Young Sports Star of the Year Finalist: Fitzgerald stars on the world stage

At just 17, Mullagh girl Casey Fitzgerald enjoyed international success when she won two gold medals at the Para Powerlifting World Championships in Dubai last August – and she followed up with another medal haul at 2024 championships at the same venue. Coached by Bryan Foy from Club Active in Kells, Casey’s dedication was rewarded as she excelled on the big stage. Casey, who turned 18 last October, has been powerlifting since late 2021.

Her first competition was in November 2022 in the national Powerlifting Championships in Clontarf, where she picked up three gold medals, one silver, earned a Personal Best (60kg), was first in the junior category and picked up a rookie debut first place award. At the World Championships in Dubai last summer, she came first in her weight category of under 73kg and first for overall weight lifted.

Entering the Seniors category just for experience, she excelled and finished in third place. In March, the 2024 World Championships took place in Dubai again and she took two more gold medals - first in her weight category (under 73kg) as well as first place in the overall weight category.

The inspiring athlete also celebrated a new PB, lifting an astonishing 78kg. On her website, caseyfitzgerald.ie, Casey outlines the challenges she faces and how powerlifting has helped her in so many ways. “I was diagnosed with Spastic Diplegia Cerebral Palsy when I was just two years of age. This type of cerebral palsy affects my lower limbs and prohibits me from walking and standing,” she writes.

“I've spent most my life confined to a wheelchair...but I've never let this stop me from reaching my highest potential. Since I have begun powerlifting I have gained more confidence than I could ever imagine! My friends and family have each seen a huge change in my personality that has only begun to shine since my first training session.

“Before I began training I suffered with my mental health, I felt as if I didn't have a place amongst my peers. As if I was holding everyone back. When I now look back on those times I don't even recognise that upset girl with those horrible feelings, my training has brought me so much happiness. I cannot recommend exercise enough to work on yourself physically and mentally.”