TAOISEACH BRIAN Cowen has sent his best wishes to Dublin boxer Kenny Egan in advance of the fighter's light heavyweight Olympic final in Beijing tomorrow morning.
A spokesman for Mr Cowen said he wished the Dublin boxer "all the best" ahead of the bout.
In a statement Mr Cowen also warmly congratulated Paddy Barnes and Darren Sutherland on their achievements in winning bronze medals in Beijing.
"Darren's performance inside and outside of the ring, while representing Ireland, was exceptional and something his family can be very proud of," said the Taoiseach.
Mr Cowen added: "To win an Olympic medal is a highlight of any career and Paddy can be proud of how well he fought to reach the semi-final."
President Mary McAleese also congratulated Sutherland and Barnes on "their magnificent results" in winning medals.
She also wished Kenny Egan every success in the final, said a spokeswoman for the President.
Minister for Sport Martin Cullen said Egan's comprehensive semi-final "victory was achieved with class and style. He was relentless in pursuit of victory."
Labour Party TD for Dublin Mid West Joanna Tuffy said Egan recorded a magnificent achievement and "Neilstown can be rightly proud of his record.
"Kenny is a role model for youngsters in the area and his willingness to lend his support to community events in Neilstown is a great example," said Ms Tuffy.