First Minister Michelle O’Neill has led messages of congratulations to Rhys McClenaghan after his Olympic gold medal in Paris.
The Newtownards gymnast wowed judges and spectators in the French capital this afternoon with a near flawless display in the pommel horse competition, becoming the first Team Ireland gymnast to win gold at the Olympics.
Stormont’s leaders were among those paying tribute.
“Rhys McClenaghan makes history as the first ever gymnast from our island to win gold at the Olympics!,” Ms O’Neill posted on X, formerly Twitter, shortly after his win was confirmed.
“What an incredible career that is going from strength to strength, congratulations Rhys.”
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Deputy First Minister Emma Little-Pengelly also posted: “From Newtownards to Olympic Champion! What a fantastic result Rhys! What an AMAZING games our local NI athletes are having!! Making all in NI proud!!”
McClenaghan is the fourth athlete from Northern Ireland to win gold in Paris, joining swimmers Daniel Wiffen and Jack McMillan and rower Hannah Scott.
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Taoiseach Simon Harris said he was so proud of the athlete.
He said: “Our hearts pumped while watching your mesmerising performance.
“Your determination and precision have been top class and you are so deserving of this gold medal.
“Your journey to this Olympic medal has been nothing short of incredible.
“We are all so proud of you. I know having met you in Paris last week how much this means to you and your family.”
Irish president Michael D Higgins also sent his well-wishes, writing on social media: “Congratulations to Rhys McClenaghan on his wonderful Olympic Gold medal in the pommel horse. A richly deserved achievement.”
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Comedian Dara O Briain, who is in Paris and watched Rhys pick up his gold medal, said: “Jesus that was incredible. You could hear a pin drop in the stadium. And then a roar. Glorious!”
Tánaiste Micheál Martin said: “Congratulations Rhys McClenaghan, Olympic Champion. Spectacular, sensational, flawless performance from an incredible gymnast. Not for the first time during these Games, Team Ireland is making history.”
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Sinn Fein president Mary Lou McDonald said she was “absolutely delighted” for the Co Down man, saying it was “a performance for the ages. One worthy of achieving the big dream.”
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Late Late Show host and fellow Co Down man Patrick Kielty also shared his delight in the gold medal for Ireland.
“Can’t get a visual but listening to Olympic Pommel Horse Final on the wireless in France. Rhys has just nailed it. American hasn’t done enough. Sweet Baby Jesus. Anyone else in purgatory,” he posted.
“In bits. So bloody proud of you @McClenaghanRhys You absolute beauty. Olympic Champion!”
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Ards Football Club also paid tribute to their club ambassador on his gold medal writing: “Our club ambassador Rhys McClenaghan is an OLYMPIC CHAMPION!
“Congratulations to Rhys for finishing first place in the men’s pommel horse final, we can’t wait to welcome you and your gold medal back to Newtownards!”
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