William Loughnane (Clooney-Quin, Clare) had the performance of a lifetime today, winning a total of seven medals in artistic gymnastics, six gold medals and one bronze medal in vault.
Fellow team mate, Paddy Dennigan (Celbridge) added to the silverware coming all round second in artistic gymnastics.
Kildare’s second medal of the day came from horse man, Stephen Roche (Kilmead) who won a gold medal in the arena.
Ireland secured two bronze medals, three personal bests and three ribbons on the track.
Sarah Meade (Dublin) came third in softball while Tony Lynagh (Sligo) kept a steady pace in the 800m walk, powering into third place, bringing Ireland’s athletics team its second Bronze medal of the day.
Young Tyrone athlete, Sammy Jo Sweeney, achieved her fastest times yet, sprinting 100m in 17:39 seconds and recording a personal best in long jump.
Teenage Tipperary athlete Eddie Ryan sprinted to the finish in the 100m race, finishing fourth and winning a ribbon.
4,000 Chinese school children cheered on the green vests on the track in Shanghai Stadium.
Ireland’s first Gold of the day in swimming was won by David Deane (Kimmage) in the 25m backstroke and his team mate, Kilkenny’s Jane Saunders, took Silver in the same event.
Elsewhere a fine individual display by Galway athlete Sile Nic Niociall ensured another Gold medal to add to the collection in bowling.
Probably the highlight of the day was the men’s basketball final at Jiatong Gymnasium where the Irish Team faced a very impressive Russian outfit.
In a keenly fought contest, the Irish team were cheered on by a huge contingent of Irish volunteers and family members who were there to lend their support.
Behind 11-2 at the break, the Irish fought back admirably and scored some fantastic baskets.
Unfortunately, the clock ran out but the Irish team secured Silver for their country with the final score resting at 17-11 to Russia.
