Sixteen-year-old Siún Ní Choistealbha from Clogherhead is a young sailor with big ambitions and has just been selected to represent Ireland in the ILCA 4 Worlds in Los Angeles in July, the only female sailor representing Ireland at this event. 

It’s a fantastic achievement but she receives no funding for her sport and is seeking sponsors to help her achieve her dreams of competing for her country in America.

Siún bought her first boat with her communion money when she was just eight years old and recently took a part time job to help with the cost, as her two younger brothers Tomás (13) and Paidí (10) also compete at a high level, competing in the Topper Worlds in the Netherlands in July.

Senator Alison Comyn has taken up the cause and is hoping to get a fundraising campaign going to get Siún on her way to LA.

“I’ve met with Siún and her wonderful parents Julie and Padraig, and she is such a bright and talented young woman, but they are meeting stumbling blocks at every angle to try and fund her sport,” says the Fianna Fáil Senator.

“Her dream is to represent Ireland at the Olympics but in order to do so she needs to get maximum exposure to international events and performance training.

“Sailing is sometimes seen as the preserve of the wealthy, but not always, and Siún has a natural talent, and sponsorship would help her to achieve her dreams.”

Some of Siún’s notable achievements to date include: 

* 2024- ILCA 4 national ranking - 4th female/ 9th overall 

* 2024 ILCA end of season event- 1st female/ 3rd overall 

* 2023- UK Topper Nationals Gold fleet qualification 

* 2023- Topper Worlds, Gold fleet qualification  

“Everyone, especially in Clogherhead and Greenhills where she is in TY, is so proud of her achievements, but she really needs sponsorship, maybe from local businesses, to help her, and I will also explore every state or European grant that might help, as well as appeal to Irish Sailing for assistance,” Senator Comyn added.

“Siún and her family’s dedication and passion are undoubted, but in order to reach Olympic standard and the funding that accompanies that, she needs to compete, and to compete she needs funding; it’s a vicious cycle.”

If you are interested in providing sponsorship, please contact Julie Ui Choistealbha on 087 8770600 or email juichoistealbha@gmail.com.