Mr McCann is a mechanical engineering student at UCD and is a recipient of the prestigious Ad Astra Elite Sports Scholarship in athletics, a scholarship programme reserved for exceptional sportsmen and women.

In addition to his studies, he competes internationally for Ireland in middle distance running, making his senior championship debut at the European Athletics Indoors in Poland in March 2021. His outstanding performance at the Golden Spike event in the Czech Republic in May 2021 moved him into contention for Olympic qualification.

Mr McCann’s first block of races in 2022 commences this week with two mile races in New York and culminates in an effort to achieve an Irish record for the 1000m at the American Track League Meet in Louisville, Kentucky, on 12 February.

Philip Lee advises a number of public and private entities in the health and sport sectors and previously produced the Philip Lee Sport Report which provided insight into the levels of interest and participation in sport in Ireland.

Banking and finance partner Louis Burke said: “We are delighted to be able to assist Luke and to invest in emerging talent. Together with government assistance, corporate support is essential for increased participation and higher standards in sport. We wish Luke every success on his Olympic journey.”