Writes Leo McMahon
Nine years old Tommy Coppinger and his many times All Ireland champion father Martin made quite an impression at a recent Road Bowling challenge at Via Fontecasale near Montfeltcino, Italy.
Martin was invited for the friendly challenge against some of Italy’s top road bowlers in October following his success at the European championships in Germany.
Organised by the Piagge Road Bowling Club, Martin came second in the individual challenge to the Italian Bettini played in constant heavy rain. He was also runner up in the doubles event with his Italian partner Subissati.
However, Martin went on to take part in the legendary ‘Bomber Throw Challenge’ in Tavernelle and shattered the record by adding a remarkable 15 metres to the longest distance ever achieved.
According to a comment on Facebook: ‘The crowd was amazed by the Irishman’s power. Coppinger has superhuman strength said one spectator’. His nine years old son Tommy also impressed spectators with his skills in the sport and won a trophy and medal in a fun event for children.
A native of Bantry, Martin Coppinger and his wife Kim (nee O’Connell) reside at Drake’s Point, Crosshaven and have another son Cal. Martin is a four times All Ireland senior road bowling champion and current Munster champion.
On a proposal by Cllr Audrey Buckley (FF), a vote of congratulations was passed to Martin and Tommy at a recent meeting of the county council’s Carrigaline Municipal District (MD).
Comments