Back home in Donegal: Jason Quigley – Photos Kieran Carlin
THOUSANDS of people have welcomed European Boxing Champion Jason Quigley back to County Donegal.
The 22-year-old boxer – crowned No1 in Europe on Saturday – said he had been ‘completely overwhelmed’ by the reaction he received as he made his way through Ballybofey and Stanorlar tonight.
“The people of Donegal were right behind me and I can’t thank them enough,” said Jason.
“To win a senior European title is a dream come true; something I’ve been working towards since the age of ten.
“I have three titles now, two at underage and u-23 level so to win the Senior title was just a wonderful wonderful day and to come home to this reception is so special.”
The cavalcade made its way to the Finn Valley Sports Centre where tributes were paid to Jason and his family on the incredible achievement. 
“It is without doubt one of the greatest sporting achievements by anyone from County Donegal,” said Patsy McGonagle, the Ireland Olympics mentor and Finn Valley AC man.
“People really wanted to give Jason a proper homecoming. He’s a great local lad with a great local family and it was a real pleasure to welcome him back here.”
Jason will now be looking forward to the world championships in October.
And there are already hopes that he could be an Olympic medal contender in Rio in three years time.
Tags:
