Olympic boxing silver medallist Kenny Egan has announced that he will run for political office with Fine Gael in the local elections later this year.
Rumours had been rampant that Egan, who hung up his gloves last year, had been toying with the idea of joining the Fine Gael ticket in his native Clondalkin - where his popularity is massive - and that was confirmed in a press conference this morning.
Speaking to the assembled media, Egan said: "My motto is and always has been to 'Keep it Real' and I intend to follow this on my political journey."
"I am running because I want to make a difference in my local community", Egan added. "I want to do the very best for Clondalkin and I believe I can achieve that with Fine Gael. As with my sporting career, I have always aimed for success and, if elected, I will bring the same energy to working for my community."
Minister for Children and TD for Dublin mid West Frances Fitzgerald said Egan would be a "fantastic addition" to Fine Gael.
Can Kenny Egan bring his combative nature to the Irish political arena? One thing is for certain; there's no medal for second place in this race.
