Newtownards swimmer Bethany Firth, has won a gold medal in the 4x100m freestyle team relay at the Paralympic Games in Tokyo.
In 2016 she took part in the IPC Swimming European Open Championships in Funchal, Portugal, where she won her first European titles ahead of the Rio 2016 Paralympic Games. In addition, Bethany also broke world records in the 100m and 200m freestyle.
Bethany went on to leave Rio with a golden trio and added a world record in the 100m backstroke for good measure. She was Great Britain’s most decorated athlete from the 2016 Paralympics.
Congratulating the swimmer First Minister Paul Givan said: “This is Bethany’s fifth gold medal – an amazing total which further cements her status as one of the best athletes Northern Ireland has ever produced. Even more remarkable, this gold came the day after a silver medal win in the 200m freestyle. These tremendous accomplishments don’t come easily, and are no doubt built on countless hours of training and dedication.
“With more events yet to come for Bethany, and her fellow Paralympians, we’ll be applauding their progress back home.”
Deputy First Minister Michelle O’Neill added: “Bethany is a world-class sportswoman and a real inspiration to aspiring athletes. I am so pleased that she continues to excel and is adding to what is a remarkable sporting legacy.
“This is a fantastic day for Bethany, her family and coaches. They should be rightly proud of everything she has achieved.
“I wish Bethany, and all our Paralympians, continued success in the remainder of the Games.”
