A Churchtown girl, Isabel O’Leary will fly to Andorra today Thursday to represent Ireland in Alpine skiing at a prestigious international children’s competition, the Borrufa Cup, which takes place from this Saturday 26th January to 30th January. This is her second year in a row being selected by the Snowsports Association of Ireland which is affiliated to the Sports Council to represent Ireland internationally. She will compete in four disciplines, Slalom, Giant Slalom, Super G and Combi. Each race consists of two runs over two different courses and each race is on a separate day, which means that Isabel will be racing continuously over a four day period. Ireland is sending a team of 9 athletes ranging in age from 11 to 15, and Isabel is delighted to have been chosen for this event. Last year, Isabel placed in the top 20 in all her races and she was placed in the top 15 in the giant slalom. Over 200 children from 30 countries competed in the races. Her result was a great achievement as her skill and expertise helped her to beat participants from well known ski nations like Spain, France, and Italy. Isabel will carry the Irish flag at the opening ceremony on Satrurday next.
Skiing is a labour of love for Isabel who has to travel to the Ski Club of Ireland in Kilternan, Dublin, every weekend for training with her coach.
The Churchtown skier would like to thank her sponsors and all the well-wishers who have contributed to her training costs and helped her to achieve international selection for Ireland. She is also proud to be the only athlete from outside Dublin on the team.