Campbell honours Beijing Athletes

Sports Minister Gregory Campbell MP MLA has recognised the achievements of the 2008 Olympians and Paralympians during a reception at Stormont.

During a special reception held this evening in Parliament Buildings, Minister Campbell said: “The people of Northern Ireland and I are proud of the achievements of all the athletes who competed at the Beijing Games. It is my hope that their performances will inspire people from all walks of life to take up sport and enjoy the benefits that it has to offer.

“The athletes’ dedication has shown that anything is possible and as minister with responsibility for sport, I am doing everything I can to encourage everyone in Northern Ireland to participate in sport and have an opportunity to compete at the highest levels. They don’t come much bigger than the Olympic and Paralympic Games.

“Athletes such as Wendy Houvenaghal, Paddy Barnes and Michael McKillop are an inspiration to us all and the achievements of Jason Smyth have instilled a sense of pride in the people of Northern Ireland.

The minister highlighted the capital programmes which are being managed by Sport NI on behalf of DCAL, which will improve the sporting infrastructure not just for the elite athletes but for all the people of Northern Ireland.

The minister concluded: “Looking to the future, we are at the beginning of an exciting four year journey as we now steer towards the London 2012 Olympics. Elite facilities such as the olympic sized swimming pool in North Down will encourage teams to consider Northern Ireland as a base for training and will also leave a lasting legacy that all people of Northern Ireland can enjoy.

“As chairman of the Northern Ireland 2012 Leadership Group which is responsible for the NI strategy for the 2012 Games, I can assure you that work has already begun to ensure that we in Northern Ireland get as much benefit as possible from the London 2012 Games. I am sure that some of the athletes here tonight have already set their sights on London for 2012 and I hope to see you there and have no doubt that once more, Northern Ireland will be celebrating."

Notes to Editors:

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