A civic reception has been hosted for Co Fermanagh woman Denise Toner who won double gold recently at the European and World Masters Athletics Championships.
Denise won gold at the W40 800 metres event in Finland earlier this year, after winning the 3000 metres and 1500 metres event at the European Championships in March.
Speaking at an event to mark Denise's achievements at Enniskillen Townhall, Fermanagh and Omagh District Council chair Barry McElduff congratulated the Donagh athlete on her achievements this year.
READ MORE: Fermanagh native one of five killed in Canada mass shooting
"Denise, I understand that you started running at the age of 9 and you enjoyed success in many competitions into your early teens," Cllr McElduff said.
"You then gave up running to play Gaelic Football for St Patrick’s GFC, Donagh and you also made the Ulster Select Team in the Colleges Football.
"Running was still a keen interest and you returned to the sport in 2010 and over the following number of years you took the road race scene by storm.
"It had always been a childhood dream to represent Ireland on the international stage and you have certainly achieved this with great success.
"Earlier this year you competed in the European Masters Athletics Championships in Portugal winning gold in both the 1500m and 3000m.
"The World title was your ultimate goal and you travelled to Finland in June/July to compete in the World Masters Athletics Championships.
"You competed in both the 800m and the 1500m and your desire, drive and endurance saw you race home to claim a gold medal in both.
"Being world class in any sport requires commitment and hard work to maintain your fitness levels. You have certainly shown great commitment and hard work over the years alongside your work and family life.
"Denise, you set yourself the challenge of achieving world success. You travelled the journey and experienced some ups and downs along the way, however, you reached your dream destination."
The council chair added it was a remarkable achievement given her family commitments and a busy career as a teacher.
"To achieve this alongside your family commitments and a busy career as a teacher is truly remarkable. You are an inspiration to anyone who has the ambition to achieve the top accolade in any sport.
"On behalf of Fermanagh and Omagh District Council, and on my own behalf, I would like to congratulate you on your World and European Gold medals. You have certainly done yourself, your family, your running club and the District proud."
READ NEXT:
Enniskillen chef reveals details of new restaurant as he picks up prestigious NI award
Enniskillen businesses' community spirit lands national award nominations
Co Tyrone keyless car thieves make off with children's Christmas presents
Omagh man’s drive to help those in need this Christmas after helping homeless man in town
For all the latest news, visit the Belfast Live homepage here. T o sign up to our FREE newsletters, see here.
