Feature by Katrina Tasker
A record-breaking young Irish diver with Rathmullan connections is just one-step away from qualifying for the Tokyo Olympics.
Ciara McGing (20), whose grandmother Pam Finney (nee Sheridan) hails from Market Square in Rathmullan and has grown up enjoying holidays in the seaside village, has been diving for Ireland for the past four years.
And during that time, she’s achieved a great deal as she competes individual in the 10m platform.
After setting a new Irish record and personal best on 10m platform in March, Ciara will compete on May 4, at the FINA Diving World Cup in Tokyo Japan with her Irish team mates in this qualifying event for the Olympic Games.
Ciara McGing
Aged 17 Ciara won senior Irish National Championships on 10m Platform and aged 18 represented Ireland at the Junior European Diving Championships.
Born in London, Ciara started diving from the age of eight and became GB National Skills Champion at age 11, won various medals at different age group levels and was the GB Junior Elite Champion (16-18yrs) on Platform, training at Crystal Palace.
However she opted for Ireland after meeting Irish divers and coach, Damian Ball during competitions.
Ciara trained at the National Aquatic Centre in Dublin and competed at the Irish National Championships and made the decision to move to Dublin and compete for Ireland.
“Once I had visited the facilities and met the people, I knew this was where I was meant to be. I felt much more at home in Dublin and in that programme, so it was an easy decision for me.”
Ciara moved to Blanchardstown at 16 years old and continued her UK studies online, whilst training as a high performance athlete of the Irish National Sports Campus.
After three years in Dublin, Ciara moved to the USA in August 2020 to Ohio State University on a diving scholarship. She continues to train six days a week at university and has the Paris Olympics in 2024 firmly in her sight.
“Competing for Ireland was the best decision I’ve made and all the sacrifices have been well worth it, given the world of opportunities it has opened up for me. I’m constantly improving and have a great support team behind me.”