Conor and ross special olympics european games winners

Special Olympians Conor Dwyer from Birr and Ross O’Connor from Tullamore both arrived back in Offaly last Sunday as heroes, after winning gold in the 2014 Special Olympics European Games. 

Thirteen-year-old Conor, a member of Camcor Warriors Special Olympics Club, took the top spot in swimming, while 18-year-old Ross was a member of the Irish seven-a-side soccer team that beat Israel to win gold in its competition

“It was unbelievable,” Conor’s mother Suzanne told the Offaly Independent, describing Conor’s win. “It was a fantastic achievement for him. He was one of the youngest competing, and was swimming against people in their late 20s.” 

Conor, who was coached locally by Tracey Milne, had lots of support at the games that were held in Antwerp, Belgium, with his parents Suzanne and Michael travelling to cheer him on along with his brothers Stephen, Barry and David and extended family and friends too.

Secretary of Tullamore Special Olympics Club Sheila Foy was full of praise for club member Ross meanwhile. A member of the club for just two years, the Tullamore native was greeted home to Ireland last Sunday by “a bus load” and “a piper too”, before returning to the Bridge House Hotel for a meal.

“To watch Ross bloom in the last two years was amazing,” Sheila said, adding that his mother Jackie described her joy as greater than winning the lotto.

Special mention must also be given to Ross’ coaches Joe Connolly and Leslie Francis, she added, as well as to Leah Victoria Park for their facilities.

In all Team Ireland won a total of 57 medals at the games that lasted six days and featured 2,000 athletes from 58 countries. On top of the team’s gold, silver and bronze haul, 31 placement ribbons were also awarded to Irish athletes in what was one of the most successful Irish showings at the European Games to date.​