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REMARKS BY PRESIDENT MARY McALEESE AT THE OPENING OF THE SPECIAL OLYMPICS IRELAND NATIONAL GAMES

REMARKS BY PRESIDENT MARY McALEESE AT THE OPENING OF THE SPECIAL OLYMPICS IRELAND NATIONAL GAMES ON THURSDAY 18 JUNE 1998

Firstly, let me say how happy I am to be with you today for this very colourful opening ceremony. The Special Olympics National Games is ‘very’ special for me this year – because it is my first year as President – and my first opportunity to become involved with the Special Olympics since becoming President. Looking at the very impressive Parade of Athletes here this evening – at the many who will compete in the different events between now and Sunday – I have to say it was a joy to behold so many young people who are here to do their very best – to win if they can – but most to all be make a tremendous effort. That spirit is very much in keeping with the Special Olympic oath, which is

 

“Let me win

But if I cannot win

Let me be brave

In the attempt”

 

- All of us know of the rich personal satisfaction we get from being involved in sport. The Special Olympics – which caters for all abilities – gives continuing opportunities to develop physical fitness – to enjoy the fun of participating in the different activities – and to join with others in friendship and sportsmanship. That is what being an athlete all is about – and why physical education is given such a high priority in our ‘special’ schools.

- Games are really about competition – about taking the opportunity to show your skill, courage and ability – qualities that all of you have in abundance. That is very well reflected in the number of people competing this year – with eleven hundred athletes competing in athletics, swimming, gymnastics, soccer, basketball, tenpin bowling, table tennis, and equestrian events. The next few days will be full of challenge, excitement and fun.

- Special Olympics can only achieve its goals with the assistance of individual organisations and companies throughout the country. I want to take this opportunity to congratulate everybody concerned in Special Olympics Ireland – everybody who has helped to promote and make such a success of the Games. I would like also to give a special mention to Ambassador Jean Kennedy Smith – who will shortly be returning to the United States after a very successful and fruitful term as US Ambassador to Ireland – at a crucial time in our history – when the assistance given by the Government and people of the United States played such a major role in recent developments. As you know, Jean’s sister, Eunice Kennedy Shriver, was responsible for starting the Special Olympics.

- Finally, I would like to congratulate the parents and competitors, who have wholeheartedly entered into the spirit of the Games. By your courage, commitment and dedication to your sport – and by your participation in this very competitive event – you are an inspiration to all of us. In wishing you every success in the Games, I would like you to remember that the most important thing in the Special Olympics is to have fun and to make friends.