BACK-TO-BACK world gymnastics champion Rhys McClenaghan added one final award to his remarkable year as he was named 2023 RTÉ Sportsperson of the Year.
McClenaghan, 24, won pommel horse gold at the European Gymnastics Championships in Turkey in April.
And he followed it up by defending his title at the World Gymnastics Championships in Antwerp in October.
McClenaghan topped a seven-strong shortlist that included undisputed two-weight world boxing champion Katie Taylor, Irish rugby legend Johnny Sexton, and Republic of Ireland soccer captain Katie McCabe.
“This means the world to me,” a delighted McClenaghan said as he accepted his award. “Thank you so much.”
“I can’t believe I’m holding this in my hands. Amazing.”
“It’s just incredible that I’m an Irish gymnast taking home world titles, and that’s never been done before of course. I’m so proud to be able to do that.
“I want to thank all of the nominees for this award for inspiring me.”
Brighton’s Evan Ferguson was named Young Sportsperson of the Year, while four-in-a-row hurling champions Limerick were named Team of the Year.
Irish rugby head coach Andy Farrell took home the Manager of the Year award, while paralympic sprinter Jason Smyth was inducted into the Hall of Fame.
Poor Saracens, they have Itoje and Kruis, tried to get Etzebeth on a loan deal and instead they had to settle for Skelton, your heart would go out to them so it would.
He’s a lazy penalty machine. That’s fine
Big time. An odd signing
@Bazalicous Dunne: I’m lazy. Really lazy. This fella puts me to shame. Big lumbering eejit that arrives late to rucks, does nothing, gives away penalties and generally is more of a hindrance than an asset.
He won’t get near that team
Australia can thank Sarries for teaching how to play
Does this rule him out of super rugby competition in the new year?
@shane finnegan: Pre-season will have already started for the Super Rugby sides. He’s doing his Australian club and international prospects no favours. I’d say Chieka is fuming.