Team Ireland returned on Sunday to a hero’s welcome at Dublin Airport after an incredible campaign at the Special Olympics World Winter Games in Turin.
The team flew back together with Team Partner Aer Lingus, and as they stepped through the arrival gates, a resounding cheer echoed throughout the terminal.
A rush of emotions was felt as tears filled the eyes of athletes, family and friends who were reunited after a trying but thrilling week for Team Ireland’s athletes.
Together, they secured an outstanding 11 medals and four placed finishes, marking this as one of their most successful Games to date.
Historic Firsts
The Games were filled with historic firsts for Team Ireland.
Caolan McConville became the first Irish athlete to compete in Alpine Skiing at the Advanced level, while Lorraine Whelan made the record books by being the first Irish athlete to compete in five international Games.
Additionally, George Fitzgerald made history going from athlete to official and now representing Team Ireland as an Assistant Coach.
“At these Games, history was made,” said Special Olympics Ireland CEO Matt English.
“Everyone at Special Olympics Ireland is so proud of Team Ireland. The results were better than our wildest dreams. I would like to thank the Team Ireland management team and coaches, the many family members and fans who travelled for their support, and our many partners, funders, and sponsors that make participation on a world stage possible.”
Lucy Best’s final bronze medal in the Novice Slalom event was a fitting conclusion to Team Ireland’s campaign, highlighting the determination and skill of the athletes.
Speaking at the slopes on Saturday Lucy’s mother, Jo Best, said “We would like to say as a family that the Special Olympics World Winter Games in Turin have been an amazing success. ”
“It was truly down to amazing athletes and amazing coaches, and amazing results for all the skiers and floorball athletes. We really can’t get over the fact that our skiing athletes have to train on dry mats at dry slopes. They are winning against athletes who have come from around the world, one hundred countries.”
Team Ireland’s floorball team also made a lasting impact, officially receiving their bronze medals following a thrilling 3-0 victory over Switzerland.
The homecoming celebration was a testament to the incredible support Team Ireland received. A total of 72 family members and 39 volunteers travelled with the team, along with partners and supporters, playing a pivotal role in encouraging the athletes every step of the way.
A Powerful Closing Ceremony Message:
The Special Olympics World Winter Games came to an inspiring end with two simultaneous Closing Ceremonies in Sestriere and Turin. Irish athlete and Sargent Shriver Global Messenger Margaret Turley delivered a powerful speech at the Turin event, emphasising inclusion and empowerment:
“Special Olympics has changed my life,” she said to a global audience tuning in on ESPN.
“It has opened a world of friendships, gave me new challenges, and most importantly, provided the encouragement and support that shapes who I am today.”
“Tonight, as we celebrate all of you, I want to leave you with a challenge. Do not let this feeling go to waste when you get home. Bottle it up, and use it for the rest of the year and beyond.”
Team Ireland Medal Achievements:
Gold:
Novice Giant Slalom: Máire Connolly
Novice Giant Slalom: Lucy Best
Advanced Giant Slalom: Caolan McConville
Novice Super G: Lucy Best
Advanced Super G: Caolan McConville
Silver:
Intermediate Giant Slalom: Donal Brennan
Novice Super G: Clive Healy
Bronze:
Novice Giant Slalom: Clive Healy
Novice Super G: Máire Connolly
Novice Slalom: Lucy Best
Floorball: Team Ireland Floorball Team (Damien Kirwan, Frank O’Dwyer, Gavin Bourke, Niall Corcoran, Jack Buckley, James Upton, Joseph Sheehan, James Hunter)
Fourth Place:
Novice Slalom: Clive Healy
Intermediate Slalom: Donal Brennan
Fifth Place:
Advanced Slalom: Caolan McConville
Sixth Place:
Intermediate Super G: Donal Brennan
Further Reading for Sport for Business Members: The Simple Special Power of Volunteering
SPORT FOR BUSINESS PERSPECTIVE
What a brilliant week for all, and with the National Games returning next year after an eight-year break due to Covid, what an excellent opportunity for more to experience the profound sense of purpose from being involved.
WHAT’S UP NEXT?
The Special Olympics clubs up and down the country will be in training this week and every week, making a difference in the lives of athletes and families.
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