Gala joins Irish Special Olympics team for Winter Games squad reveal

Gala joins Irish Special Olympics team for Winter Games squad reveal

Special Olympics Ireland were joined by sponsor Gala Retail for the announcement of the Team Ireland squad that will be competing at the Special Olympics World Winter Games 2017.

A total of 26 athletes from across Ireland have been selected to represent the country at the World Winter Games which will take place in Austria in March of next year.

Throughout the year, members of the Gala team and Gala wholesalers have been attending events across the country to watch the athletes in action and to present the athletes with awards for their performances.

Gala are also sending a representative to the Special Olympics World Winter Games this year. Regional operations executive Catriona Conlon became a Special Olympics volunteer and will join Team Ireland in Austria.

Gala’s four-year partnership has seen Gala sponsor the Area Games and also be a sponsor for the Ireland Winter Games in 2016 and in 2017. Gala will continue with the athletes on their journey to the Regional and World Winter Games in 2017 and progressing to the European Games in 2018. In 2019, Gala will partner with Special Olympics Ireland to help to fund Team Ireland’s participation at the World Summer Games.

Speaking at Team Ireland’s Launch, Gary Desmond, CEO of Gala Retail said: “Gala’s association with Special Olympics Ireland in 2016 has been fantastic. The Area events that have taken place throughout the year provided the ideal opportunity for Gala employees and wholesalers to visit and meet the athletes.

“We are thrilled to be continuing our journey with Team Ireland to the Special Olympics World Winter Games and we wish all of the 26 athletes representing Team Ireland the very best of luck in the events. We are backing them every step of the way.”

Speaking at Team Ireland’s launch, Matt English, Chief Executive, Special Olympics Ireland, added: “Today’s launch represents hard work, commitment and dedication. I am extremely proud of the 26 athletes who will represent both their country and their local communities at the 2017 World Winter Games next March.

“The commitments from our ongoing partners like Gala ensure that our athletes will realise their dreams and demonstrate to the world their extraordinary and inspiring talents.”