Olympic gold medallist Daniel Wiffen clarifies Down v Armagh debate

James Cox

Daniel Wiffen's Olympic gold medal victory sparked joy both north and south of the border this week, but questions over the swimmer's home county soon emerged.

The 23-year-old won gold in the 800m freestyle in Paris on Tuesday night, and his family were there to celebrate with him.

Down GAA posted on X, formerly Twitter, to congratulate Wiffen: “Congratulations to Olympic champion Daniel Wiffen from Magheralin who won the Gold Medal for Ireland in the pool this evening. A wonderful achievement for Daniel, and joy for his family and the community of Magheralin.”

Armagh were also quick to claim Wiffen.

Armagh GAA posted: “ARMAGH GOES GOLD AGAIN. Here Daniel Wiffen’s twin can be seen watching the Armagh game on Sunday before watching his brother grab Gold at the Paris Olympics today!! Well done to Daniel Wiffen! The pride of Armagh (past pupil of St Pat’s Armagh) & Ireland along with our county players.”

Wiffen's family are from the village of Magheralin. While it is in Co Down, it is right at the border with Co Armagh.

It seems Wiffen and his father have now clarified his home county.

Jonathan Wiffen told BBC Ulster: "My daughters are saying there's a big debate. The postcode for our house is County Armagh, although the village is in Co Down. The boys went to school in Armagh so they consider themselves County Armagh."

Meanwhile, Wiffen said his gold medal is another win for Armagh after their All-Ireland success.

“What can we say? We’re All-Ireland champions and Olympic gold medallists. What a great county."