Team Ireland’s medal haul rises at Special Olympics

Team Ireland increased its medal haul to four at the Special Olympics in Los Angeles during day two of the games on Monday.

Speaking after the race, she said she was “very happy and proud” of her performances. “I am really enjoying the world games in Los Angeles,” she added.

The current medal haul for Team Ireland stands at three bronze and one silver. Heats are continuing across the 12 Olympic style sports that Ireland is competing in, and finals are due in the coming days.

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Seán Coleman (22) was the pick of the Irish swimmers at the University of Southern California on Sunday picking up a silver medal in the 25m backstroke at the Special Olympics World Summer Games. Photograph: Ray McManus/Sportsfile.

On Sunday, Seán Coleman (22) was the pick of the Irish swimmers at the University of Southern California, picking up a silver medal in the 25m backstroke, while Dubliner Gary McEnroe (20) won bronze in the 25m backstroke.

As well as a fourth medal on day two, the Irish team also won fourth and sixth place ribbons.

Swimmer Lorraine Hession (27), from Turloughmore, Co Galway, celebrated a fourth place ribbon in a separate final in the 100m freestyle. Ms Hession also registered a personal best in the race.

Team Ireland aquatics coach Jennifer Hughes, from Baldoyle, Dublin, said she was “thrilled” with her team’s performance.

“Lorraine and Jane swam really well today in two competitive races,” she said. “I’m delighted with their performances and am really proud of them.”

The sixth place ribbon was won by the Team Ireland bowling players in the team event.

Special Olympics Ireland chief executive Matt English said the team was continuing to put in “great performances” across all 12 sports.

“The atmosphere in every venue has been fantastic and the travelling Irish support is certainly helping our athletes rise to the occasion,” he said.

“I know that the Irish public at home is cheering on every medal and personal best and joining us in celebrating this fantastic event.”

A 40-strong coaching and management team are supporting the Irish athletes in Los Angeles, with 155 Team Ireland volunteers working at the games. Over 300 family members have also made the trip to support the team.