Following the thrills and spills of the recent 2016 Summer Olympic Games, sports fans across the globe are set to be treated to another showpiece event as the Paralympic Games are set for kick off in the Brazilian City of Rio de Janeiro.
The Games will officially commence on Wednesday evening (Approximately 9.30pm Irish time) when the opening ceremony takes place in the spectacular and world famous, Maracana Stadium.
Unlike at the Olympic Games, this time around in Rio, there will of course be Irish interest in the Table Tennis event as the European Silver Medalist and Paralympian of London 2012 Rena McCarron Rooney will take her place in the Ladies Class 2 category.
Speaking ahead of the Games, TTI Marketing Director, Paul Dolan said:
“On behalf of the Board and Membership of Table Tennis Ireland we would like to wish The Irish Paralympic Squad the best of luck and every success in their endeavours in Rio commencing this week.
In particular Rena Mc Carron Rooney, the only Irish Para Table Tennis Player participating in these Games. Rena is one of only 12 players in the world to qualify in her class which is a huge achievement in itself. Her experience at the London Games should help in her quest for a podium finish in Brazil”.
Echoing these sentiments, TTI Chairperson, Rob Cowan stated:
”We are all so excited here in Table Tennis Ireland as the Games draw closer. It is the dream off every Irish athlete to compete at the Olympic or Paralympic Games so what Rena has already achieved is remarkable.
At a time when we as an NGB are striving to encourage female participation in sport, Rena stands out as a true ambassador and fine example to all women involved in Table Tennis
Rena, we wish you every success for the 10 days ahead in Rio!”
Be sure to check our website for ongoing updates as Para High Performance Coach Ronan Rooney reports from Brazil. We will also be keeping you up to date via our Twitter and Facebook feeds.