IFA to sponsor games
President John Dillon said the IFA was proud to support the games with a contribution of €85,000, the equivalent of 1 for each of its members.
The association is sponsoring the bowling event, which will be held between June 20 and 29 at Leisureplex in Blanchardstown, Co Dublin.
Mr Dillon said he was sure that farm families throughout Ireland wish the event every success, and on their behalf he was delighted to make such a commitment.
"It marks our recognition of the tremendous support shown by all sections of Irish society to the farming community, especially during the foot and mouth crisis in 2001," he said.
The Special Olympics World Summer Games, which will be held outside the US for the first time next year, will involve 7,000 participating athletes from over 160 countries, with an expected 40,000 plus supporters and 2,000 international media.
"Many IFA members are already actively participating as volunteers for the event, or as host families within their own communities. I encourage additional members to become actively involved through the Support an Athlete fundraising programme, or as a volunteer at the games especially at the IFA-sponsored bowling event."
2003 Special Olympics CEO Mary Davis welcomed the IFA sponsorship and support. "The support of farmers and their families through the IFA will make a significant contribution to ensuring the success of the whole event next year," she said.
