Tributes have been paid this week to Aoife and Lisa O'Rourke after the Roscommon sisters both won silver medals at the IBA world championships on Sunday. The sisters, from Tarmon just outside Castlerea, have been described as an inspiration to young athletes across the region. They were given a hero's welcome home at Castlerea Boxing Club last night. Long-time Castlerea coach Paddy Sharkey said they were 'outstanding young women'. In a touching moment, Aoife and Lisa presented the coach with a medal given to them by the IBA for someone who inspired them. Paddy said the gesture came as a complete surprise:
A mural paying tribute to the O'Rourke sisters was recently unveiled at Castlerea Boxing Club where the pair first started training. It was commissioned by Roscommon Leader Partnership and completed by artist Nick Burley. CEO of Roscommon Leader Martina Earley said it was a symbol of how young people can inspire their local communities:
