Trampolining in Ireland has seen significant growth over the past few decades, with several athletes making notable contributions to the sport both nationally and internationally.
This article highlights some of Ireland’s most prolific trampolinists, their achievements, and the impact they’ve had on the sport’s development within the country.
Ryan Devine
In 2021, Ryan Devine made history by becoming the first Irish gymnast to compete at the Trampoline World Championships held in Baku, Azerbaijan. He concluded the competition by ranking 44th in the individual men’s trampoline event with a total score of 101.560. His coach, Simon Flannery, expressed immense pride in Ryan’s performance, especially considering it was his first international competition in nearly two years. This milestone marked a significant step forward for Irish trampolining on the world stage.
Historic Synchro Trampoline Finalists
In 2024, Irish trampolining reached another milestone at the European Championships in Guimarães, Portugal. The junior boys’ synchro team qualified in 7th place with a score of 77.85, making them the first Irish trampoline gymnasts to reach a European Championships final. They concluded the final in 7th place, setting a new benchmark for future athletes. Additionally, the junior team achieved an 8th place finish with a score of 253.40, further showcasing the rising talent in Irish trampolining.
Northern Ireland’s Rising Stars
Northern Ireland has also produced talented trampolinists who have competed on the world stage. In recent years, three gymnasts from Northern Ireland’s largest trampoline club prepared to represent Great Britain and Ireland in international competitions. Their dedication and hard work have contributed to the growing recognition of trampolining talent emerging from this region.
The Irish Student Trampoline Open (ISTO)
While not focusing on individual athletes, it’s essential to acknowledge the role of events like the Irish Student Trampoline Open in promoting and developing trampolining talent in Ireland. Established in 2001, ISTO has become the largest trampolining competition in Ireland and the largest student-run trampolining competition in Europe. The event attracts over 600 competitors annually from various countries, providing a platform for both novice and elite athletes to showcase their skills. Such events have been instrumental in nurturing Ireland’s trampolining talent.
Conclusion
Ireland’s trampolining scene has evolved significantly, with athletes like Ryan Devine and the junior synchro team making historic strides on the international stage. Their achievements, along with the support of events like ISTO, have laid a strong foundation for the future of trampolining in Ireland. As the sport continues to grow, it’s anticipated that more Irish trampolinists will emerge, further elevating the country’s presence in the global trampolining community.