A six-time champion in the Superbike World Championship, Jonathan Rea’s successes on the racetrack have earned him widespread recognition from the country.Since joining Kawasaki in 2015, Rea has dominated the World Superbike Championship, establishing himself as one of the most dominant racers in the history of the sport.A six-time champion in the Superbike World Championship, Jonathan Rea’s successes on the racetrack have earned him widespread recognition from the country.Since joining Kawasaki in 2015, Rea has dominated the World Superbike Championship, establishing himself as one of the most dominant racers in the history of the sport.
A six-time champion in the Superbike World Championship, Jonathan Rea’s successes on the racetrack have earned him widespread recognition from the country.Since joining Kawasaki in 2015, Rea has dominated the World Superbike Championship, establishing himself as one of the most dominant racers in the history of the sport.

8 sporting icons from Northern Ireland who have inspired us all

By Lyndsey Hodgkinson
Published 1st May 2024, 07:00 BST
Northern Ireland is home to a wealth of sporting talent that shines brightly both locally and internationally

From the football pitch to the boxing ring, these individuals have not only achieved success in their fields but have also inspired generations with their skill and passion for their respective sports.

Here are eight sporting icons from Northern Ireland who have inspired us all.

A trailblazer in the world of athletics, Mary Peters is a constant reminder of the sporting excellence Northern Ireland has to offer. She achieved Olympic glory in 1972, winning the gold in the pentathlon and showcasing her versatility on the global stage. In the same year, she won the BBC Sports Personality of the Year award.Northern Ireland's premier athletics track is named after her and a statue of the sporting icon stands proudly on the outskirts of the track

5. Mary Peters

A trailblazer in the world of athletics, Mary Peters is a constant reminder of the sporting excellence Northern Ireland has to offer. She achieved Olympic glory in 1972, winning the gold in the pentathlon and showcasing her versatility on the global stage. In the same year, she won the BBC Sports Personality of the Year award.Northern Ireland's premier athletics track is named after her and a statue of the sporting icon stands proudly on the outskirts of the track Photo: Tony Hendron

Known as the 'Hurricane', Alex Higgins was a snooker legend, captivating audiences with his playing style and winning two World Snooker Championships.Higgins turned professional at the age of 22 and was also known as the 'People’s Champion' for his popularity and charisma.He is often credited as a factor in snooker’s success as a mainstream televised sport in the 80’s

6. Alex Higgins

Known as the 'Hurricane', Alex Higgins was a snooker legend, captivating audiences with his playing style and winning two World Snooker Championships.Higgins turned professional at the age of 22 and was also known as the 'People’s Champion' for his popularity and charisma.He is often credited as a factor in snooker’s success as a mainstream televised sport in the 80’s Photo: Pacemaker

Born and raised in Magherafelt, Simone Magill has represented Northern Ireland at multiple youth levels throughout her career and made her senior international debut at the age of 15. At 18, Magill made the move from Mid-Ulster F.C to FA Women’s Super League team Everton where she was the first female Northern Irish footballer to sign a full-time contract. She currently plays for Aston Villa.

7. Simone Magill

Born and raised in Magherafelt, Simone Magill has represented Northern Ireland at multiple youth levels throughout her career and made her senior international debut at the age of 15. At 18, Magill made the move from Mid-Ulster F.C to FA Women’s Super League team Everton where she was the first female Northern Irish footballer to sign a full-time contract. She currently plays for Aston Villa. Photo: William Cherry / Press Eye

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