'You're our very own hero' - Kilkenny man paraded locally after gold medal win

Local high-achiever David Brennan was given a hero’s welcome home to Farrell’s Bar in the village on Saturday night, as the North Kilkenny community celebrated his gold medal success at the World Police and Fire Games. The Freshford native travelled to America to represent the Dublin Airport Fire Service.

The achievement was made even sweeter for the local athlete who progressed positively from winning Bronze in 2021 at the games in China to the ultimate prize this at this year’s showpiece event.

The competition, held in Alabama in the USA saw a wide range of events with the local man competing in the Push Pull weightlifting competition in the bench press and deadlift event. David bench pressed 142.5kg and dead lifted 290kg to score a combined total of 432.5kg which gave him top spot in his competition, and a coveted gold medal.

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More than 8,500 first responders from all over the world took part in the various competitions, with David undoubtedly in an illustrious group.

No expense was spared for the night of celebrations as the local fire service escorted David around the village where a large crowd had assembled also the Local Garda Station ahead of the festivities.

On the night, it was standing room only as people came out in their droves to show their appreciation for their fellow parishioner who was feted for his fantastic achievement. Amongst them, David's relations from Tipperary and and his very proud uncle Donal Heaphy.

David was over the moon with the reception where he was joined by his wife Julia and his three children.

Fresh from his successful year as Cathaoirleach of Kilkenny County Council, Cllr Michael McCarthy presented Julia with a Bouquet of Flowers and David with a framed photograph.

"David we are all immensely proud of your unique achievement. You made your village, county and country proud, what a hero, what an achievement," he said.

"There’s a lot of blood, sweat, and guts between dreams and success," Cllr McCarthy continued.

"The World Police and Fire Games bring out the best in everyday heroes, and tonight I'm delighted to say David Brennan you’re our very own hero."

Cllr McCarthy also extended his thanks to all those who made the night possible including; Tommy Butler who videoed the entire event, Terry Campion for his photography, to the Farrell family for hosting and to Murty Kennedy who provided the sound system.

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