SPORTS AWARDS: School Sporting Performance - Roseanna McGuckian (athletics)

Roseanna McGuckian risked the wrath of her principal and teachers when she admitted that athletics takes precedence over her education.
Roseanna McGuckian receives the School Sporting Performance award from Ronan McCann of sponsors Black Advertising. INBT06-217ACRoseanna McGuckian receives the School Sporting Performance award from Ronan McCann of sponsors Black Advertising. INBT06-217AC
Roseanna McGuckian receives the School Sporting Performance award from Ronan McCann of sponsors Black Advertising. INBT06-217AC

The 16-year-old’s outstanding performances both for Ballymena Academy and in the colours of Ulster and Northern Ireland Schools saw her land the School Sporting Performance award.

In all these competitions, she was competing in the intermediate age group, running against girls a year older than her.

Despite that, she was 200 metres and 300 metres champion at district, Ulster and Irish championship level, while she also won four gold medals while competing for Ulster in an inter-provincial event.

Roseanna was also selected for the Northern Ireland Schools team for the UK School Games, where she finished third in the 300 metres.

“For me, athletics always comes first before school,” said Roseanna.

“To become a professional athlete would be my main aim but that is difficult because of funding.

“I want to go to university and carry on with athletics while I’m there,” added Roseanna.

Also short-listed: Josh McIlroy (rugby/athletics); Ballymena Academy junior team (showjumping).