Team Ireland delivered a powerhouse performance on Day Three of the European Para Youth Games, securing two magnificent gold medals in athletics and adding three hard fought medals in Para table tennis catapulting their overall medal tally to an impressive five.
Para Athletics
Mayo’s Damien Moyles built on his Day Two silver with a phenomenal personal best in the 400m, claiming gold for Team Ireland. Daire Macken again followed Moyles’ path and struck gold with a commanding PB in his own 400m race, while Aryell Sheedy continued the team’s strong form, delivering a personal best performance.
Para Table Tennis
Para table tennis delivered a trio of medals for Team Ireland, led by a stellar performance from Kevin O’Callaghan who clinched gold in the mixed doubles and silver in the men’s doubles. Aaron Mellows also made his mark on the tournament, securing a well-earned bronze in the singles event, capping off a strong showing for the Para table tennis squad.
Wheelchair Basketball
Team Ireland’s wheelchair basketball squad, battled hard in a tough loss to eventual champions Italy and pushing Portugal all the way in a tightly contested matchup, narrowly missing out on the podium. There was some consolation as standout player Conor Coughlan earned well deserved recognition with a place on the tournament All-Star team as MVP.
Para Swimming
It was another strong day in the pool for Luke O’Donoghue and Luke Brennan, who continued to impress with competitive performances. Brennan set a new personal best in the 50m Freestyle, clocking 30.36, and followed it up with a 2:54.59 finish in the 200m Individual Medley. O’Donoghue delivered solid swims as well, finishing the 100m Backstroke in 1:11.90 and the 100m Butterfly in 1:15.00.
Speaking about the Games, Paralympics Ireland’s president Lisa Clancy said: “The European Paralympic Youth Games in Istanbul has been a resounding success for Team Ireland. Seven medals, personal bests and an All Star in Basketball were amazing results in four sports, but the laughter, friendships formed, and the unwavering support of family was outstanding. The future for Paralympic sport in Ireland is bright as we look towards LA28 , Brisbane 32 and beyond, the experiences gained here will stand us well in the future. A huge thanks to all our para athletes, coaches, support team and staff , together it made the Games one that the whole country can be proud of.”
RESULTS DAY 3 – Saturday 27th
Para Athletics
Damien Moyles: 400m T13: 54.16 PB (Gold)
Daire Macken: 400m T36/37/38/47: 56.79 PB (Gold)
Aryell Sheedy: 400m T36/37/38/47: 57.79 PB
Wheelchair Basketball
Italy v Ireland: L –
Ireland v Portugal: L 46 – 63
Para Swimming
Luke Brennan:
50m Freestyle: 30.36 (PB)
200m IM: 2:54.59
Luke O’ Donoghue:
100m Backstroke: 1:11.90
100m Butterfly: 1:15.00
Para Table Tennis
Kevin O’ Callaghan – Mixed Doubles Semi Final: 3 – 0
Kevin O’ Callaghan – Mixed Doubles Semi Final: 3 – 0
