2023 World Games Daily Roundup: Sunday 18th June

Athletics

 

Team Ireland's athletes kicked off their first day on the athletics track with great enthusiasm. Leading the way was Katie Dillon, showcasing her skills in shot put. With focused determination, she took to the field and put on a great performance, with power and precision.  

 

Following closely was Grace Kavanagh, ready to make her mark in the 50m sprint. Bursting out of the starting blocks, she crossed the finish line in great spirit and with a time of 15.72 seconds.  

 

These impressive performances set the stage for an exciting journey ahead, as Team Ireland's athletes left an indelible impression on the track on their very first day. 

Badminton 

Badminton divisioning kicked off today with Claire O'Neill and Colm Monahan in great spirits. There were 10 courts in action simultaneously so it was a feast for the senses! 

Both played very well in their individual competitions and were delighted with their performances. The highlight of the day was the incredible support for both Claire and Colm from friends and family. Claire even got a surprise visit from her best friend Bronagh in Armagh. 

We look forward to more from Claire and Colm tomorrow!

 

Basketball 

Team Ireland basketball played a blinder today with a total of 5 divisioning matches. After a late one last night, it was incredible to watch their determination and physical fitness on the court.  

Family members in the stands were in full voice cheering on their athletes and the pride could be felt all over Messe Berlin. Father’s Day was made even more special for Christina Fitzpatrick and Deirdre Walsh's fathers in the stand beaming with pride at their daughters’ performances on the court. 

 

Football 

Double digits on the scoreboard isn't a common sight in Irish football... The team captained by proud Cork man Stephen O'Leary lead his team to victory under the searing Berlin sun. The raucous supporters were were well rewarded for their cheers as the team put some stunning goals away against Switzerland.



Goalie Omer Teko brought some serious energy to the team, moving his players around the pitch as he needed. Henry Cloran started his Games week with a well-deserved hat trick and plenty more left in the bank for later he said!

 

Swimming

The baking heat outside the Schwim-und Sprunhalle in the Europastportpark in Berlin could only be matched by the enthusiastic atmosphere generated inside by the army of Team Ireland supporters, mostly consisting of family, friends and supporters of Omagh athlete Ellie Armstrong.  

Ellie looked focused and determined as she entered the Arena flanked by her coaches, but had to endure an anxious wait before her time to shine as the swim events ran one hour behind schedule. When the opportunity to shine in the 100 metres and 200 metres freestyle quarterfinals came, she grabbed it with both hands. 

Ellie was extremely happy with her performance, beaming as she exited the arena at the news that it was only a couple of seconds off her personal best. We certainly look forward to seeing Ellie in the pool again later in the week. 

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