Offaly girl crafts unique tribute to boxer Gráinne Walsh

A nine-year-old Offaly girl's creative tribute to Gráinne Walsh was rewarded in a special way when the Tullamore boxer recently paid a visit to her home to say thank you.

For the 'design a wooden spoon' competition at the recent Tullamore Show, Ballinamere's Zoe Brennan was inspired to create a wooden spoon recreation of her sporting hero Gráinne.

Having received a message from Zoe's father, John, about his daughter's creation, the Irish elite boxing champion called to the family home to see and sign the artistic work.

In a social media post, the Paris Olympian said receiving the message about Zoe's wooden spoon was "one of the most unique things I have ever heard, but I was so humbled".

"I called out to the family today to see it in person, sign it, and leave some Team Ireland gifts," Gráinne wrote.

"Moments like this are what I will look back on in years to come and cherish the memories of inspiring a child".

In a note to Zoe, Gráinne wrote, "I am honoured you used me as inspiration for your wooden spoon design. It really made me smile, so thank you. Never give up on something you believe in!"

In her role as a Dare to Believe ambassador, Gráinne had previously visited Ballinamere National School to give the pupils a talk on her sporting journey to date.

Earlier this week, Gráinne and the other Team Ireland boxers, including Daingean's Brian Kennedy flew to Sheffield for a multi-nations training camp ahead of the World Boxing Championships which are being held in Liverpool in September.