Ireland’s Special Olympians returned home to Dublin Airport to an ecstatic crowd.
In total, Irish athletes won 75 medals and their friends, family and fans could not have been prouder of them.
“I’m so proud to be Irish right now,” one woman told Newstalk reporter Henry McKean.
“It’s great to be here and the atmosphere is amazing.”
Jenna Carthy won gold as part of the women’s basketball team and her two great aunts were keen to see her return home
“Over the moon,” one said.
“She’s such a special person in our lives.”
Caitríona Daly, sister of Eoin who won gold in bocce, said the atmosphere was “absolutely electric” and “the best experience of our lives.”
The family’s mother died recently but Ms Daly said she knew she was there is spirit.
“She died suddenly just over a year ago, so it was a big shock to us all,” she said.
“Eoin and herself were like two peas in a pod.
“So, we definitely know she was shining down on him and us.
“We’re super proud.”
Regina, another of Eoin’s sisters, said the experience had been “so emotional”.
“We’re so proud of him and I know Mammy would be too,” she said.
The DAA’s Graeme McQueen said the atmosphere was likely nothing he had ever experienced before.
“The arrival hall at Dublin Airport is always special but today is extra special,” he said.
“I think that’s one of the best homecomings I’ve ever seen at Dublin Airport.
“It’s phenomenal.”
Gymnast Jonny McCartney, who won seven medals, said he felt “very proud” of his achievements.
“I worked around about two years for this, so actually holding them in my hand is a good feeling,” he said.
Mr McCarthey is 19-years-old and plans on celebrating when he returns to his home near Lisburn.
“I’ll probably just have my family and all that over and have a wee house party,” he said.
The next Special Olympics will take place in 2027.
Main image: Homecoming for the Special Olympians
