Sponsor boost for five-star athletes

SOME of Ireland's top female athletes have been handed a massive boost, with the Mater Private Network announcing sponsorship of five stars.

- 

Champion hurdler Sarah Lavin, two-time Under-21 World Champion sailor Eve McMahon, and racing cyclist and European youth championships gold and silver medallist Lara Gillespie are among those to get the backing of the Mater Private.

Ellen Walshe, a leading Irish record-breaking swimmer, and Nicola Tuthill, a rising young talent in hammer throwing, make up the five.

The Mater Private Network aims to "amplify female athletes' voices" with this sponsorship, increasing visibility and fostering a legacy of excellence in sport.

Hurdles sensation Lavin hailed the news, saying: "As a qualified health-care professional, there is nobody I would trust more to look after my own medical needs.

DRIVE