Flying the Flag - Gemma Whelan represents Ireland at the Deaflympics in Tokyo

Kinsale Community School is immensely proud to send our very best wishes to former student Gemma Whelan, who begins her races tomorrow at the 25th Deaflympics in Tokyo.

Gemma, who graduated from KCS in 2024, has already made history on the world stage. Last Saturday, she had the incredible honour of carrying the Irish flag at the Deaflympics Opening Ceremony, a moment of national pride and a testament to her remarkable achievements.

A trailblazer in Irish sport, Gemma is Cork’s first Deaf female swimmer to compete at the Games, only the seventh Irish female swimmer ever to participate, and the 11th Deaflympian from Cork. Her journey to Tokyo reflects years of hard work, dedication, and resilience.

Since graduating, Gemma has begun her studies in Biological and Biomedical Science at Trinity College Dublin, where she was awarded a prestigious Sports Scholarship. During her years at Kinsale Community School, Gemma balanced her academic commitments with an intensive daily training schedule at Dolphin Swimming Club, where she has trained since 2016.

Gemma first represented Ireland at the World Deaf Youth Games in São Paulo, Brazil, competing in seven events and securing her qualification for the Deaflympics. From her days in the classrooms and corridors of KCS to the international sporting arena, Gemma continues to inspire us all. Her story is a shining example of what can be achieved through passion, perseverance, and self-belief.

Everyone at Kinsale Community School is cheering her on. We wish Gemma the very best of luck in her races in Tokyo —We couldn’t be prouder of her incredible achievement.