McClenaghan hits medal podium again in World Cup Series!

12.03.23 Baku, Azerbaijan; Rhys McClenaghan secured his second silver medal in the 2023 FIG Apparatus World Cup Series this morning in Baku with a score of 14.933. Rhys also claimed silver two weeks ago in Doha in the World Cup Series.

Halle Hilton came an impressive 6^th place in her final in the Women's Floor with a score of 12.400.

Dominick Cunningham and Eamon Montgomery finished 6^th & 7^th in yesterday's Men's Floor final with scores of 13.066 & 12.766 consecutively.

Speaking of Rhys' medal from Baku, Gymnastics Ireland's Men's National Coach Luke Carson said: "We're very happy today, it was a brand new routine construction with upgraded elements and skills. We are very happy with the success rate of that routine because to come out and do it on an international stage is amazing because it shows such confidence and when it's so early in the season it's amazing to be able to see that. It's a very competitive pommel final once again, so for Rhys to try his upgraded routine under pressure and successfully do that and pick up a medal it's an exceptionally successful day."

Sandra Stevenson, Gymnastics Ireland's Women's National Coach said: "It's great to have two Women's artistic gymnasts out competing at the FIG apparatus World Cup in Baku this weekend. Congratulations to both Halle and Coach Josie on achieving their first senior final on floor, whilst Emma and Coach Chris gaining valuable experience for the 2023 campaign. Overall, it's a pleasing start to the year and we're looking forward to an exciting year of international competitions ahead.

Gymnastics Ireland's Performance & Technical Manager Sally Johnson added: "Congratulations to all the coaches and gymnasts on the results in Baku, great to see 4 gymnasts making the finals in the event! Fantastic second World Cup silver for Rhys in this series on Pommel and Halle with her first World Cup final on floor!"

Congratulations to all and their coaches. Special thanks to our judges as well working hard behind the scenes."

Commenting on the competition Gymnastics Ireland's CEO Mr. Ciaran Gallagher said: ''Great outing in Baku in the 2023 World Cup circuit this side of the European Championships. Great to see Dom & Eamon finish in 6th & 7th in Floor final, Halle 6th in her Floor final and Rhys on the podium claiming Pommel Silver for the 2nd time on the circuit. Great preparation for Europeans in April for all our guys including Emma & Adam, plus our coaches, judges and support staff!''

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