2022 Commonwealth Games - McClenaghan claims Silver as Montgomery impresses on debut

01.08.22 Birmingham, United Kingdom; Rhys McClenaghan has claimed Silver in the Pommel Final at the 2022 Commonwealth Games in Birmingham with a score of 14.133. His compatriot Eamon Montgomery finished 5^th with an excellent display in the Floor Final scoring 13.666 in what was his debut at the Games.

Speaking after his final, Rhys McClenaghan had this to say: “It’s a bit of a mixture of emotions. I came here to retain my title but it wasn’t to be unfortunately. There was just a small error in the routine that cost me the gold medal. Nonetheless, I’m happy to bring home another medal for my country.”

Speaking in the aftermath of today’s results, Gymnastics Ireland Performance and Technical Manager Sally Johnson said: “A strong fight by Rhys to secure the Silver medal after an unfortunate wobble in the second half of his routine. Eamon’s routine was also world class and we are really looking forward to seeing him progress in the rest of the year. Well done to both lads and all the best to Ewan tomorrow in his Vault Final!”

Speaking from Birmingham, Gymnastics Ireland’s Men’s National Performance Coach, Luke Carson was complimentary of both gymnasts’ performances: “Eamon’s routine was excellent and he is maturing into a world class floor worker. We are very happy with Rhys’ Silver medal. We now have our eyes focused on the European Championships.”

Conor McGovern, personal coach of Eamon had this to say following the event: “Very proud of how the boys performed today. I know the boys have more to give in their performances. They are both young and will be even better at the next Games.” McGovern’s focus now turns to tomorrow’s Vault Final where another gymnast under his tutelage will compete: “Ewan (McAteer) has room to improve ahead of finals and is hoping to go out and do his best routines.”

Gymnastics Ireland CEO Mr. Ciaran Gallagher added: “Huge congratulations to Eamon on his first CWG final and Rhys on banking the silver medal today in Birmingham. Great results ahead of Europeans in Munich in a few weeks’ time with both boys capable of delivering much more. Tomorrow we look forward to Ewan in the Vault Final to close out what already has been a hugely successful games for the guys. Congrats also to coaches Luke Carson & Conor McGovern!”

Make sure to follow Ewan McAteer in the Vault Final from 1pm tomorrow on BBC and across Gymnastics Ireland social channels.

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