Shane McLaughlin faces the possibility of missing out on competing in an international athletics meeting in Berlin for one of the worst reason's imaginable. The Paralympic hopeful from Co. Monaghan had his carbon fibre blade stolen over the weekend.
The blade was taken from his car while it was parked outside his house. He has asked for those that have taken the leg to simply return it. The leg costs over €18,000 and is custom fit for him and worthless to anyone else.
Carbon Fibre Paralympic Blade Stolen . Please help to have returned to owner. RT See https://t.co/EmPqX9fw55 pic.twitter.com/4uJ70eXiiO
— An Garda Síochána (@GardaTraffic) June 6, 2015
He is due to compete in the shot put and discus throw in the Berlin Open, an international paralympic competition, which runs from 19-21 June. He hopes to make the Paralympic team for next year and missing out on this tournament could effect the 42 year old's chances.
The disappointment felt by McLaughlin was evident when speaking to LMFM this morning when he confirmed that he was considering quitting the sport in the aftermath of the despicable theft.
Gardai have asked those with information to contact Monaghan Garda station on (047) 77200 or the Garda confidential line on 1800 666 111.
