This is bloody brilliant.
Rhys McClenaghan, take a bow. The Newtownards native clinched gold on the pommel horse at the European Championships in Glasgow on Sunday afternoon.
In doing so, the talented 19-year-old became the first Irishman to win European gold in gymnastics and doing so in style with a score of 15.300 at the SSE Hydro Arena.
McClenaghan’s achievement is the highlight of what has been a strong showing for Ireland at the European Championships.
Gary and Paul O’Donovan clinched silver in rowing, Thomas Barr took bronze in the 400m hurdles and Shane Ryan sealed bronze in the 50m backstroke to fill a nation with pride.
Is this the routine that sees @mcclenaghanRhys win Ireland's first European Gymnastics medal? #Glasgow2018 #Rtesport pic.twitter.com/9EIrqgnDYg
— RTÉ Sport (@RTEsport) August 12, 2018
McClenaghan was nerveless, performing his 45-second routine with precision and beautiful rhythm before perfectly executing a triple Russian and finishing with a flawless dismount.
He beat Great Britain’s Olympic and World champion Max Whitlock, who missed out after scoring 14.000.
It continues McClenaghan’s fine year, having also secured gold at the Gold Coast Commonwealth Games in April.
Rhys McClenaghan has done it – with a huge score of 15.300!! 🇮🇪
A GOLD for the 19-year-old boy from Ireland to add to his gold at the Gold Coast Commonwealth Games! 🥇🥇
The future is bright for this young talent! 🙌#EC2018 #TheMoment pic.twitter.com/IciQmZoTgS
— European Championships (@Euro_Champs) August 12, 2018
