Rhys McClenaghan BEM
Ards and North Down Borough Council is proud to announce that it will confer its highest civic honour, the Freedom of the Borough, upon Rhys McClenaghan BEM - European, Commonwealth, World and Olympic Gold Medallist - in recognition of his outstanding achievements in sport and his exceptional contribution to the Borough.
The decision was confirmed at the full Council meeting on Wednesday 25 September 2024, following a cross-party Motion proposed by Alderman McIlveen and seconded by Councillor S Irvine.
Born and raised in Newtownards, Rhys has become a global sporting superstar while remaining deeply connected to his roots. His career highlights include:
- Olympic Gold Medal - Paris 2024
- World Champion - 2022 and 2023
- European Champion - 2018, 2023, 2024
- Commonwealth Gold Medal - 2018
Rhys is the only gymnast in history to hold European, Commonwealth, World and Olympic titles on a single apparatus, cementing his status as one of the sport's greatest pommel horse specialists.
The Council will confer its highest honour on Rhys McClenaghan BEM in a formal ceremony for invited guests on Friday 23 January 2026. As part of the celebrations, there will be a public display of Rhys' skills on Sunday 25 January 2026 at Ards Blair Mayne Wellbeing and Leisure Complex, Newtownards.
Further information regarding ticketing and full event details will be shared shortly through the Council's official communication channels, including our website and social media platforms.
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