Limerick athletic star wins prestigious award at Team Ireland Olympic Ball

LIMERICK'S Sarah Lavin has finished off her incredible 2023 season with adding another piece of sliverware to her collection after winning the PTSB Inspiring the Nation Award at the Team Ireland Olympic Ball.

The award recognises an athlete who has exemplified the spirit of unwavering dedication and a commitment to excellence through their sport and actions in 2023.

Sarah, who was a worthy winner of the award, set a new Irish national records in both the 100m hurdles and 100m disciplines, as well as achieving the Olympic qualification time.

Lisnagry woman Lavin, of Emerald AC, broke Phil Healy's national 100m record with a terrific time of 11.27 in Bellinzona back in September while beating Derval O'Rourke's Irish record of 12.65 which was set 13 years ago in the 100m hurdles. 

The other nominees for the Inspiring the Nation Award included Kellie Harrington (Boxing), Aoife O’Rourke (Boxing), Rhasidat Adeleke (Athletics) and Amy Wall (Kickboxing).

Lavin's coach Noelle Morrissey was also nominated for the The Deloitte Impact that Matters Award, celebrating the team behind the team, but was not successful.