McManus honoured with mayoral chain medallion

A NEW medallion is to be added to the mayoral chain of Limerick in honour of businessman JP McManus’ contribution towards sport in his native city.

The medallion will be the 77th solid gold piece on the 19th mayoral chain.

Cllr Kevin Kiely announced that Mr McManus will be recognised as the first Limerick owner of a horse to win the prestigious Aintree Grand National.

The horse Just Push it, ridden by AP McCoy and trained by John Joe O’Neill, won the 2010 Aintree Grand National, one of the most esteemed races in the world.

Cllr Kiely, who was Mayor of Limerick at the time of the Aintree win, described the achievement as “one of the sporting highlights” of his mayoralty.

“No man deserved to win the National more than JP McManus and it was an outstanding achievement and a tremendous honour for all of us in Limerick,” he said.

“We are all very proud we have an owner of the stature of JP in our city. He has worked tirelessly to help many worthy causes in Ireland particularly here in Limerick where many projects have benefited from his generosity. I am delighted to be able to recognise his sporting contribution to life in Limerick, particularly during 2011 when Limerick is European City of Sport, with this new medallion on the mayoral chain which will be a historic occasion in itself.”

The new medallion will be crafted by JJ Kenneally’s Jewellers in Limerick.

Limerick FC chairman Pat O’Sullivan, who is sponsoring the medallion, said countless groups of people have benefited from the generosity of the McManus family.

“In times like we have presently, the region is very lucky to have such an inspiring and generous family within our community,” Mr O’Sullivan said.

“Limerick soccer has benefited from this generosity for which we are all grateful as it inspires and helps us to play our part in preparing our young people for life’s challenges through sport.”

The history of the Limerick City Mayoral chain stretches back to the early 19th century.

Mayoral chains were uncommon in Britain and Ireland before this time and in 1820 four gold chains of office were purchased.

Two were for the Mayor and the other two were for each of the sheriffs.

From 1822 onwards, many of the mayors added extra roundels or links to the principal chain inscribed with their name, year of office and details of the events of their Mayoralty.