American delegate praises opening ceremony

THE Dublin extravaganza in Croke Park has left the organisers of next year’s Olympic Games in Athens with a very difficult act to follow when they create their Opening Ceremony according to a leading Special Olympics official.

Jacky Loube, technical delegate for basketball, who supervises the divisional process, approves the venues and ensures fair play amongst the competing nations, is in Ireland for his fifth Special Olympic World Games and described the opening ceremony as breathtaking.

"We try to create parity among the teams so that the event is a successful event and the athletes build and create self esteem rather than having a win at all costs type of situation.