Welcoming the athletes, officials and representatives from the PSNI, who brought the flame of hope to the reception, Sports Minister Edwin Poots said: “Participation in what promises to be the largest ever Special Olympics World Summer Games is a wonderful opportunity for all our athletes. Not only will it be an opportunity to compete at the highest level, it will also be an opportunity to experience the various cultures of not only China but of some of the other countries competing in the Games.
“Sport in both Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland has always brought out the best in our communities. We all celebrate when our sportsmen and women are successful.”
“I am encouraged by the number of athletes here this evening. However, we need to build on this and seek to facilitate the development of all who wish to compete in sport. I hope to make a statement to the Assembly in the near future about a new draft Sports Strategy for Northern Ireland which will contribute to shaping the future of sport here. This can only help our sportsmen and women to further success.”
The Minister continued: “The theme of this year’s Games, ‘I know I can’ is something that we can all learn from. It is a theme that you should be proud of and if more of us adopted this attitude in our lives, it would go some way to making the world a better place. For my part, I know that you will do all that you can to achieve your own individual personal targets when competing in the Games.
“In addition to the theme for the Games, the Special Olympics Oath, ‘Let me win, but if I cannot win, let me be brave in the attempt,’ is also very significant and is an oath some of our professional sports stars should consider sharing.”
Edwin Poots paid tribute to the work of all the coaches, volunteers and families travelling to Shanghai who have given of their time freely and offered his best wishes to all members of the team.
The Minister concluded: “My best wishes for every success go to the athletes. I look forward to hearing about your achievements and sincerely hope that you all achieve your own personal objectives and bring home a few more medals for your collections.”
Notes to Editors:
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