Laura Jane makes a splash

THE public face of Special Olympics 2003 that has been smiling triumphantly from advertisement posters for several weeks was never more radiant as Laura Jane Dunne became the first Irish athlete to stand on the presentation podium at the National Aquatic Centre yesterday.

A colourful ribbon with a special achievement award attached was draped over her shoulders after she had finished fourth in her event and her joy was unconfined.

The special aura that enveloped her support group was just as dazzling.