Awards honour climber’s memory

FAMILY members of a late Limerick mountaineer gathered in Adare yesterday for the launch of an awards scheme dedicated to his memory.

The Gerard McDonnell Contribution to Sport Award 2010 recognises contributions and achievements in sport by volunteers, participants and administrators throughout Co Limerick.

The initiative has been developed by the County Limerick Local Sports Partnership (LSP), in conjunction with the Limerick County Development Board.

Mr McDonnell entered the history books when he reached the summit of the world’s second highest mountain, K2, in August 2008. The native of Kilcornan was tragically killed while descending the Himalayan peak just hours after achieving his lifetime ambition.

The 37-year-old was part of an expedition team comprising seven climbers from Ireland, Holland and Australia.

Launching the awards scheme at the Woodlands Hotel, Cllr Richard Butler, chairman of Limerick County Council, said: “I would like to acknowledge and thank Gerard’s family and friends for approving his association with the award, which will help preserve his memory as well as celebrate the achievements of others in his native Co Limerick.”

LSP coordinator Phelim Macken said the aim of the competition is to award representatives of local clubs and organisations who, in their outstanding efforts and persistence, have made an excellent contribution to sport at a local level.

“ By giving their time and effort to the sport, the club and the community, the person who receives this award will have displayed a steadfast commitment to keeping sport alive in their local area together with promoting volunteerism on a countywide basis,” Mr Macken said.

The inaugural award was won in 2009 by Joe Cunningham, a rowing coach at Castleconnell Boat Club.