The achievement of the two Sligo members of Team Ireland in winning gold and silver medals at last week’s Special Olympics World Games in Los Angeles has been described as “extraordinary”.
Margaret Carr from Calry won a gold medal in 18 hole individual golf tournament on Thursday last, while the previous day Thomas Connolly from Coolaney took silver in equestrian events.
Margaret (54), is a member of the Fairways club at County Sligo Golf Club Ladies branch. She has been playing golf for over 15 years now. Thomas Connolly (38) is a member of the Night Riders Special Olympics Club.
Sligo County Council cathaoirleach Cllr Rosaleen O’Grady said: “They have done their county, their country, themselves and their families proud. Their achievements are extraordinary,” she said.
She said that a civic reception in their honour would be held in the council chamber in the near future.
Margaret and Thomas were part of the very successful 88-strong Team Ireland, which in all brought home 82 medals, amassing 26 gold, 28 silver and 28 bronze medals. The team also received 41 placement ribbons and secured 31 personal bests.
The team arrived into Dublin airport to a rapturous welcome on Tuesday morning.
Then that afternoon Margaret and Thomas were given a garda escort as they arrived back in County Sligo to a reception at the Connaught Special Olympics office in Collooney.
There were joyous scenes as they were welcomed home and congratulated by their families, friends and supporters.
And that night there were futher welcome home gatherings for both in their home areas.
