the island of Ireland in their individual events.”

Recognising the wide-range of Irish involvement in preparation for the Games, including the all-Ireland Olympic Torch Relay, the Minister said: “An event of this size and scale could not happen without volunteers. It comes off the back of a hugely successful and inclusive all-Ireland Torch Relay. Almost 500 local games makers are playing their part in ensuring a smooth running and successful Olympic and Paralympic Games. This is a fantastic opportunity for all of them and their experience in London will be invaluable for next year’s City of Culture and the World Police and Fire Games.

“I hope everyone enjoys the opening ceremony and the feast of sport to come over the next couple of weeks.”

Nine local schools formed a Guard of Honour for teams of athletes en route to Olympic Park for the Opening Ceremony. They were:

• Sri Lanka - St Patrick’s and St Brigid’s Primary School, Ballycastle;
• Suriname - St Catherine’s College, Armagh;
• Swaziland - Ballee Community High School, Ballymena;
• Sweden - Christ the Redeemer Primary School, Belfast;
• Philippines - Dundonald Primary School;
• Jordan - Belfast Boy’s Middle School;
• Jordan - Oakgrove Integrated College, Derry;
• Kuwait/Saudi Arabia - Park Hall integrated College, Antrim; and
• Philippines - Orangefield High School, Belfast.

Ní Chuilín pays tribute to the Torchbearers

Sports Minister Carál Ní Chuilín has welcomed the third day of the Olympic Torch Relay in the north.


Speaking on the morning the Torch set off on its journey to Newry, the Minister said: "The planning of the all-Ireland Torch Relay has been years in the preparation, with many people and communities coming together to plan details such as the route, the Torchbearers and the celebrations. Last night's event in Derry showcased a vibrant, youthful city coming together to celebrate in the Olympic spirit.


"Now it is the turn of cities, towns and villages such as Fivemiletown, Caledon, Armagh, Banbridge and Newry to join in with one of the greatest global sporting occasions.


"Many of the Torchbearers have inspirational stories to tell. Amongst them are the oldest Torchbearer here, Bob Lingwood, and the youngest - Hannah Rainey. Bob, who will be carrying the Torch in Omagh, was nominated for his work in his local community. Hannah, who will be in Lisburn, was nominated for her fundraising and dedication. I wish them both well, along with the hundreds of other people who are carrying the Flame on its journey.


"The Olympic Games are about celebrating both sport and culture and perhaps becoming involved in something you might not have been before. This is reflected in the many events and activities taking place along the route. For example, there are the Olympic Challenge sports taster sessions in Armagh; and in Portadown the five sports hubs with athletics, climbing walls, street entertainment and Samba bands, as well as a balloon release by young people involved in Craigavon Intercultural Programme's Inspire project. I am sure the Olympic Games and the all-Ireland Torch Relay will inspire people to become involved in sport or their local communities long after London 2012 has finished.


"Tonight will see the Torch Relay finish in Newry, where I am sure there is still much celebrating to be done."


For information on the Torch route please visit www.london2012.com/torch-relay/route

All-Ireland Olympic Torch relay crosses Derry Peace Bridge

Sports Minister Carál Ní Chuilín has joined thousands of local people to welcome the all-Ireland Olympic Torch relay across the Peace Bridge in Derry.


The Minister said: “It has been another day of memorable moments in the all-Ireland Olympic Torch relay as the flame travels west of the Bann. Its journey across the Peace Bridge saw the Torch unify both banks of the city and all sections of the community together in celebration. The Torch was greeted by a parade which recognised local people's commitment to the development of youth through sporting pursuits. The colourful flag procession has promoted the Olympic message of ‘peace, unity and friendship’ to a global audience.


“Derry will today again show the world an exciting preview of its 2013 City of Culture offering. As the Olympic Cauldron is lit during a celebration concert, I know the city will light up the Olympic spirit for everyone."

Ní Chuilín cheers on Olympic Torch on second leg of its journey

Sports Minister Carál Ní Chuilín has applauded the Olympic Torch on the second day of its journey here.


Speaking after the all-Ireland Torch Relay left Portrush the Minister said: "I am sure all those who attended last night's evening celebration in Portrush had a great time. This is what the all-Ireland Torch Relay really represents - people coming together to share in the Olympic experience and be part of the Olympic spirit. It is a celebration of sport, arts and culture. The Torch will pass close by many of our homes and work places and I hope people will come out to cheer on the Torchbearers. Many of these people are members of the local community, people we know who have done extraordinary things - be this in their sporting field or through facing challenging situations.


"The second leg on the Torch Relay will take in some stunning scenery, and I know there are also a number of exciting events and festivities to help it along its way. The event at Downhill Beach as archers send flaming arrows into the sea promises to be spectacular. I am sure the Olympic flame and Torchbearers will be cheered on as they make their way through places such as Castlerock, Ballykelly and Greysteel.


"This is an opportunity to share with a global audience our towns, villages and cities. The Celtic Fusion Concert at the Ebrington site and Olympic carnival parade, which are part of one of our local Inspire projects, will be a perfect opportunity to showcase what Derry has to offer for the 2013 City of Culture, as well as the exciting Evening Celebration Concert. I am sure many will watch the Games unfold at the Live Sites or Big Screens in Belfast and Derry."

Sports Minister welcomes Olympic Torch on first day

Sports Minister Carál Ní Chuilín has welcomed the Olympic Torch on its first full day in the north.

The all-Ireland Torch Relay made an early start this morning, leaving the iconic Titanic Building just after 6am.

Speaking after the Torch left Belfast, the Minister said; "This is just the start of the Torch's exciting journey here.  The all-Ireland Torch Relay is a celebration of sport, culture and our local heroes. This really is our opportunity to shine and showcase our cities, beautiful scenery and most of all the people who live here.

"Each Torchbearer has their own unique story, be they an elite sportsperson, someone who has overcome adversity, or a person who makes a difference to their community. 

"Karen Marshall our first Torchbearer is an amazing example. Karen has lived with Crohn's disease for the last 14 years but she doesn't let it slow her down.  She works full time with marginalised young people and in her free time she volunteers for her local church, for REACT (Reconciliation Education and Community Training) and is a member of the local District Policing Partnership.  She is a real inspiration to the local people of Tynan in County Armagh and today is an inspiration to all becoming the first torchbearer here.  

Sports Minister Carál Ní Chuilín pictured with local woman Karen Marshall, the First Torch bearer of the all-Ireland Torch Relay at Titanic Belfast this morning

"Today will see the Torch travel from Belfast along the route to Portrush, taking in places such as Glenariff, Ballycastle, Ballycastle and Bushmills. It will also be visiting the village of Dervock - home of Kennedy Kane McArthur, a gold medal Olympian. I hope as many as possible take the opportunity to come out and cheer on the Torchbearers as they take part in what is sure to be a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. 

"I know there are a number of exciting events and activities planned as the Torch makes its way through our towns and villages. For example, there is a visit to Stormont with activities from some of our local Inspire projects, the unique spectacle of local rowing clubs rowing alongside the Relay as it makes its way along the coastline at Glynn, an afternoon of family fun at Carnfunnock Country Park in Larne, and a balloon release by local schoolchildren in Castlereagh. With all the events it will be a truly memorable day."

 For information on the Torch route please visit www.london2012.com/torch-relay/route

For information on local events please contact your local Council area.

The family event at Carnfunnock Country Park will include a Mount Olympus maze; storytelling; arts and crafts; live music; sports tasters from archery to Zumba; BMX stunt show; and tasters in break dancing, hip hop and parkour. It is part of the Larne Alive Ignite the Light Festival which was awarded the London 2012 Inspire mark. For more information see http://www.larne.gov.uk/template1.asp?pid=1720&parent=1719&area=5&aName=Business&text=1

The Inspire programme is a participation initiative spanning England, Scotland, Wales and the North of Ireland. It formally recognises exceptional non-commercial projects which have been inspired by the 2012 Games. For further information, see http://www.dcalni.gov.uk/index/games_legacy/inspire_programme.htm or contact Julie.jamison@dcalni.gov.uk

Robinson and McGuinness welcome Olympic Flame to Belfast

First Minister the Rt. Hon. Peter D. Robinson MLA and deputy First Minister Martin McGuinness MP, MLA were at Belfast City Airport today to welcome the arrival of the Olympic flame.

Also on hand to greet the flame was local Olympian Dame Mary Peters.



Beth Stafford, Victoria Park PS, First Minister Peter Robinson, Olympian Dame Mary Peters, deputy First Minister Martin McGuinness and Louis Cannet from St Josephs PS



Speaking at a reception to mark the arrival of the flame to Northern Ireland, First Minister, Peter Robinson said: “We are privileged to welcome the flame to Northern Ireland and to witness its journey over the next five days, during which it will be carried by 400 torchbearers through cities, towns and villages, past many of our iconic landmarks, creating what promises to be a once in a lifetime spectacle for all to see.

“2012 is a great year for Northern Ireland. It really is our time and our place. Many events are taking place here this year, such as the Irish Open and along with the spectacular interest in the Titanic centenary, these star attractions are boosting the Executive’s drive to showcase all that is great about Northern Ireland in the run-up to Londonderry’s launch as the first UK City of Culture and our hosting of the World Police and Fire Games in 2013."

Deputy First Minister, Martin McGuinness said: “The Olympic and Paralympic Games are at the heart of sporting excellence, but the Games are also about much more than sport. The Olympic Torch relay is a visible demonstration of this.

"The all Ireland torch relay epitomises the values and spirit of the Olympics. The Olympics are a celebration of sport, culture and local heroes. It is great that we are playing our part in this celebration.

“However, underpinning the Games is a set of important values: respect, excellence and friendship. Our torchbearers are inspirational people who make a real difference to people and the communities around them.”

Excitement growing around 2012 Games as torchbearers and street route revealed

Sports Minister Carál Ní Chuilín has given details of the street routes and the inspirational torchbearers who will carry the Olympic Flame when it visits Ireland in June.

 


The Olympic Torch relay begins in East Belfast on Sunday the 3 June and over the course of the relay it will be within ten miles of 95% of the local population.



Speaking at Stormont, which is part of the torch route, Sports Minister, Carál Ni Chuilín said: "This is a real opportunity for the entire island to shine as the torch visits between 3 June and 7 June. The relay will showcase and celebrate our torchbearers who are inspirational people who do so much for their local communities.


"As the torch journeys across the country, from Belfast to Derry to Aughnacloy, Banbridge and Larne over the four day celebration, the eyes of the world will be on our beautiful landscape and iconic buildings and our amazing cultural and sporting achievements.



"Excitement is growing now that local people can begin to plan where the torchbearers will be carrying the torch in their areas and plan to celebrate the arrival in their communities."



The torch will visit Dublin on Wednesday 6 June 2012. 

Minister of State for Tourism and Sport, Michael Ring said: "The visit of the Olympic Flame in June will be a wonderful opportunity for Ireland to be even more closely involved with the 2012 London Olympic Games and for Irish people to be part of the biggest sporting event in the world."


The Minister added "Tourism also has the opportunity to benefit from the international media focus on the island of Ireland as the Olympic Torch Relay comes here for the first time and I know the tourism agencies will be doing everything they can to maximise the benefits."

More information about the streets through which the Torchbearers will carry the Olympic Flame is available from the Olympic Torch Relay - London2012 website 

The Torchbearers announced today include those that were successful through the public nomination processes run by LOCOG and the Presenting Partners, Coca Cola, Lloyds TSB and Samsung. Each Torchbearer has also had confirmed the details of what day and in which community in the North they will be carrying the Flame. LOCOG has endeavoured to slot Torchbearers within an hour of their nomination address so family and friends can cheer them on. 

The Torchbearers are listed by the community they are carrying the Olympic Flame in at Olympic Torch Relay - London2012 website together with a selection of their inspiring stories. The remaining Torchbearers will be confirmed over the coming months.



An average of 115 Torchbearers a day will carry the Olympic Flame en route to the Olympic Stadium on 27 July 2012.



The overnight stops and evening celebrations in the North of Ireland leg of the Olympic Torch Relay are Newry, Derry, Portrush and Belfast. These are taking place between the 3rd and 7th of June 2012. Further information about celebrations and is available from Local District Councils.