Sports Minister applauds victorious sports stars

The Minister said: “This has been a tremendous weekend for golf, cycling and women’s boxing. Graeme McDowell has done us all proud again by winning the French Open in Paris – his third win this year.

“Dan Martin has claimed a first stage victory on the Tour de France, a terrific personal achievement and Ireland’s first Tour de France stage winner since 1992.

“And Belfast youth light-flyweight Kristina O’Hara was among five Irish gold medallists at the European Women’s Senior, Youth and Junior Championships in Hungary which also included Olympic Champion Katie Taylor. The Ireland squad also won three silver and seven bronze medals – a fantastic result for women’s boxing.

“Long hours of training as well as individual skill and endurance have contributed to each of these victories. You have shone on an international stage, competing with the best in the world and becoming heroes yet again in the process. Congratulations to all of you.”