BY NUALA MCALOON

Eleven-year-old Rauraí McDermott, from Killesher, described as 'the most enthusiastic and courageous young man you could have the privilege to meet' has been named the Northern Ireland 'Spirit of Sport' runner-up for 2008.

The prestigious Award was presented to the Primary Six pupil who suffers from cerebral palsy, at The Lady Taverners annual Spring lunch at the Europa Hotel, Belfast.

Aimed at recognising and acknowledging young people with disabilities, between the ages of six and 16, the ceremony sought to reward those who demonstrated a positive attitude to life through sport.

And for everyone who knows young Rauraí, from Keenaghan, a pupil at St. Mary's Primary School, Killesher, there was no question that he was an obvious candidate for nomination.

Rauraí was diagnosed with a form of cerebral palsy called, 'Hemiplegia' which affects one side of the body. He was given a new lease of life in 2000