Club makes it a very special Christmas

‘YOU are worthy and deserving’ was the message the Dundalk Special Olympics’ Committee wanted to relay to their athletes along with lovely Christmas gifts over the festive season.

Due to restrictions and concerns for the safety of the vulnerable athletes, the annual Christmas party could not go ahead and the dancing, dressing-up and receiving gifts from Santa had to be postponed.

Like everyone else, Dundalk Special Olympics Club had a trying year, with all training and competitions cancelled. Much-needed physical activity and social interaction with its athletes had to continue via online platforms.

Coaches and volunteers kept in touch with each other and athletes throughout the pandemic, while working behind the scenes to ensure their return to the club would be in a safe manner. They set up fun challenges for the athletes like ‘Shooting the hoop’ and ‘Golf skills’, which made for some great entertainment.

Committee member Trish Farrell said: ‘Our chairperson, Ailish McArdle, has worked tirelessly at keeping great communication going, ensuring coaches, volunteers and committee members alike take online courses presented by Special Olympics Ireland to benefit the athletes for a safe return.’

Dundalk Special Olympics Club currently has 44 active members training with them and the Dundalk town and community offered great support and ensured a very successful fund-raising year.

‘This support enabled us to treat our athletes and volunteers with lovely gifts and Shop Local vouchers. Thank you Dundalk!’ enthused fund-raising co-ordinator Tessa van Heerden.

Concluding on a positive note, Dundalk Special Olympics Club chairperson Ailish McArdle said: ‘When the vaccine arrives and it is safe to do so, we are ready and prepared to return to training.’