The Donegal Association has broken with tradition and announced joint winners of this year’s Donegal Person of the Year Award.
Both swimmer Ann Marie Ward and businessman Hugh Green have been named as the winners of this year’s award.
The announcement was made in the Harcourt Hotel before a large gathering of guests.
Portnablagh woman Ann Marie was a very popular choice having made huge ‘waves’ for herself in the swimming world in the past year.
As well as crossing the North Channel, the 45 year old HSE worker was also named Open Swimmer of the Year.
Ms Ward said she was delighted to be presented with the award and chatted with guests who rushed to congratulate her.
And Hugh Green is known around the world and especially in New Zealand where he has created a hugely successful business empire.
Mr.Green, 80, who is originally from Raphoe, returns to Donegal almost every summer to holiday.
He recently made a large donation to Letterkenny General Hospital.
Although Mr Green could not be at the ceremony, he was represented by family friend Mary Harte-Nolan.
Among the guests at the announcement of this year’s winners was Senator Jimmy Harte, Deputy Joe McHugh, Cllr Michael McBride as well as Junior Ministers Dinny McGinley and Michael Ring.
A full function to celebrate the winners of the 2012 Donegal Persons of the Year will be held in the Regency Hotel on March 3rd next.
Donegal Association assistant PRO, Liam McDermott said: “Hugh Green deserves this recognition for his many great achievements and because he has given so much back to Donegal.
“Irish sportswomen don’t get the recognition they deserve. Anne Marie Ward is not only a great ambassador for sport in Donegal but for Irish sport generally.”
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