PICTURES: Gathering held for Offaly athletes ahead of Summer Games

A send-off gathering took place in Tullamore recently for two Offaly athletes before they departed to compete in the Irish National Special Olympic Games in Dublin.

The event was held in The Bridge House Hotel on Thursday, June 18 and was attended by friends, family and coaches of Tullamore duo Moira Scott and Aidan Bryant who participated in the prestigious competition which ran from June 18-21.

Both athletes train with the Tullamore Special Olympics Sports Club and done Offaly proud at the games with impressive showings in their individual sports.

They both represented Leinster with Moira Scott competing in kayaking marking her third appearance at the event whilst Aidan Bryant took part in the 15 meter swimming kick event.

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Offaly Cathaoirleach Declan Harvey and Offaly TD Carol Nolan also attended the farewell event in Tullamore and offered words of encouragement for the two talented athletes.

Speaking at the gathering, Councillor Harvey said: “We’re here to show support to our two athletes and our athletes from the past are here as well to support them. I’m going to wish them the best of luck and for everyone to give them a big round of applause.”

Deputy Nolan also took the opportunity to wish the two athletes well as she stated: “I wish you both the very, very best of luck, we’re very proud to have athletes representing us and we’re fully behind you.”

The independent TD concluded: “It’s a fantastic achievement to get to where you have and that’s through hard work, dedication and commitment and of course, sacrifice and we’re cognizant of that, we wish you both the best of luck and I’m delighted to be here this morning with you all.”

Photos courtesy of Ger Rogers Photography.