(ANS – Celbridge) – The Olympic Torch which will light the fire at the 2012 London Olympic Games is already on its way. Among the torch bearers are two young  athletes who grew up  at the Salesian School in Celbridge: Mark Kenneally and Fiach O’Rourke.

Mark Kenneally, Ireland's first marathon runner to qualify for the London Olympics, has been selected to carry the torch on 6 June through the streets of Dublin. On 25 May he visited his ‘alma mater’ Salesian College, Celbridge where he was presented with a specially inscribed bowl to mark his historic achievement, "Mark Kenneslly, Salesian Olympian 2012, Congratulations" and the school's crest.

In the occasion he was also presented with two cheques, one for €500.00  from the School's Parents' Association and one for €1000.00 from  the school to help with his expenses in preparing for the Olympics. He has also received a grant of €12,000.00 from the National Sports Council..

Another Past Pupil of the Salesians, Celbridge, Fiach O'Rourke (2001 - 2007) who completed a degree in Sport, Health and PE in 2010 in Bangor University (Wales) and has been working in Banger since that time, has been chosen to carry the Olympic torch on 28 May in Bangor. “"Fiach has been an inspiration to sport in Bangor, Wales and Ireland. He has a remarkable sporting profile before moving to Wales including competing for Ireland in sport but also organising and facilitating of sport for youth… captained the university badminton club which he grew to the largest club in the university. Leading the team to 2 league wins and promotions in 2 years… while also setting up a squash club.”

His efforts in helping other young people - all on a voluntary basis - have had a major impact on Sport in Bangor.

The school takes great pride in the honour given to these two past pupil athletes.

Published 31/05/2012