Bray flies the flag for Olympic boxing hopefuls

Olympic fever has swept through Bray, Co Wicklow, as the town sends two of its own to the London Games.

The town is bedecked in Olympic decorations sending good wishes to boxers Katie Taylor and Adam Nolan, dubbing them ‘The Pride of Bray’.

To kick off celebrations, a large street party will be held tonight from 6pm on the main street. The celebration will include a giant LED screen showing the opening ceremony in London, where Katie will carry the Irish flag.

Local TD Simon Harris said the boxing duo have lifted local spirits.

“There has been a phenomenal rallying around both of them. Adam is originally from Wexford, but they are both the pride of Bray,” he said.

“We are told that Katie Taylor is Ireland’s biggest hope for Olympic success and we are delighted that she is carrying the flag.

“She is a great role model for young people, showing that you can achieve your dreams.”

One of the pubs that Katie frequently visits is helping to organise tonight’s party. It is hoped that around 10,000 people will attend tonight’s festivities, said manager of Holland’s Pub, Brian Holland.

“The atmosphere here is already electric and we have everything ready for the party. It is the first time in 25 years that the main street has been closed off for a festival,” he said.

“There’s always a great buzz when Katie is boxing, but this will be by far the biggest. It’s bringing in a lot of tourists to the area too.”

Cathaoirleach of Bray Town Council and organiser of tonight’s festivities, Mick Glynn, said the Olympics is a massive event for the town, with a population of 31,000.

“This is a huge opportunity to put the town back on the map. Last week we had the air show, which brought around 80,000 people to the town, and the atmosphere hasn’t gone down at all.

“As far as we are concerned, no matter how Katie and Adam perform during the games, they will both be greeted home to a heroes’ welcome.”