By any measure, it has been a remarkable year for Irish sport. Across countless codes and disciplines, both at home and abroad, Irish sportspeople have set standards of excellence that went beyond even the loftiest expectations. Their success is their own and should be recognised as such. And yet there is little doubt that the country at large takes pride in their achievements and, crucially, it encourages participation at all levels.
There was much to lift the spirits, including a first qualification for the Women’s World Cup in soccer and a first series win in rugby against the All Blacks in New Zealand. Rory McIlroy regained the status of the world’s number one golfer. Rachael Blackmore became the first woman to ride the winner of the Cheltenham Gold Cup. Paul O’Donovan and Fintan McCarthy continued to dominate rowing. Ciara Mageean won a superb silver at the European Championships.
Boxing remains a high point. Katie Taylor sold out Madison Square Garden and had the professional fight of the year at the top of an all-female card. Amateurs Amy Broadhurst and Lisa O’Rourke won gold medals at the World Championships.
There were many landmark moments. World champions in boxing, gymnastics, rowing and paracycling. Three-in-a-row for the Limerick hurlers, back-to-back titles for the Meath women footballers, All-Ireland final displays for the ages by David Clifford and Shane Walsh.
A striking aspect of this year’s success is how broad-based it is, coming from many sports and all parts of the island. And a new young group of competitors is generating much promise for the future. Just as importantly, success at a high level encourages participation, particularly among younger people, with lifetime physical and mental benefits.
Ireland’s sports starts will need funding and support to keep progressing – only so much can be achieved against the odds. Meanwhile wider investment to encourage participation in sport at all levels can continue to reap a rich dividend.