IRISH BOXING coach Billy Walsh was overjoyed with emotion as he received his hometown ’s greatest honour yesterday when he was named a Freeman of Wexford for his success in and around the boxing ring.
Hundreds of people descended on Wexford Opera House to witness the historic event following a reception at Wexford Arts Centre. There was a celebratory atmosphere in the town as Wexford St.Patrick’s Fife & Drum Band led Mr. Walsh, local councillors and hundreds of local people in a parade through Cornmarket, North Main St. and up Rowe St. to Wexford Opera House on High St. shortly before 4 p.m., where he was cheered by people lining the street.
The sun was out and there was bunting and a guard of honour from members of local boxing clubs for the local hero as he arrived at the opera house to a thunderous standing ovation.
Olympic gold winner Michael Carruth travelled to help celebrate the momentous event, as did London 2012 Olympian Adam Nolan and President of the Irish Amateur Boxing association Tommy Murphy.
Mr. Walsh, head coach with the Irish Amateur Boxing Association’s Elite High Performance Unit, helped steer Ireland to seven medals at the 2008 and 2012 Olympics in which the country won seven medals in total.
Accompanied by his wife Christine, three children and parents, Mr. Walsh appeared overcome with the emotion of the day at times.
Legendary presenter Jimmy Magee spoke of Mr. Walsh’s success as a boxer, winning seven national senior boxing titles.
Billy Walsh told The Echo yesterday was the greatest day of his life.
For the full story see this week’s printed edition of the paper.
