Killarney gathered on Monday night to give a homecoming welcome to the Kerry Stars Special Olympics Sports Club athletes following their successful performance at the Special Olympics Ireland Games in Dublin.

The games, which took place from June 18 to June 21, saw local athletes secure six gold medals alongside multiple silver and bronze finishes.

The club highlighted the hard work, dedication, and team spirit shown by the competitors week after week.

Alongside the competing athletes, club members Pat, Jane, Cliona, and Siobhan travelled to Dublin to provide support, while Denise, Liam, and Cathleen served as official athletics volunteers at the national event.

The club expressed gratitude to all coaches, volunteers, and members whose regular commitment of time enables local athletes to compete at the highest level.

The homecoming celebrations in Killarney were supported by the Gardaí, Radio Kerry, and Minister Norma Foley, with the staff at the Plaza Hotel hosting the post-games victory celebrations.

The club also extended thanks to the individuals and groups who supported their recent fundraising journey.

This included Elma and the staff at the Credit Union for hosting a coffee morning, Nessa from the Kilcummin GAA Hall, John in the bar, and Annmarie for her assistance with the table quiz.

Further appreciation was sent to Madeline and the Killarney St Patrick's Day Dunk Tank Committee and participants, the Abblefest Committee for showcasing the athletes by opening their festival, and the Opel Vauxhall Manta Fest.

Kerry Stars Competition Results

Caoimhe Brosnan (Kilcummin): Gold in 25m freestyle swim, Silver in 25m backstroke swim, Bronze in 25m relay.
Sophie Twiss (Milltown): Gold in 25m relay, Silver in 25m freestyle, Silver in 25m backstroke.
Luke Scollard (Scartaglen): Gold in 25m shot putt, Gold in relay race, Silver in 200m run.
Joe Buckley (Faha): Gold in 100m run, 4th place ribbon in mini javelin, 4th place ribbon in relay race.