The Fagan family compete in RTÉ’s gruelling challenge show

A FAMILY of super-fit sports fans took part in the latest episode of RTÉ’s gruelling show, Ireland’s Fittest Family and were just seconds away from qualifying for the quarter-finals.

Stephen Fagan, who’s an intercounty referee for the GAA, competed in the toughest television show in Ireland alongside his three children – Ava (15) and 18-year-old twins Cody and Maia. While the two girls are passionate about playing football for their local club in Baltinglass, Cody is an expert kayaker, who is a member of the Irish freestyle kayaking team.

“Literally thousands of families apply to go on this show and we were one of only 16 families who were picked. I suppose we were a little bit different in that I’m a referee and Cody is into kayaking, while the girls play football for their club. We're all naturally fit because of the sports we’re involved with, but we also run and go to the gym, too,” said Stephen.

Stephen and his super-fit kids were coached by camogie star Anna Geary, taking part in the gruelling Raft Rage challenge and High & Dry before being knocked out by the Flahertys in the eliminator round. The programme was screened on RTÉ at the weekend and was the second in the current season of the highly-popular show.

“It was a fantastic experience, but it was very tough. We were black and blue after it! It was great to take part in it. It was disappointing for the kids to be pipped by just two or three seconds, but it was a great experience. I’d definitely recommend other families to enter,” said Stephen.