Fingal Community Gathers to Celebrate and Support Local Special Olympics Athletes Ahead of Ireland Games
More than 100 athletes, families, coaches, volunteers, and community representatives came together on 10 February at the Carnegie Court Hotel to celebrate and wish well the Fingal athletes who will compete in the Special Olympics Ireland Games this June.
More than 100 athletes, families, coaches, volunteers, and community representatives came together on 10 February at the Carnegie Court Hotel to celebrate and wish well the Fingal athletes who will compete in the Special Olympics Ireland Games this June.
The event celebrated over 50 athletes, coaches, and chaperones from 13 Special Olympics clubs across Fingal, who will represent the region across 10 sports at this year’s Games—the first national Special Olympics event since 2018 following the Covid‑19 interruption.
The evening featured speeches from the Mayor of Fingal, Cllr Tom O’Leary, the Chief Executive of Fingal County Council, AnnMarie Farrelly, and the CEO of Special Olympics Ireland, Karen Coventry, each commending the athletes for their commitment, resilience, and spirit.
In his remarks, the Mayor of Fingal paid tribute to the dedication shown by athletes in their preparation:
“Each of you has shown what true commitment looks like — the early mornings, the late evenings, the perseverance and teamwork. You remind us that excellence is not just about medals; it’s about courage, friendship, and belief in your own potential.”
Speaking on behalf of Fingal County Council, Chief Executive AnnMarie Farrelly emphasised the Council’s strong support for Special Olympics in the region:
“Special Olympics clubs in Fingal are places of inclusion, joy, and ambition. Fingal County Council is proud to back these clubs through sports grants, volunteer recognition, and practical support that strengthens participation year after year.”
The Chief Executive also highlighted Fingal’s contribution of €75,000 over the past two years towards the delivery of the Special Olympics Ireland Games, which will be hosted in Fingal this summer. She further noted the pride in Council staff who have volunteered to support the Games.
The CEO of Special Olympics Ireland thanked Fingal County Council for its leadership and praised the athletes for their dedication while calling for the athletes in the audience to recite the Special Olympics Athlete Oath “Let me win, but if I cannot win, let me be brave in the attempt”.
The evening closed with warm applause, following a panel discussion with an athlete, chaperone and the Head of Delegation of the team. Families, clubs, and supporters across Fingal now look forward to cheering them on in June.