Medal Count

TEAM Ireland proved they were true champions with a total of 305 medals. They won 104 gold medals, 106 silver and 95 bronze.

The Irish successes continued right up to the final competition day in the Special Olympics Games.

Swimmer Laura Jane Dunne from Dundrum, Dublin won gold, her third in the 200 metre freestyle competition.

Shane O’Dwyer (14) from Clonsilla, Dublin, claimed bronze in the long jump.

What was most rewarding of all, however, was seeing the medal winners hugged by their teammates afterwards.

And just seeing 19-year-old Laura light up with happiness ever time she won was also worth its weight in gold. Each day Laura emerged tired but victorious from the big pool but was always recharged the next day.

Gymnast Eithne Gormley from Donabate, Co Dublin, at 55-years-old proved her agility again and again. She got five gold medals for rhythmic gymnastics and really couldn’t believe she did so well.

Team Ireland’s youngest contestant was 10-year-old Bryan Doran who won a bronze and gold medal in athletes.

Their oldest member at 68 years was Molly Kehoe from New Ross, Co Wexford who earned a participation medal for coming fourth in pitch and putt.

Those who did not achieve a medal but achieved a personal best were also extremely proud of themselves.

All though the games Team Ireland members supported each other in their disappointments as well as their achievements.

Everybody pulled together and nothing more could be expected of them.