Swimmers make splash in Lisburn

Over 130 athletes from across Ulster descended upon the Lisburn LeisurePlex last Friday and Saturday, each competing for the chance to represent Ulster at the Special Olympics Ireland Games next year.
A Special Olympics Ulster athlete takes to the pool to compete in Special Olympics Ulsters regional aquatics event, which was held in Lisburn recently (Friday 31st May and Saturday 1st June). Picture by Darren Kidd /Presseye.comA Special Olympics Ulster athlete takes to the pool to compete in Special Olympics Ulsters regional aquatics event, which was held in Lisburn recently (Friday 31st May and Saturday 1st June). Picture by Darren Kidd /Presseye.com
A Special Olympics Ulster athlete takes to the pool to compete in Special Olympics Ulsters regional aquatics event, which was held in Lisburn recently (Friday 31st May and Saturday 1st June). Picture by Darren Kidd /Presseye.com

Some 136 athletes from 18 Special Olympics Clubs throughout Ulster came together to compete in Special Olympics Ulster’s regional aquatics event.

During the two days of tough competition, participants took part in over 20 events including the 50 metre butterfly, 400 metre free style and team relay races. As well as aiming to finish top of their events on the day, athletes were also battling it out for the chance to be selected to take part in the Ireland Games in 2014, which could pave the way for them to compete on the international stage at the Special Olympics World Summer Games in Los Angeles in 2015.

Commenting on the event, Shaun Cassidy, regional director of Special Olympics Ulster said: “To see over 130 athletes from across Ulster come together for the aquatics event in Lisburn is really fantastic.

“The high standard of competition shown at the aquatics event is testament to the hard work and dedication of each and every individual taking part. I would like to congratulate all the athletes who competed at the event and wish them continued success going forward.”

Supporting local athletes in their sporting success is central to the work of Special Olympics Ulster, which currently supports over 2,043 athletes. For further information on events please contact 028 9023 9023.

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