THE kids of St Maelruain’s National School in Tallaght received a very special visit recently when they took possession of the Special Olympics Ireland Games Torch of Hope.
The Special Olympics Ireland Law Enforcement Torch Run (LETR) competition is inviting primary schools across the country to be in with the chance of winning a visit from the Flame of Hope and its fanfare of athletes, ambassadors and media.
The Torch Run is a key event which raises funds and awareness for the Special Olympic Ireland Games.
The games offer an opportunity for athletes of all ages to reach their full sporting potential and become part of a growing community in the process.
The Ireland Games take place from June 14 to 17 when over 1,600 athletes from all over Ireland come to Dublin to compete in 14 sports, from football and swimming to gymnastics and bowling.
Representatives from Special Olympics Ireland visited St Maelruain’s National School to see how they are supporting Special Olympics athletes.
The pupils were keen to share their knowledge of the games and got an opportunity to examine and hold the Special Olympics Flame of Hope.
Bella, who celebrated her 5th birthday on the day of the video shoot, correctly guessed that it was “something people use outside” and not a rocket or firework as guessed by her classmates!
Principal Helen Molloy highlighted the similarities between the school ethos and Special Olympics.
“St Maelruain’s has a very strong ethos and belief that we are all equal but we have different needs,” she said.
“This competition and Special Olympics has very much the same values.”