Career
She was promoted second from her first-round pool and again from her semi-final, losing both times to the Hungarian Erna Bogen-Bogáti. Neligan reached the final of the European Championship three years in succession. She started fencing with Leon "Punch" Bertrand and made little progress until, in a fit of inspiration, Bertrand decided to adapt her strong physique to the requirements of the Italian foil.
From that moment an ugly ducking was transformed into a swan.
She used to say that "Punch" was the only master who could have turned a carthorse into a racehorse. Tall and athletic, she had a boisterous nature and enormous determination.
Using her reach to dominate her opponents, she became know for making progressive attacks covering the length of the piste.