FOLLOWING SOME heroic performances at the European Boxing Championships in Samokov, Bulgaria last week, Wexford’s Dean Walsh returned to a hero’s welcome on Saturday night as family, friends and well-wishers gathered at Browne’s pub in Bishopswater to celebrate him becoming the first Wexford man to bring home a European boxing medal.
Dean walked away from Bulgaria with a bronze medal having been narrowly defeated by Russian Vitaly Dunaytev in a very close fight. Although the Wexford man was slightly disappointed not to have upgraded the bronze medal to silver or gold, he was blown away by the reception he received from the people of his hometown.
“I’m thrilled to be home,” said Dean, speaking to The Echo. “It was short enough, only eleven days in total, but I was still glad to be back with the family, friends and girlfriend after it all. It all went to plan really until the second last day and I thought I had done enough, but it wasn’t to be. I’m happy enough to come back with a medal though and to have qualified for the World Championships, that’s the main thing.”
Dean was greeted by family and friends at Dublin airport on Sunday and says it was an unforgettable experience.
“Coming home before, I was always at the back when we came in at the airport because I had no medal. It was a great feeling to be up the front with Michael Conlon and Joe Ward and to see all the family waiting for me and the cameras flashing…it was something I’ll never forget. Then when we got back, everyone was really quiet waiting for me in Browne’s and once I got in, it all kicked off. The place went wild.”
For a young man with such considerable talent, Dean’s attitude is truly refreshing and in the Conor McGregor era where a brash and cocky attitude is encouraged, he remains well-grounded and knows what he wants.
“I just want to make the town proud,” he said. “It’s an amazing feeling getting all these messages on Facebook and all that and I just want to keep Wexford on the map. I want to say a massive thank you to everyone who took the time to text me or send messages on Facebook or Snapchat or whatever. Unfortunately I haven’t had the chance to get back to everyone yet, but it really means a lot. Also my sponsors, New Ireland Assurance, Tommy Ryan PVC and Kearney’s Undertakers have been great to me. The level of support has been unbelievable and I couldn’t ask for better.”
Full interview in this week’s Wexford Echo
Dean Walsh arriving at Browne’s of Bishopswater with his bronze medal. Pic: Jim Campbell