The Slieve Russell Hotel played host to a jubilant homecoming for golfing star Leona Maguire this evening (Wednesday).


Leona was part of the victorious Europe team for the Solheim Cup playing in Ohio, where they defeated the America team, and has now firmly made her mark on the sporting world stage after her stunning performance in the biggest competition in Ladies professional world golf.
Supporters, family, friends and neighbours descended on the Cavan hotel where Ballyconnell golfer Leona has mastered her game over the past number of years.
Leona's delighted mum, Breda, took to social media to thank everyone for their attendance and said: "What an amazing homecoming for Leona this evening – unbelievable support in Ballyconnell, along the roadsides and at the Slieve Russell Hotel and Golf Club.
"Thank you, Susan and Ballyconnell Development Association, Mairead her chauffeur, Gordon and Tony in the Slieve Russell, the Garda escorts, Elaine Cassidy for the fabulous pipe playing, the fire brigade, Joe Finnegan – all those who spoke and paid tribute to Leona [as well as] family, friends, neighbours and everyone who turned out to support us.
"It was an evening Leona and all our family will never forget. Thank you everyone from the bottom of our hearts.”
Breda later tweeted a family picture.

Record-setting Leona was the top points scorer of the week with four wins and one tie, marking the best performance in the history of the competition by a debutante, two wins over world number-one Nelly Korda, the first Irish player to represent Europe in the Solheim Cup, and the only player to play in all five matches from either side in the three-day competition.