On Saturday, Mr Gay Limerick Darren Maloney was crowned Mr Gay Ireland beating out the competition from all accross Ireland.

When asked how it felt to win Mr Gay Ireland, he told I Love Limerick, “It’s such an honour to be the first Limerick, Mr Gay Ireland. I did my thing and it paid off. I did not think when I was up on that stage last year when I was nervous and afraid of putting myself out there so publicly, for being gay, that I would win it. And then I won it, and then I went on to the next stage.”

Moloney has organised fundraisers and campaigned for LGBT+ issues on behalf of Limerick’s LGBT+ community for the past year and he will now go on to represent Ireland in the Mr Gay Europe competition.

Konrad Im, Mr Gay Ireland 2016, announced the result saying “We’ve been keeping a close eye on the work our MGI representatives have been doing all year to help the LGBT+ community here in Ireland. And Darren has particularly shown amazing dedication and passion in his work with different organisations and as Limerick LGBTQ+ Pride Chairperson. We’re honoured to have him represent Ireland at the Mr Gay Europe final in Poland. And look forward to seeing and working with the remaining contestants who will join us for next year’s final”

Talking about his experience and the road ahead, Darren Moloney said “The fact that I’m going to go on to Mr Gay Europe in August is just amazing. I can’t wait for the road ahead, I can’t wait to support St. James’ who provide fantastic services for those living with HIV and Aids. Watch this space, it’s going to be a good year.”

Mr and Ms Gay Limerick were also chosen on the night. Clodagh O’Brien was announced as Ms Gay Limerick and LIT Social studies student Eoin Sexton was chosen as Mr Gay Limerick 2018.