TRIBUTES have continued to pour in for Rathfarnham native Annalise Murphy following her historic win of a silver medal at the 2016 Olympics.
The Southsider became the first Irish female to win an Olympic medal in sailing and it is Ireland’s first medal in sailing since 1980.
The Taoiseach Enda Kenny said that winning Ireland’s first sailing medal in the Olympics since 1980 was a fantastic achievement and testament to Annalise’s hard work, dedication and talent.
“Following on from her fourth place finish in 2012, I am delighted for Annalise, her family and for Irish sailing, that she has won a silver medal – just rewards for the considerable sacrifices made in pursuit of this Olympic success,” Mr Kenny said.
President Michael Higgins conveyed his congratulations to Annalise Murphy on winning a silver medal in the Women’s Laser Radial.
“On behalf of the people of Ireland, I warmly congratulate Annalise Murphy on winning sailing Olympic silver today,” the president stated.
The Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport, Shane Ross and Minister of State for Tourism and Sport, Patrick O’Donovan also praised the sailor on her achievement.
“I am delighted for Annalise,” Senator Ross said. “We all know how determined she was to bring home a medal, after coming so close four years ago this is a fantastic achievement for her.
“Bouncing back from the disappointment of finishing fourth in London 2012 to become European Champion in 2013 to now achieving a silver medal at the Olympics is a wonderful endorsement for what can be achieved through hard work and talent. She has been so determined and she is a fantastic role model for all young athletes.”
Minister O’Donovan added: “Annalise has worked so hard, not just for the last week but for the last four years, to overcome the frustration of 2012 and win an Olympic silver medal at Rio is no more than she deserves.
“To become the first Irish female to win an Olympic medal in sailing and Ireland’s first medal in sailing since 1980 is magnificent for Annalise, Team Ireland and the country.
“It was great to hear her brother was able to be there to support her during this achievement. Her family and the sailing club in Dun Laoghaire I’m sure are immensely proud to see her on that podium. It has been a great few days on the water for Team Ireland and hopefully there will be many more successes to come.”
Annalise’s local TD, John Lahart (FF) said it was a tremendous success for Team Ireland.
“I want to send my congratulations to Annalise, and all the Irish team,” he said.
“Her achievement in securing a silver medal is a testament to her hard work and dedication down through the years. It has been an amazing week for Irish water sports, whose athletes are acting as superb role models for young people all over the country.
“The whole of Ireland is behind our athletes in Rio and our support remains fully behind them between now and the end of the games. Today, though, is Annalise’s day and it is a particularly proud day for Rathfarnham.”
