Big welcome for special Olympians

Athletes were given a taste of stardom today when they paraded around Dublin’s Croke Park stadium ahead of the summer’s Special Olympics.

Athletes were given a taste of stardom today when they paraded around Croke Park ahead of the summer’s Special Olympics.

Gymnasts, swimmers and basketball players from across Ireland were among those applauded as they entered the venue for this year’s World Games.

Some 7,000 athletes with disabilities will take part in the multi-nation event in just over a month.

Bertie Ahern said it had been an honour seeing the sports men and women prepare for the games.

Speaking at the launch of Team Ireland he said: “In just over a month’s time this stadium will be alive like it never has been before for the opening of the games.

“It’s been an honour seeing the preparations.

“The next time I see the teams will be on the opening night.

“I will look forward to that, it will be a really smashing atmosphere when you come out.”

The event has been marred by controversy surrounding the announcement that contestants from regions affected by the SARSvirus have been asked not to come.

The Government revealed last week that it was asking teams from China, Chinese Taipei, Singapore, Hong Kong and the Philippines not to travel to the competition.

But the Taoiseach said he hoped recent setbacks would not affect the games.

“Even though we have had a few hiccups we will hopefully get over those,” he told the athletes.

He thanked the competitors, coaches, volunteers and parents for the work they have put into planning the event.

“Medals are important but participation is far more important,” he added.

Television personality Marty Whelan told the crowds at the stadium: “Today is all about the athletes who are going to be doing us proud in a few weeks’ time.

“They have put many many weeks of hard work into it and we want to celebrate their achievements.”

Aine Lawlor, 19, said she would be competing in a number of athletics events, including the 400-metres, the long jump and relay.

“I’ve been practising ever since I was 16 but I never thought I would get to this level,” she said.

“All my friends are really excited for me.”

Basketball player Mary Donlan, 49, of Portarlington, said: “Today was brilliant.

“It was great hearing everyone clapping for us when we walked out.

“I started playing basketball as a teenager and I can’t wait to play in the Olympics.”

Warren Tate, 24, of Co Dublin, said he would also be competing in the basketball event.

“I’ve been playing since I was three-years-old,” he said.

“We always have a laugh whenever we play together. It’s a dream to come here and compete.”

Team Ireland, which is made up of 438 athletes, will be the second-largest team at the event after the USA delegation.

They will compete in sports such as athletics, gymnastics, golf, kayaking and table tennis.

Towns and cities across Ireland will host athletes from different countries when they arrive in the country.