Buncrana golfer Oliver Doherty tees up for Special Olympics Ireland Games
The Games will bring together more than 1,200 athletes across 12 sports, making it the largest inclusive sporting event of the year
Buncrana golfer Oliver Doherty is preparing to represent Ulster at the Special Olympics Ireland Games, taking place in Dublin from 18-21 June.
The Games will bring together more than 1,200 athletes across 12 sports, making it the largest inclusive sporting event of the year.
For Oliver, a two-time international medallist, the upcoming Games mark another milestone in a lifelong journey in sport. He won gold at the 2003 Special Olympics World Games in Dublin, followed by silver in Shanghai in 2007 - achievements that reflect decades of dedication to golf.
Having first picked up a club at just 10 years old, Oliver quickly rose through the ranks. By 14, he was named junior golfer of the year in Buncrana, and by 16 had achieved an impressive handicap of two. Now aged 50, he is determined to show that passion and perseverance in sport have no age limit:
“I just love playing golf - it’s something I’ve always enjoyed and something I want to keep improving at no matter how old I am,” said Oliver. “To be competing again at a national level means a lot to me. The Games are about doing your best, meeting people and enjoying the experience, and I’m really looking forward to getting out there and giving it my best.”
Oliver has been training in the lead-up to the Games with PGA professional Michael Stanford, who has extensive experience coaching Special Olympics athletes and previously led Team Ireland at the World Games in Berlin.
“Working with these athletes is incredibly rewarding - their commitment and willingness to learn is something special,” said Michael. “Every session is about building confidence as well as skill, and Oliver brings a huge amount of experience and determination to his game.”
Stanford, who has coached golfers of all abilities for over three decades, has spoken previously about how working with Special Olympics athletes has shaped his coaching approach, placing greater emphasis on demonstration, communication and connection to help players reach their full potential.
Shaun Cassidy, Regional Director of Special Olympics Ulster, said Oliver’s journey reflects the spirit of the Games:
“The Ireland Games are a celebration of ability, determination and community. Oliver’s story is a perfect example of that spirit in action - our Ulster athletes have worked incredibly hard to get here, and we are immensely proud of each and every one of them.”