Grant Awards for young sports stars from the Fermanagh Recreational Trust

The Fermanagh Recreational Trust continues to support our local talent by this year giving out six grant awards to assist with sports development, including kayaker Laura Keenan, rower Ryan Ballantine, boxer Mark Kells and equestrians Julia and Rianna Mulligan all received help towards fees, training, equipment costs etc which will help develop their future careers. The fund, administered by the Fermanagh Trust, supports the organisation, development and funding of recreational activities and facilities in County Fermanagh, with a particular emphasis on young people and youth development.

Laura Keenan will use her grant award to develop her skills in kayaking ahead of the Ireland Games in June 2018, representing Lakeland Special Olympics. Laura has been commended by her coaches for her commitment and talent and hopes to qualify for the World Games in 2019. Ryan Ballantine, a former member of Enniskillen Royal Boat Club is currently with Newcastle University Boat Club. He is aiming to make the U23 World Championships in July and will use his grant award from the Trust to take part in a number of trials.

Mark Kells is a member of Erne Boxing Club and winner of a National Title last season. His grant will cover travel and equipment costs ahead of attending National Squad training in Dublin. Training fortnightly with the squad will be vital for Mark’s development ahead of hopefully making the European Youth and World Youth Championships in 2018.

Julia and Rianna Mulligan received support for equipment and professional coaching costs. They are hoping to further develop their riding, jumping and dressage techniques to take part in higher level national and international events next year.

James Cooper, trustee of the Fermanagh Recreational Trust said “We are delighted to be in a position to provide support to the individuals and organisation. It is important that we encourage and nurture our local, home grown talent to achieve their full potential. Their determination and ambition is so impressive and no doubt these young people have all the qualities to become excellent ambassadors for Fermanagh.”

Closing date for the next round of applications to the Fermanagh Recreational Trust will be the end of February 2018. For more information or to download an application form CLICK HERE