Support An Athlete Launch

The launch of the 'Support An Athlete' campaign will be held in the Welcome Inn Hotel, Castlebar on Thursday, February 15 next at 8pm. 

The campaign, which was recently launched nationwide by Special Olympics Ireland, will be held over the months of February, March and April this year to support the 11,000 athletes and 18,000 volunteers nationally. 

In order to continue to deliver the high standard of service to existing new athletes and volunteers, the organisation needs to raise €5 million in 2007. Mary Davis, CEO of Special Olympics Ireland will perform the launch here in Mayo. 

Special Olympics

Companies, schools, organisations, sporting bodies and individuals will be asked to fundraise and/or make donations to 'Support An Athlete' in order to make it possible for a local person with a learning disability to participate in Special Olympics in their own community. 

John O'Shaughnessy has recently been appointed as Mayo Co-Ordinator for the 2007 'Support An Athlete' campaign. A committee has been set up and the new chairman is Richie Heraty and secretary Toni Burke as well as numerous other members. The group are currently organising fundraising activities which will be held throughout the coming weeks. 

There are currently over 27 Special Olympics clubs in Mayo with over 360 athletes. Mr O'Shaughnessy is well known and has been involved in fundraising for a number of years. In 2002, he was involved in the Special Olympics Host Town committee programme and organised the reception on the Mall for the torch bearers. In 2004, he was appointed Chairman of Mayo RTE People In Need Telethon. 

Anyone wishing to organise a fundraiser or become part of the committee for the 2007 'Support an Athlete' campaign can contact John on 087-2890533. Any support from either individuals or groups or business would be greatly appreciated. 

A office for the duration of the campaign has been opened at Linenhall St and anyone looking for information can contact the office on 094-9044565. 

The organisation is encouraging members of the public to raise funds which will help Special Olympics Ireland to continue its efforts to resource the programme and to recruit new athletes. Over 20,000 Support and Athlete packs will be distributed and will be available to download at www.specialolympics.ie . In relation to fundraising by local clubs, the organisation is guaranteeing a 50% return on any funds raise, regardless of whether the overall target is reached or not. 

All are welcome to the launch of the campaign.