The Olympic Federation of Ireland has officially selected Ross Corrigan and Nathan Timoney to row for Ireland at the Olympic Games in Paris this summer.
Corrigan and Timoney qualified the Men’s Pair boat for the Paris Games last September but had to wait until now to ensure it would be the Fermanagh duo in the seat come July.
Corrigan said confirmation of their place in the boat was “a massive relief and clarity as well for the next few weeks.
“It’s nice to get that signed off on and know that we can fully focus on training for the Olympics now for the next five weeks.”
23-year-old Timoney, who has recovered from a back injury and will partner Kinawley man Corrigan in the boat said;
“We’re just glad to have that selection box ticked,” admitting, “it has been a rough patch but we’re out the other side.
“We’re thankful that everything has fallen into place and we’re in position going into the next block of training,” said the Enniskillen man.
Timoney missed out on the recent World Cup II event as he focused on his return from injury but was never deterred as he bid to earn his place in the boat.
“When you have a dream, the dream will always be tested” but now he can’t wait to walk behind the Irish flag at the opening ceremony in Paris;
“I will be honoured. I’m very proud. Obviously the family is proud and there is a sense of pride in Fermanagh. It’s nice to join quite a brief list of athletes that have come from Fermanagh- it is a privilege and an honour and it’s definitely something that will be with me for the rest of my life.”
The athletes will receive their kit and be honoured in front of their families and friends today (Thursday) at the official Rowing Ireland team day before they depart for training camp in Italy next week.
Full interview in next week’s paper
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