WATCH: The best female sporting talent on Leeside is celebrated at the Evening Echo awards

Sat, 26 Jan, 2019 - 08:30

John O'Shea

WORLD rowing champion, Sanita Purspure, was a worthy winner of the 12th Evening Echo Ladies’ Sport Star of the Year Award, which was presented to her at a glamourous function in the Ambassador Hotel.

The Ballincollig resident had an incredible 2018 and captured a gold medal at the Rowing World Championships in Bulgaria.

Camogie player Gemma O’Connor was the recipient of the Special Achievement award, for winning her 11th All-Star and ninth All-Ireland medal. She now has the most All-Stars in camogie history.

Gemma O'Connor (second from left) with Capt Gavin Looney, Sharon Bones and Bernie Hart. Picture: Jim Coughlan.

The Hall Of Fame inductee was Phil Allen, of St Anne’s Pitch and Putt club.

Phil Allen with family, Vincent Allen, Mollie, Regina and Ken Allen. Picture: Jim Coughlan.

There was a lively panel discussion between Anna Geary, Mary White, and Jacqui Hurley, on the future of women’s sport.

Mary White, Lizzie Lee and Anna Geary. Picture: Jim Coughlan.

“This event showcases all that is good about women’s sport in Cork, which is unquestionably strong,” said sports editor, John McHale. “An event such as this, once again, hits home the very high standard of female sporting athletes we have on Leeside.”