Sailors Ryan Seaton and Matt McGovern get nod for Rio Olympics

The Ballyholme Yacht Club duo, who also represented Ireland at the London 2012 Olympics, are on the crest of a wave after the announcement.

“This will be our second Olympics sailing together and we are looking forward to doing our country proud,” the pair said.

Chief Operating Officer and Performance Manager of RYA NI, Richard Honeyford, added: “This is a great day for Matt and Ryan. Their hard work and dedication over the last number of years has paid off as they have now been officially selected to represent Team Ireland at the Games this Summer.

“At RYA NI we are all very proud of our sailors and we are very excited for a thrilling Summer of competition.”

First Vice President of the Olympic Council of Ireland Willie O’Brien complimented the athletes on their achievements.

“Congratulations to those athletes selected today,” said O’Brien.

“It’s a special day for you and I hope that you will take time to share this moment with your family and friends.”

Each week Team Ireland will expand as Olympic qualification continues and more selections from other sports for Rio 2016 will be announced.

The full list announced for Sailing Ireland is: Annalise Murphy – Laser Radial, Finn Lynch – Laser, Ryan Seaton – 49er, Matt McGovern – 49er, Andrea Brewster – 49erFX.