Team Leinster kick off Special Olympics bid
TEAM Leinster got a taste of things to come when 35 athletes from Co Louth recently attended the regional launch of the Special Olympics at Tallaght stadium.
With just days to go until the games, 276 athletes from across the Leinster region were invited to the impressive stadium, while their fellow athletes from Meath, Offaly, Laois, Kilkenny, Wexford, Carlow and Kildare also attended the launch.
Athletes who will be taking part in football during the Ireland Games, were given a fantastic opportunity as the event drew to a close. Kevin Kilbane along with a number of Off the Ball representatives, gave the athletes a crash course in shooting skill.
A football match proceeded. Kevin was put through his paces as the athletes ran circles around him and his teammates.
The MC for the night was Colm McAree, who will also be one of the
MCs at the Games in June. Some aspects of his speech were lost to the deafening sounds of cheers and applause from the excited Ireland Games Leinster athletes.
Jenna Carty, a basketball athlete from Wexford, was invited on stage to give some inspirational words and advice. She described being picked to represent Leinster at the last Ireland Games:
“I was excited but a bit nervous”, she said, “However there was no need to be nervous as everyone was nice and friendly.”
This attitude was encapsulated at yesterday’s launch. The friendliness of all involved at the event, illustrates the atmosphere that will permeate through the Games venues in June.
Mick and Dusty from Irelands Got Talent, arrived to entertain the athletes and guests. The dancing duo received an excited response from the crowd.
After a few encouraging words from Leinster sporting legend Shane Lowry, the athletes, coaches and guests were invited outside to the stands for a photo opportunity.
The Leinster region head of delegation, Carolyn Jones also took to the stage, advising the athletes to “do their best and have a brilliant time”. Her statement mirrors the consensus adopted by all athletes, to do their very best and enjoy the participation, rather than concentrating on the bronze, silver or gold medals.
1,600 inspiring athletes will storm the Dublin venues to participate in 13 sports this summer. Launches similar to this one is Munster, will take place across the country. They will demonstrate the energy and excitement building as the countdown accelerates towards the event.
Special Olympics Ireland would like to extend an invitation to the people of Ireland, to come visit the Games in June. The largest sporting event in Ireland in 2018 will run from Thursday 14th until Sunday 17th of June. This family friendly event is completely free and take place in venues all across Dublin. For more information please visit www.irelandgames.ie.