Not even heart surgery could keep Claire from competing at Games

THE uplifting stories at these Special Olympics continue to multiply. Another came to light at the RDS yesterday as Ireland’s female rhythmic gymnasts paraded their haul of medals and ribbons after the awards ceremony.

Ten golds, 10 silvers, seven bronze and three ribbons was the tally for the six competitors, with Eithne Gormley’s five gold medals being the pick of a very impressive bunch.

Standing amidst the coaches, athletes, family members and well-wishers was little 16-year-old Claire McNamara, an athlete from Crecora in Co Limerick.