| Each of the children from special schools as far apart as Newry, Enniskillen and Londonderry received a small gift and some proudly displayed their medals.
The SELB’s Dr Clare Mangan, Head of Children and Young People’s Services across both Board areas, described the event as “a celebration of our children and young people” while joint committee chair, Kay McCaul, said she welcomed the competitors “with great pleasure and great humility – we are all very proud of you.”
Sue Hogg, vice-chair of the committee, added: “This is a special event for special people who have done something outstanding.”
She praised and thanked the teachers and coaches who had worked with the young people, sentiments echoed by Jackie Fullerton.
The BBC broadcaster said: “It’s a privilege to be here and, as well as congratulating the winners and their coaches, I’d like to encourage everyone who has taken part to continue pursuing their dreams.
“It’s a special thing to be good at sport and I’m sure that, for each of you, the Special Olympics will hold many great memories.”
One of those who met Jackie was Emma Jamison, a pupil at the Erne Special School in Enniskillen, who will be travelling to China later this year to take part in the Special Olympics World Games. |
