Six bursaries awarded from The Oisín McGrath Foundation – Applications open again for local sporting talent

Three talented young sporting individuals and three organisations have received funding awards from the Oisín McGrath Foundation. The Foundation was formed in memory of 13 year old Oisín McGrath from Belcoo, inspired by Oisín’s life and to inspire others through his memory, in particular through youth sports development. Administered by the Fermanagh Trust, the Oisín McGrath Foundation provides financial support to young people who demonstrate exceptional commitment and/ or ability to the world of sport.

15 year old Tiarnán McManus is a talented cross country and mountain runner who has been successfully competing nationally and internationally. The Oisín McGrath Foundation supported Tiarnán to attend the prestigious King Henry VIII relay race in Coventry this month. Enabling him to continue to advance his running career.

Enniskillen Royal Boat Club have been upgrading their gym equipment to help develop and train rowers during the winter months. They will use their grant from the Foundation to purchase 2 ergometers. The young rowers train very hard and more equipment will allow them to improve their performance.

George Kernaghan has had a number of successes with Enniskillen Royal Boat Club including placing third at the Irish Indoor Championships. The Oisín McGrath Foundation is supporting George’s travel to rowing regattas and training costs.

Rugby player Leah Irwin’s dominant demonstrations at training and in games impressed so much that she hopes to be selected for Irish U18 training cap this Easter. The Foundation is supporting Leah’s intense training schedule which involves travelling regularly to Belfast and Dublin.

 

Enniskillen Gaels bring gaelic football and hurling to both young and old in the community. They’ve been supported by the Foundation to purchase new equipment to support the youth hurling activities in the club and allow the young people to develop their skills.

 

St Joseph’s College have been awarded a bursary to support SEN pupils the opportunity to try different sporting activities with their peers in the local community and access to professional coaching.

Oisín’s mum Sharon McGrath commented “The Foundation brings opportunity to others alongside celebrating Oisín’s life and his love and commitment to sport. We are pleased to be able to make these grant awards supporting the practical training and equipment costs. It is our hope that in the future we can support even more young people and groups, assisting them in their sports development in memory of Oisín.”

Applicants to the Oisín McGrath Foundation must be between 11 and 18 years of age and residents in Fermanagh or the surrounding area. Closing date for the next round will be 22nd March 2024. For more information or to apply CLICK HERE